How To Unblock Your Sink For Less Than £2.50

James Chapman, a plumber and the owner of Bella Bathrooms, has revealed several economical methods for clearing sink blockages without relying on a plunger, thereby reducing the likelihood of needing professional help.

Dealing with a blocked bathroom or kitchen sink typically results in an unpleasant ordeal, marked by unsavory odors, odd noises, or slow drainage. Fortunately, there's a range of do-it-yourself remedies at your disposal before you consider enlisting external support. Below, Chapman provides insight into five practical techniques for dislodging sink clogs without a plunger.

Baking Soda Method: Start by boiling water and pouring it down the drain to dissolve organic matter. Then, add one cup of baking soda into the drain, using a funnel if necessary to ensure it goes directly down. Leave it for a few minutes before pouring in one cup of white vinegar, waiting for the fizzing reaction that helps break down the grime causing the blockage. Replace the plug, allowing the mixture to work for about five minutes. Finally, boil another kettle of water and pour it down the drain to flush through.

Soda Crystals: These multi-purpose cleaners can also clear blocked sinks effectively. Begin by pouring boiling water down the drain, followed by one cup of soda crystals and then another cup of hot water. Wait five minutes before flushing the drain with another kettle of boiling water to clean it thoroughly.

Washing Powder: Biological washing powder can be an effective method for unblocking sinks. Place two tablespoons of the powder down the drain and flush through with boiling water. You may need to repeat this process multiple times for tougher clogs.

Drain Snake: A drain snake is a tool used by both homeowners and plumbers for clearing stubborn blockages. Gently feed the snake down the drain, avoiding force. Twist the handle to navigate the snake into the blockage, continuing until you feel the obstruction break up. Withdraw the snake and check if water now flows freely.

For those without a drain snake, a straightened wire coat hanger can serve as a makeshift tool. Gently push the wire down the drain until you reach the blockage, jiggling it and applying pressure gradually to dislodge the obstruction.

Hot Water and Dish Soap: A combination of hot water and dish soap can work wonders for grease-related clogs. Heat a kettle of water to near boiling, then squirt a generous amount of liquid dish soap directly into the drain. Follow this with the hot water, which will help the soap penetrate and dissolve the grease that's causing the blockage. This method is particularly effective for kitchen sinks where fats and oils are often the culprits.

Salt and Lemon Juice: For a more natural approach, mix a half cup of table salt with the juice of one lemon to create a gritty, acidic mixture that can help break down blockages. Pour this mixture directly into the drain and let it sit for about 30 minutes to allow the acidic reaction to work on the grime and buildup. Afterward, flush the drain with boiling water to clear out the loosened material. This method not only helps to unclog the drain but can also leave your sink smelling fresh and clean.

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