There is nothing worse than having a backed-up drain. Most people don’t put much thought into a clogged sink but when it happens, that’s all you focus on. We need our drains to work smoothly because we use them constantly every day for washing, rinsing, and so much more.

So what do you do if you have a clogged sink? You can certainly call Etobicoke plumbers for their expert service and advice. Most clogged drains though can be corrected by you with a little knowledge and items you have around the house.

Here are five home remedies for clogged sink:

Remedy #1: The Plunger

Using the plunger is one of the most common home remedies for a clogged sink. It works for the toilet so why not the sink? Most homes have a plunger so you already have the tool you need. You’re gonna want to disinfect it first because you know where it’s been or better yet, have a second one around dedicated to just clogged sinks.

For this method simply fill the sink up halfway and cover the whole drain opening with the plunger so you get a tight seal. Next, use sharp, quick movements, up and down to push through the clog. Go for 30 seconds and have a look. If the water is draining slowly add more water and do another round. It should start emptying quicker and you are on your way to an open drain.

Remedy #2: Boiling Water

Depending on the type of debris in the drain, boiling hot water may do the trick. Soap scum or other organic matter can dissolve with hot water and save you from getting into more involved methods. It’s always best to try the easiest way first.

Simply fill your kettle up and bring it to a boil. When you start pouring the water in, try to direct it right down the spout opening so it doesn’t cool in the sink and hits the clog with the full force of gravity. Try pouring it in stages. If this method is going to work, it will work pretty fast so you’ll know if your clog is more than soap scum buildup. Don’t use this on porcelain sinks as it could cause cracks. Also if you have PVC pipes, hot water could lossen the joints.

Remedy #3: Baking Soda

This multi-purpose product can be really effective in unclogging drains. It can be used with a combination of vinegar or salt and both methods work very well.

For the baking soda/salt method mix 1/2 cup of each together and pour down the drain. Let it sit for at least half an hour and then follow with boiling water. This produces a strong chemical reaction that will unclog your more stubborn blockages.

The baking soda/vinegar method has you pouring a half box of the soda directly down the drain. Follow that with a half cup of vinegar. They react together as well to clear the problem. You can also mix them in a cup and quickly pour the mix down the drain. After 30 minutes follow up with your trusty boiling water.

Remedy #4: Wet Vacuum

Sometimes you have to bring out the big guns. If you have a wet/dry vacuum in your garage, it’s time to put it to good use. It’s really the perfect tool for assisting with a really stubborn clog.

The important thing is to get a tight seal on the drain so you may need to use a plastic bottle with the bottom cut off and taped onto the vacuum. Once you have MacGyver’ed the hose you are ready to let the suckling action commence. Put the hose/bottle end tightly into the drain and turn the vacuum on the highest liquid setting. The suction power of the vacuum should do the rest and leave you with a nice, clear drain.

Remedy #5: Coat Hanger

If these methods still aren’t giving you results you may need to physically dig around in the blockage itself. A metal coat hanger really comes in handy for this method. It can clear out the most stubborn clogs in your pipes.

Start by straightening out a metal coat hanger except for the curved end. Fashion it into a hook and start fishing! It’s kind of a feel-as-you-go application. You will come up against the blockage and dig and pull your way through it. Keep going until the water starts draining and don’t stop until you are satisfied. Follow up with boiling water and you should be good to go.

Clogged drains happen to us all. It’s best to avoid it by watching what you dump down your sink and regularly running hot water down the drain to keep those pipes clear. This can avoid any accumulating matter and save you grief in the future. When clogged drains do happen, these home remedies should help you clear the blockage and get back to happy, healthy drains!