How to Unclog a Sink: 10 Expert Tips

Clogged sinks are a common problem in every home—but they don’t have to be a constant headache. From simple DIY tricks to signs it’s time to call a professional, we asked plumbing and home experts for their best advice. In this Redfin article, experts share 10 must-know tips for safely and effectively unclogging your sink—whether you’re dealing with a clogged bathroom sink in a Craftsman home in Portland, OR or a backed-up kitchen drain in a modern home in Austin, TX.

1. Start simple with hot water and a plunger

“If your sink is slow to drain, try using a plunger followed by lots of hot water—it’s a safe and effective first step for minor clogs,” says Ciriello Plumbing. “This combo works especially well in bathroom sinks where buildup tends to be lighter. Just avoid using chemical drain cleaners, which can corrode pipes and complicate future repairs.”

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2. Try a natural baking soda and vinegar mix

“One of the simplest ways to clear a clogged sink is by using a mix of baking soda and vinegar, followed by hot water,” says Neighborhood Plumbing & Drain. “This method is gentle on pipes and surprisingly effective for mild blockages. Just be cautious with chemical cleaners, especially if you’re on a septic system—they can do more harm than good.”

3. Avoid chemical quick fixes

“Chemical drain cleaners might seem like a quick fix, but they can damage your plumbing and lead to bigger problems later,” warns Red One Plumbing. “Instead, try a plunger or a snake first. For minor clogs, even hot water can do the trick.”

4. Use a drain snake for stubborn clogs

“For more stubborn blockages, we recommend starting with baking soda and vinegar, then following up with a drain snake to reach deeper debris,” says Best Bond Clean Gold Coast. “This method breaks up grease or soap scum naturally and avoids damaging your plumbing. If plunging or snaking doesn’t work and multiple drains are affected, it’s time to bring in a professional.”

5. Try professional-grade tools for tough blockages

“To tackle tougher sink clogs, use a professional-grade drain cleaner or snake to dislodge the blockage,” recommends North Point Rentals. “Feed the cable slowly into the pipe and rotate until you feel resistance, then keep going until it clears. Finish by flushing with hot water.”

6. Disassemble P-trap if needed

“For blockages near the P-trap, a hand-held snake or even disassembling the slip joint pipes can work,” says Ace Hardware Home Services. “Just be prepared for a bit of a mess. If the clog is deeper, though, you’ll want a professional to assess it.”

7. Know when to bring in a pro

“If water is backing up in other fixtures, multiple drains are slow, or the clog keeps returning, it’s time to call a plumber,” explains Cleaning Tactics. “These symptoms usually signal a deeper issue in your main line or pipes that a DIY fix won’t reach.”

8. Understand what’s causing the clog

“Kitchen sink clogs are usually from grease and food scraps, while bathroom clogs are more likely from hair, soap, or improper flushing,” notes Mrs. Michael. “Understanding what’s causing the blockage helps you choose the right solution and prevent it in the future.”

9. Build smart habits to prevent future issues

“In the kitchen, avoid pouring grease down the drain and use strainers to catch debris,” says Dubai Housekeeping. “In the bathroom, flush drains with hot water regularly and clean hair from stoppers. These small steps go a long way.”

10. Be cautious of ‘flushable’ products

“Even though some products are labeled flushable, they often still cause problems,” shares Swan’s Professional Plumbing. “To avoid clogs, stick to toilet paper only and never flush wipes, cotton pads, or similar items. Prevention really is your best line of defense.”

Stay clog-free with smart habits and early action

Clogs are easiest to handle when caught early—and often preventable with small adjustments to your routine. Start with the least invasive methods and escalate only as needed. If DIY steps don’t work or multiple drains are affected, a professional plumber can diagnose and resolve the problem safely.