How to Unclog a Sink: 6 Effective Methods
Why Does a Sink Get Blocked?
Before unblocking, let's understand the causes:
- Hair - Cause #1 in the bathroom
- Soap and limescale - Accumulate over time
- Food residue - In the kitchen sink
- Fallen objects - Caps, jewellery, etc.
Method 1: Boiling Water
The simplest, often effective for light blockages.
Steps:
- Boil 2 litres of water
- Pour directly into the sink
- Wait 5 minutes
- Repeat if necessary
Warning: Don't use on old PVC (risk of deformation).
Method 2: Bicarbonate + Vinegar
The most popular natural solution.
Ingredients:
- 100g bicarbonate of soda
- 100ml white vinegar
- Hot water
Steps:
- Pour the bicarbonate into the hole
- Add the vinegar (it foams, that's normal!)
- Cover with a plug or cloth
- Leave for 30 minutes
- Rinse with hot water
Method 3: The Plunger
The classic unblocking tool.
Technique:
- Block the overflow with a damp cloth
- Fill the sink with 5 cm of water
- Place the plunger over the hole
- Pump vigorously 15-20 times
- Remove quickly
Tip: Apply vaseline to the plunger edge for better seal.
Method 4: The Drain Snake
For deep blockages.
Use:
- Insert the snake into the hole
- Turn the handle while advancing
- When you feel the blockage, persist
- Pull out while turning
- Rinse thoroughly
Price: 15-50 TND at hardware stores
Method 5: Clean the Trap
Often, the blockage is in the trap.
Steps:
- Place a basin under the trap
- Unscrew the trap by hand (or with a wrench)
- Empty and clean the inside
- Check the seals
- Reattach and test
Important: Keep the seals, they're reusable if in good condition.
Method 6: Chemical Unblocker
As a last resort only.
Precautions:
- Wear gloves and goggles
- Ventilate the room
- NEVER mix different products
- Follow manufacturer's instructions
Our advice: Avoid if possible - harmful to the environment and pipes.
Summary Table
| Method | Effectiveness | Difficulty | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boiling water | ⭐⭐ | Easy | Free |
| Bicarbonate + Vinegar | ⭐⭐⭐ | Easy | ~2 TND |
| Plunger | ⭐⭐⭐ | Medium | 5-15 TND |
| Drain snake | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Medium | 15-50 TND |
| Trap cleaning | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Medium | Free |
| Chemical product | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Easy | 10-25 TND |
Prevention: Avoiding Blockages
- Protective grille - Catches hair and debris
- Monthly cleaning - Bicarbonate + hot water
- Don't throw - Oil, coffee grounds, scraps
- Trap maintenance - Clean twice yearly
When to Call a Plumber?
- Recurring blockage despite clearing
- Persistent bad smells
- Multiple drains blocked
- Water backing up in other appliances
Conclusion
Most blockages are easily solved with these methods. At Sanitech, we sell protective grilles and accessories to prevent blockages.
👉 See our sinks — or if it's the basin that's done for, browse our range of basins.
