Dealing with a slow-draining sink can be a nuisance. Luckily, there are a few things you can do to solve the problem on your own. Here are a few remedies to try when your sink is draining slowly.
Why Your Sink is Slow Draining
While slow-draining sinks can be caused by a few different things, they usually only cause minor problems. But that doesn’t make them any less annoying. Most slow-draining sinks are caused by the buildup of everyday materials. In a bathroom, this can mean sinks are clogged with toothpaste, soap, hair, and other debris. While in the kitchen, the clogs are usually the culprit of food particles. In more serious cases, a slow-draining sink can be caused by tree roots growing into the sewer line.
No matter what the cause, when a sink drains slowly, it can take twice the amount of time to complete a task because you have to wait for the water to drain out. And that’s not a fun time when you’re trying to do chores or clean yourself up in the morning. Luckily, when the slow drain is caused by a minor clog, you can fix them yourself.
Slow Draining Sink Fixes
Clean the Stopper
Sometimes, what’s causing the sink to drain slowly in your bathroom is the stopper. Hair and dirt can build up on the gasket, causing a blockage that will stop water from easily going down the drain. Taking out the stopper and cleaning it is a good place to start. However, don’t just yank the stopper out or you’ll damage it. To properly remove and clean it, you need to look under the sink.
Most stoppers feature a nut to lock it in place, so you need to get a wrench and remove the nut. This should allow you to remove the stopper from most sinks. Once it’s out, you can remove all the hair, dirt, gunk, and debris. While you’re at it, make sure to rinse the stopper in hot water to kill potential mold growth. Once you’re done, put the stopper back in.
Use a Zip-It
A zip-it tool is a cheap, often plastic tool that you can insert down a pipe to remove objects clogging the drain. They won’t be able to get everything, but they are great at getting out bundles of hair and bundles of debris. Another plus: it’s an affordable option to try and get your sink to drain properly.
All you need to do is wiggle it around and feel for the spot causing the issue. Then you can remove the gunk with the small hooks on the zip-it. Run hot water after you’re done to see if the problem is solved. If the sink doesn’t drain properly after multiple attempts, it’s time to try a different method.
Use a Plunger
Plungers aren’t only for your toilet. They can be a handy tool to have around to help fix a backed-up drain. You can go out and buy a sink plunger, which will be smaller to fit your sink better, but using a plunger you have on hand is fine as well. Just be sure it’s clean and has a flat bottom.
Before you begin, cover the overflow hole with a rag. Pressure builds when you plunge something, and a rag will prevent water from being shot out of the hole. Next, fill the sink with hot water until it covers the cup of the plunger. Then, plunge the sink as you would a toilet, using quick, small movements. Repeat this process until the water drains freely.
Break it Down with Homemade Drain Cleaner
When the other options aren’t cutting it, you might need a dissolving agent to do some of the heavy lifting for you. But don’t run out and buy those harsh chemical cleaners from the store. Using them can corrode your pipes and lead to a lot bigger problems than a slow-draining sink. Instead, use baking soda and vinegar to break down the debris.
First, remove any standing water from your sink. Pour one cup of baking soda down the drain (use a spoon to push all the powder down if necessary). Then, pour one cup of white vinegar down right after. Place a stopper or cover on the drain to seal the opening, and let the mixture sit for 15 minutes. After, remove the cover and pour a pot of boiling water down the drain to break up things even further.
Contact Wyman Plumbing & Mechanical
If none of these DIY methods work to fix your slow-draining sink, you could have a more serious clog or issue on your hand. That’s when it’s time to call in the Wyman Plumbing & Mechanical team to help get to the bottom of your slow-draining sink and fix it. Our plumbers are licensed, insured, and dedicated to giving you the highest level of service. While headquartered in North Phoenix, we proudly service the entire North Valley area and are ready to help you with your plumbing needs!
