How to Unclog a Kitchen Sink

A clogged kitchen sink drain is not anyone’s idea of fun. Whether it’s a slow drain situation or a fully clogged backup, at some point, you or someone you know will find themselves in the unfortunate situation of contending with a clogged kitchen sink drain that's too tough for drain cleaner. Things can get even more complicated if the source of the kitchen clog is an important item that was accidentally lodged in the drain that you hope to get back. Luckily, we have tips on how to unclog a kitchen sink, no matter what you’re dealing with.

The Main Options for How to Unclog a Kitchen Sink Drain

Before calling your local Roto-Rooter plumber, here is how to unclog a kitchen sink on your own:

• Option 1 – DIY drain cleaner
• Option 2 – Using a sink plunger
• Option 3 – Wire coat hanger
• Option 4 – Drain snake
• Option 5 – Shop-Vac
  
  

1. DIY Drain Cleaner: How To Unclog a Double Kitchen Sink With Standing Water

Chemical drain cleaners can be expensive and aren't always good for you or the environment. You can use vinegar and baking soda for an environmentally-friendly solution. Follow these steps:

1. Remove kitchen sink stopper or drain cover
2. Pour ½ cup of baking soda in drain
3. Pour 1 cup of white vinegar in drain
4. Wait 10 minutes and then chase it with boiling water.
5. Consider flushing the cleared drain with PipeShield or another pipe cleaner to protect the line from future clogs.

Often, the ensuing chemical reaction from your at-home solution is enough to dissolve the slow drain and repair your clogged drain. You may even want to use these as part of your regular kitchen maintenance every so often, as it’s great for getting rid of sink stink.

2. Plunger: How to Unclog a Kitchen Sink With Standing Water

Everyone needs to know how to unclog a kitchen sink with standing water. Using a plunger is your best bet in this scenario. Always remember to use a kitchen plunger rather than a bathroom plunger to avoid the spread of germs. Follow the steps below:

1. If you have a double sink, plug up the sink drain on the opposite side of the sink with a wet rag to aid in delivering pressure directly to the clog.
2. Fill the clogged side of the sink with a small amount of water for the plunger.
3. Begin plunging away (remember it's all about the up motion, not pushing down). Hopefully, any food or paper products locked in the pipes will budge when you do this.
   
   

3. Wire Coat Hanger: How to Unclog a Kitchen Sink Without a Plunger

Wondering how to unclog a kitchen sink without a plunger?

1. Turn a wire coat hanger into an impromptu pipe cleaner:
2. Bend a small hook onto the end using pliers
3. Insert the coat hanger and wiggle it up and down to try to dislodge any food that may be caught in the pipe.
4. Caution: Do not stick equipment or appendages into a garbage disposal without first cutting the fuse.
   
   

4. Drain Snake: How to Unclog a Kitchen Sink With a Garbage Disposal

There is a chance that the clog is farther down the drain, whereby none of the above methods will work. For example, they work well if you want to know how to unclog a kitchen sink with grease that’s stuck out of reach. If this is the case, then follow these steps:

1. Run a drain snake down the kitchen drain.
2. If that still doesn't work, you may have to take the trap beneath the sink apart, and snake the drain more directly. This requires a bit of hands-on effort, so you may want to wear rubber gloves.
3. Be sure to place a bucket beneath the trap to catch any dirty water.
4. Finally, you can begin snaking the drain.
   
   

5. Use A Wet Vacuum Or “Shop Vac”: How to Unclog a Kitchen Sink to Recover Jewelry

Wet and dry vacuums are powerful appliances with a lot of suction.

1. Set a wet vacuum to "liquids" and cover the vent.
2. Remember to create a very tight seal around the drain and cover the overflow tube with a finger or rag.

The power of a wet vacuum can often be enough to draw the clogged material up and unclog the drain. Check the bag for hair and grease in order to identify the source of the clog. A wet vacuum can also work well when trying to recover jewelry from a drain.

Last Step: Call In A Professional Plumber

When you've exhausted all remediation efforts to fix your clogged drain, you know it's time to call a licensed plumber. Don't hesitate to contact your local Roto-Rooter at 800-768-6911. They certainly won't hesitate to head over and unclog your drain.

FAQs on How to Unclog a Sink in Your Kitchen

How can I unclog a kitchen sink effectively?

Start by removing any visible debris and using a plunger to clear the blockage. A drain snake can reach deeper clogs. A professional plumber can remove buildup safely without damaging pipes.

What’s the most powerful way to clear a blocked drain?

Motorized drain snakes or hydro-jetting are the most effective for tough clogs. These tools can remove grease, hair, and debris far more efficiently than chemical cleaners or DIY methods.

How do I clear a kitchen sink that’s full of standing water?

Try using a flange plunger designed for sinks, not toilets, to dislodge the clog. If that doesn’t work, a drain snake or professional service may be necessary.

Is it safe to pour boiling water down the drain?

Boiling water can help dissolve grease in metal pipes, but it may damage PVC or older pipes. Use caution and only try it for mild clogs. Persistent blockages usually need a plumber.