A blocked sink and drain can occur for a number of reasons, including hair buildup or soap gunk. It can cost hundreds to unblock professionally, so it’s worth trying some homemade methods first. Brian Toward, CEO of Wholesale Domestic, said: “One of the most important things to remember is that, in an ideal world, the only thing that should go down your plughole is water.
“You might get away with thinner liquids like juice or squash for most plumbing systems, but oils, grease, and larger debris can quickly lead to blockages. The fewer things you put down the drain, the better.” With this in mind, the expert has shared four homemade methods.
1. Bicarbonate of soda and vinegar
Start by pouring a couple of tablespoons of bicarbonate of soda into the plughole, followed by around one cup of white vinegar.
Let the two ingredients fizz for about five minutes, as this action is “key” to shifting any blockages. The chemical reaction helps to break down any grease, food particles and hair stuck in the plumbing.
After the fizzing settles, pour hot water down the drain to flush everything away. White vinegar can be picked up for as little as 30p a bottle.
2. Washing powder
The expert explained: “Washing powder works similarly to bicarbonate of soda. For this method, add about two tablespoons of washing powder down the drain and immediately follow it with a kettle of hot water.
“The hot water will help activate the washing powder and start breaking down the grease and oils clogging up the pipes. It’s a quick and cost-effective way to deal with kitchen sink blockages caused by fats like chip fat or cooking oil – though an even simpler trick would be to avoid pouring them down the drain in the first place!”
3. Alka Seltzer and white vinegar
Whilst using this method isn’t as powerful as others, it’s a good alternative if you have it. Simply drop two tablets into the plughole, followed by a cup of white vinegar.
The fizzing reaction will help to break down any debris or soap scum that is causing the clog.
After a few minutes, flush the drain with boiling water to clear the mixture and any loosened gunk from the pipes.
4. Boiling water
The expert continued: “If your kitchen sink might be blocked by grease and cooking oils, try pouring some boiling water down the plughole. The heat can melt the fat and help clear the pipe.
“Stick the kettle on, and then make sure to pour it slowly and carefully into the plughole. If your sink isn’t made of metal, try to minimise how much water touches the sink itself to reduce the risk of cracking or warping.
“Take your time, especially if the sink still has water in it, to avoid accidentally splashing yourself with hot water.”
