A clog in the sink can be very annoying, but most people have experienced this problem at some time. This blockage is usually caused by an accumulation of dirt, clumps, and hair so it can be difficult to treat. While harsh chemicals are often used to dissolve blockages, there are some natural ingredients that you can use to keep these harmful substances out of your home and help you save money. Clearing the blockage manually by vacuuming or using a flexible cleaner is often the easiest option for removing the blockage naturally. Additionally, there are several enzyme-based drain cleaners and solutions that may also help dissolve the blockage if manual methods don't work.
Step
Method 1 of 3: Using Manual Power
Step 1. Try using a drain vacuum (toilet vacuum)
This vacuum can also overcome blockages in the sink just like the toilet. However, be sure to clean the toilet vacuum before using it in the sink. Or, buy a new vacuum to use in the sink.
- Cover all drain holes with a vacuum.
- Pull and press the plunger several times to loosen the blockage.
- Remove the vacuum after about a minute to see if water can drain into the drain. If the sink is still clogged, continue sucking to loosen the blockage.
Step 2. Use clothes hanger wire
Open the hanger wire so that it forms a straight line with a hook at one end. Insert this wire into the drain, and see if the blockage can be pulled out or crushed with a hook.
- Insert the wire until you feel resistance. Next, wiggle the wire up, down, and sideways to thread the hook.
- Once the hook has successfully pierced the blockage, pull the wire up to remove it.
- If you don't feel any resistance as you push the wire down the drain, the blockage is probably deeper and requires special tools.
Step 3. Use a flexible cleaner
This flexible cleaner is a long, spiral-tipped metal wire that can remove blockages in drains manually. Purchase a flexible cleaner in the size of your sink at a hardware or home supply store to get rid of stubborn clogs.
- Insert this flexible cleaner into the drain and push it down until you feel the resistance from the blockage.
- Once you have reached the blockage, turn the cleaning wire clockwise three or four full turns, then pull it slightly. If you feel a blockage, it is likely that the blockage has been successfully attached to the flexible cleaner.
- Keep turning the cleaning wire until you've penetrated the blockage and broken it into smaller pieces.
- If the resistance you feel is reduced, gently pull the flexible cleaner out and remove any remaining clog from the tip.
- Check again to make sure your water line is running smoothly. If the water still doesn't drain smoothly, repeat the cleaning process again.
Method 2 of 3: Using Natural Ingredients
Step 1. Look for natural drain cleaners
Several eco-cleaning brands offer enzyme-based drain cleaners that may help loosen or even clear the blockage. This kind of cleaner can destroy the biofilm layer, so it is most suitable for removing clogs of organic matter such as hair, soap, and grease.
These eco-friendly drain cleaners are often said to work best on mild to moderate blockages, but may not be able to clear heavy blockages
Step 2. Use vinegar and baking soda
Baking soda and vinegar can help loosen blockages in drains by dissolving and pushing gases into them. However, try not to use these materials on metal pipes as baking soda can rust the pipe surfaces and dissolve the metal in the pipes into the water.
- Remove the drain cover and pour half a cup of baking soda directly into it. You may need to use a funnel to help add the baking soda.
- Continue by pouring half a cup of white vinegar.
- Allow this mixture to react and form bubbles for 15 minutes in running water. Once the bubbles are gone, rinse the drains with hot water.
Step 3. Make a hydrogen peroxide solution
Make a solution of one cup of hydrogen peroxide with 1 liter of cold water. Pour this solution into the drain and let it sit for 20-30 minutes. Then, rinse the drains with warm water.
- Be careful when using hydrogen peroxide because in concentrated concentrations it can cause skin burns if not properly monitored.
- Do not use hydrogen peroxide if you have previously tried baking soda.
Step 4. Call a plumber
If your drains are still clogged after trying some of the methods above, you may need to contact your local plumber and ask for help. Tell the plumber all the ways you have tried to clear the clog in the sink so they can avoid using products that can react negatively.
Look for information on eco-friendly plumber services around you via the internet or local advertisements
Method 3 of 3: Prevent Blockages Naturally
Step 1. Keep food out of the sink
Even if you provide a trash filter, it's a good idea to keep food out of drains as much as possible. Dispose of leftover food in the trash before rinsing the dishes, and use the trash sieve only to collect food debris that isn't wasted.
If you must use a trash filter, be sure to only add a small amount of food at a time, then throw it away before washing the dishes
Step 2. Install the filter cap on the water line
Installing filters or drain covers in bathrooms and sinks will help prevent hair, food debris, and other debris from getting inside. Drain covers are often inexpensive and available at many hardware and home supply stores.
Installation of drain filters is also recommended for bathrooms and bathtubs to prevent hair from entering and causing clogs
Step 3. Pour hot water
You can help break down grease and grime by pouring hot water down the drain once a week or after heavy use. Heat the water in a saucepan and then pour it for 2-3 minutes into the drains to help loosen any lumps that could potentially cause clogs.
Do not heat the water to a boil because it is too hot and there is a risk of damaging the water line
Tips
- If you are in doubt whether a particular product is suitable for clearing a blockage, call and ask a plumber for advice.
- Rinse and clean the sink regularly to help prevent clogs.
