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Dealing with a blocked bathroom or kitchen sink drain typically results in an unpleasant ordeal, marked by unsavoury odours, odd noises, or slow drainage.
Fortunately, there’s a range of do-it-yourself remedies at your disposal before you consider paying for a plumber to tackle the task.
James Chapman, both a skilled plumber and the owner of Bella Bathrooms, has shared several methods for clearing sink blockages without relying on a plunger, thereby reducing the likelihood of needing professional help.
Soda crystals
These multi-purpose cleaners work well to “clear blocked sinks effectively”, according to James.
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.
Hot water and dish soap
A combination of hot water and dish soap can “work wonders” for thick grease-related clogs, according to the plumber.
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.
Washing up liquid is something most will always have in their kitchen cupboard. If not, Express.co.uk has found that it retails the cheapest at Morrisons for 55p.
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.
Households may need to repeat this process multiple times for those struggling with tougher clogs.
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.
Afterwards, 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”.
