How To Clean Out A Slow Draining Bathroom Sink

If you find your bathroom sink slowly draining or backing up with water, it's time to clean out the drain. A clogged drain is a common problem that can be a nuisance and lead to larger plumbing issues if it's left unchecked. Fortunately, cleaning out a slow-draining bathroom sink is a relatively easy task that can be done in just a few steps.

1. Gather Your Supplies

Before you start cleaning out the drain, you'll need to gather a few supplies. These include:

A plunger
A drain snake
A bucket or container to catch any water that comes out of the drain
Baking soda and vinegar (optional)
Commercial drain cleaner (optional)

2. Use a Plunger

The first step is to try using a plunger to clear the clog. Place the plunger over the drain and push and pull it up and down vigorously. This can help to loosen the clog and break it up so that it can drain away. If you have a double sink, be sure to plug the other drain before you start plunging. This will help to create a better seal and make the plunging more effective.

3. Use a Drain Snake

If the plunger doesn't work, you can try using a drain snake. A drain snake is a long, flexible cable with a hook or auger on the end. Insert the drain snake into the drain and turn the handle to feed the cable down. Once you reach the clog, use the hook or auger to break it up. If you don't have a drain snake, you can try using a coat hanger. Just straighten out the coat hanger and insert it into the drain.

4. Use Baking Soda and Vinegar

If the clog is still not cleared, you can try using baking soda and vinegar. Pour a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by a cup of vinegar. Cover the drain with a plug or cloth to prevent the solution from coming back up. Let the solution sit for at least 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, pour a pot of boiling water down the drain. This should help to dissolve the clog and clear the drain.

5. Use Commercial Drain Cleaner

If the clog is still not cleared, you can try using a commercial drain cleaner. Be sure to read the label carefully before using the drain cleaner. Some drain cleaners can be corrosive and can damage your pipes if they are not used properly. Pour the drain cleaner down the drain according to the directions on the label. Let the drain cleaner sit for the amount of time specified on the label, then rinse the drain with hot water.

6. Prevent Future Clogs

The best way to prevent future clogs is to pour regularly, boiling water down the drain. This will help flush out the drain and remove any buildup that could lead to a clog. You can also try using a drain screen to catch hair and other debris before it can get into the drain. If you have a garbage disposal, be sure to run it after every use to grind up food scraps and prevent them from clogging the drain.