There are many ways to unblock a blocked sink using natural methods and resources. These methods of dealing with a Blocked Drain are easy to perform and need materials that are found around the home. Here at Optimised Plumbing Services, we offer expert plumbers who will reliably clear any clogged sink in efficient times.
The natural and effective ways to unblock a blocked sink are:
- Boiling water
- Baking soda and vinegar
- Baking soda and salt
- Wire hanger method
- Wet and dry vacuum method
What are Natural Ways to Unblock a Sink?
1. Boiling Water
Boiling water is a cheap, easy and effective way to clear a blocked sink. Boiling water is especially effective at unblocking bathroom sink blockages as the build up of soap scum can be easily melted. When there is a slow drain issue and water sits in the sink easily then boiling water is also an effective method to combat the clog.
One kettle should be filled up with water to handle this drain blockage issue. Pour the hot water down the drain slowly in three or four different sections or stages. To know if the boiling water has removed the drainage system blockage then the sink should be cleared immediately. When the boiling water has not been enough to clear the sink blockage then the next methods should be followed.
2. Baking Soda with Vinegar
This is one of the most effective ways to clear a blocked sink using natural methods. Baking soda withed with vinegar strongly reacts and eats away any clogs inside the sink. It is also easy to follow and requires resources that are often already present in the house. The solution will be great for all sink blockages, in particular laundry sinks where fabric and washing detergent might build up.
One-third of a cup of baking soda and vinegar is needed to perform the sink drain cleaning. Pour each solution into the drain opening one at a time and should be performed slowly. Fizzing will occur as the two react and should be left for 15 minutes. After, rinse the drain with boiling water and test to see if the baking soda and vinegar method has cleared the sink blockage.
3. Baking Soda with Salt
If vinegar is not available or wanting to be used then baking soda with salt is a good alternative. The two will react similarly to baking soda and vinegar and cause grime, hair and other clogs to dissolve. Half a cup of baking soda and salt should be poured down the drain and left to combat the clog for fifteen minutes.
Boiling water should follow this after the time has gone to further help unclog the sink. This is a powerful chemical reaction so it is a great way to remove clogs that are inside the sink.
4. Wire Hanger Method
When chemicals and solutions have been used but cannot unclog the sink then the wire hanger method can be used. This involves using a bent coat hanger wire to scoop out and break clogs inside the pipes. The water needs to be turned off and different parts of the sink will be cleaned with the wire. The stopper should be removed first from under the sink and be cleaned of any blockages.
After the stopper has been cleaned the inside of the sink and pipes should be targeted next. The wire should be bent to create a hook and will be used to grab and break stubborn blockages. Hair and gunk will be easily removed through this method using an at-home plumber’s drain snake.
5. Wet and Dry Vacuum
When clogs are difficult to handle then a wet and dry vacuum can be used to remove the clog from the drains. A seal needs to be created for the hose to make the suctioning more effective. The vacuum should be set at the highest liquid setting and allow it to run for a few minutes to suction the clogs. This is a good method for targeting deeper clogs in the sink pipes that are harder to reach.
How Can I Avoid Sink Blockages?
There are many ways to prevent a blocked sink including:
- Disposing of grease, oil and similar items not down the sink and into other places
- Prevent coffee grounds from entering the sink and instead throw them in the garbage
- Installing a drain-gate or screen to help stop soap scum, food debris and other potential blockages from entering the sink
- Limit the amount of hair that enters the sink when possible
- Perform regular drain cleaning tasks to help maintain the drain’s health
For ‘5 ways to clean a drain in 10 minutes’ our blog is a perfect read to know these methods.
Reliable Blocked Drain Plumbers Unblocking Any Sink
When needing professional plumbers to help clear a blocked sink then Optimised Plumbing Services is the one to contact. We will work with all types of sinks, from bathroom, kitchen to laundry sinks. Our fully qualified plumbers will be able to combat any type of clog as well and ensure it is correctly removed from the drain.
We offer professional Emergency Plumber services as well for us to resolve any plumbing emergency, including blocked drains at any time. Our team works across all of Sydney, including the Northern Beaches, North Shore and Inner West.
For trusted blocked sink services – contact Optimised Plumbing Services on 02 8074 1475!
