How to unblock a sink

A blocked sink is usually caused by a build up of grime and dirt over time, which means this is normally your responsibility to fix if there’s an issue. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you.

You can buy a sink and plughole unblocker product at the supermarket, which will have instructions for use on the back. Alternatively, you can follow the simple steps below to find out how to unclog your drain with things you might already have in your home:

Unblock sink step 1

Step one

Make sure your sink is dry.

Unblock sink step 2

Step two

Pour at least one whole cup of baking soda down the drain followed by two cups of boiling water.

Unblock sink step 3

Step three

Wait a few minutes.

Unblock sink step 4

Step four

Add one more cup of baking soda and a cup of white vinegar.

Unblock sink step 5

Step five

Plug the drain if you can. If you hear it bubbling and fizzing, that means it’s working.

Unblock sink step 6

Step six

Once the bubbles have all gone, you can wash it away with another two cups of boiling water.

Unblock sink step 7

Step seven

Try to keep your sink clean and don't wash food or fat down the plughole (this will stop it getting blocked again).

Unblock sink step 8

Step eight

You could also repeat the above steps once a month to keep everything running smoothly.

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