Does a clogged drain have your sink looking like a bathtub? Most people pick up a chemical drain cleaner from a convenience store if their bathroom sink drains slowly, but there are some cons to this store-bought solution. Chemical drain cleaners are dangerous to humans who inhale or touch the product; the harsh chemicals can also corrode your sink pipes and harm the environment. There are plenty of safer ways to fix a clogged drain using materials already in your home. Read on to find out how.
Using Hot Water
First, try running very hot water down the drain. Sink drains can collect a variety of gel-like substances including toothpaste, soap, and other personal hygiene products that can be dissolved with hot water. Flush the stopper with hot water, too —ensuring the water runs through small holes of the stopper.
Using a Clothes Hanger
1. Cut a wire clothes hanger at the bottom two corners using wire cutters or pliers. You will be using the long straight piece of metal.
2. On one end, bend a 3-inch piece to form a small loop, so that the end with the loop sticks out perpendicular to the rest of the wire. This part will work as a handle.
3. On the other end, curl the metal to form a small hook. It should be small enough to move around in the drain, but big enough to grab debris.
4. Lower the hook end into the drain.
5. Twirl the hook around to feel for debris.
6. Drag the hook out when you feel something.
7. Continue fishing for debris, inserting the hook into a different hole if the drain is divided by a filter.
8. Turn on the water to test the drain.
Using a Plunger
1. Plug the overflow hole with paper towels.
2. Spread a thin layer of petroleum jelly around the edge of the plunger to give it more suction.
3 . Fill the sink until it can cover the base of the plunger.
4. Put the plunger over the drain.
5. Push the plunger all the way down.
6. Pull up against the suction.
7. Repeat step 5 and step 6 until water begins draining quickly.
Using a Homemade Drain Cleaner
1. Boil a gallon of water in a large pot.
2. Add half of a lemon to the pot.
3. Pour a 1/2 cup of baking soda directly down the drain.
4. Pour a cup of white vinegar directly down the drain.
5. Pour the water mixture down the drain.
If the above suggestions do not work, you can try using a store-bought drain cleaner or contacting a local plumber through TalkLocal. Just fill out a service request online or on the phone and TalkLocal will connect you with up to three service providers in your area who can help you.
