Go Back

How to Unclog a Bathroom Sink

Posted on April 29, 2022 by

To unclog a bathroom sink, you need to know the basics of how the sink works and what type of clog you are dealing with. There are a few methods that can be used to clear a clogged sink, depending on the cause of the blockage. One method is to use a plunger. You may also use a drain snake, tweeze hair, or vinegar and baking soda.

How to Unclog a Bathroom Sink

What do you do when your bathroom sink becomes clogged? Well, before you start calling a plumber, there are a few things you can try yourself. In this article, we will walk you through the steps of how to unclog a bathroom sink. However, if your bathroom sink is completely clogged, you need to call a professional like Titan Plumbing And Electric.

What Causes Clogs in Your Bathroom Sink?

There are a few different reasons why your bathroom sink might become clogged.

Hair

One common cause is hair. When hair accumulates in the drain, it can create a blockage. Grease and other oils can also accumulate and cause a clog. Toilet paper or other feminine hygiene products can also get caught in the drain and cause a blockage. You can use long tweezers to remove the item causing the clog, but be careful not to push it further down the drain.

Broken Pipes

Another common cause of a clogged bathroom sink is a broken pipe. If the water can't flow freely through the pipes, it will back up and cause a clog. A plunger or drain snake can be used to clear the blockage, but you will need to call a plumber to fix the broken pipe.

Objects in the Drain

Sometimes small objects like toothpicks or Q-tips can accidentally fall down the drain and get stuck. This can also cause a clog. Try removing them with a plunger or drain snake.

Something Stuck in P-Trap

If the clog is not in the drain but further down the pipe, it might be something that is stuck in the p-trap. The p-trap is a U-shaped section of pipe located below the sink. This is where most of the clogs occur. You have to disconnect and clean out your bathroom sink P-Trap to get rid of the clog.

Soap Scum

If the water in your area is hard, it can cause soap scum to build up on the sides of the drain. This will also cause a clog. You can use baking soda and vinegar or a pot of hot water to help clear the scum.

How to Unclog a Bathroom Sink

Now that you know what can cause your bathroom sink to become clogged, let's take a look at how to unclog it. If the cause of the clog is one of those mentioned above, then apply the recommended method to overcome the problem. Otherwise, use the steps below in the order outlined.

Use Baking Soda And White Vinegar

  1. Unscrew the drain cover and detach the sink stopper.
  2. Get a 1/2 cup of baking soda and 1 cup of white vinegar.
  3. Sprinkle the baking soda into the drain.
  4. Next, pour the white vinegar into the drain.
  5. Leave the mixture in the drain until fizzing stops. This usually takes a few minutes.
  6. Pour hot water down the drain.
  7. Repeat the process several times.

Remove Hair Clog

  1. Remove the sink stopper.
  2. Look into the drain with a flashlight.
  3. Use long-nosed tweezers to remove any hair down there.
  4. If you can't see any hair, try using a zip-it tool or wire hanger to clean out any hair.
  5. Move your zip-it tool or hanger up and down the drain but don't force it.
  6. Try to move the tool around the drain at different angles. This will help get more hair.
  7. Repeat the process a few times and rinse with hot water.

Plunge

  1. A cup plunger is ideal for this task.
  2. Remove the sink stopper.
  3. Cover the sink overflow outlet with a piece of cloth or tape.
  4. Place rags on the floor all around the sink.
  5. Pour warm water into the sink until it is full.
  6. Create an airtight seal over the drain with the plunger cup.
  7. Using quick movements, pump the plunger's seal up and down a few times.
  8. Check to see if you've unclogged the drain.
  9. Repeat several times for the desired result.

The P-Trap

  1. With your rubber gloves on, start by placing a bucket under your P-Trap.
  2. Loosen the slip nuts. You may do this by hand or with pliers.
  3. Remove the P-Trap and pour the water into the bucket.
  4. Remove grime or any object stuck in the P-Trap.
  5. Clean the trap thoroughly using a bristle brush.
  6. Couple the P-Trap and check if the drain is clear.

Snake

  1. It is preferred to use automated drain snakes.
  2. You should place rags under the sink.
  3. Remove the stopper.
  4. Manually thread the snake into the wall drain.
  5. Use the snake handle to uncoil it.
  6. Rotate the head up and down and back and forth to when you get to the clog.
  7. Take out the snake and organize your sink.
  8. Test the drain.

Disassemble The Drain

To disassemble your sink drain, do the following;

  1. Shut off the water and disconnect the supply line.
  2. Remove the drain cover.
  3. Detach the sink stopper.
  4. Unscrew the slip nuts and remove the P-trap.
  5. Remove the U-bend and clean it with a brush.
  6. Rinse everything off and reattach in reverse order.
  7. If you're still having trouble unclogging your bathroom sink, it's time to call in a professional.

Let Us Unclog Your Bathroom Sink

If the methods above haven't worked for you, it's time to call in a professional. Titan Plumbing And Electric is here to help. We have experienced plumbers who can quickly and easily unclog your bathroom sink. Contact us today at (813) 933-8010!