How to tackle a clogged sink: Simple home remedies and prevention tips

Clogged sink? It happens. Fortunately, you can tackle this problem with home remedies or at least try it. Here are some tips worth trying.

Everyone will face a clogged sink sooner or later. You don't always need to call a professional; there are a few simple and effective methods to start with so you can use the sink without hassle.

A clogged drain in the kitchen sink? Often, the blame falls on food scraps or coffee grounds. Immediately, the smell becomes unpleasant, and water doesn't drain properly, hampering daily dishwashing and meal preparation.

We know how to prevent such a situation well. First of all, we put plates into the sink without food scraps. It’s also best to regularly clean the drain. Often, this is needed even when the water drains properly, and there’s no bad smell. There is a simple trick to determine if the drain needs quick cleaning. Just pour ice cubes into the sink and turn on the water. Although this won't clean the sink, this test will show if it’s time for a thorough pipe cleaning. The ice will partially block the drain, and the dirt from the pipes will back up into the sink, allowing you to assess its extent.

One of the most effective home remedies is using baking soda and vinegar. Pouring 120 millilitres (about half a cup) of baking soda and then 120 millilitres of vinegar into the pipes can work wonders. After pouring the mixture into the pipes, cover the drain for about 30 minutes, then flush it with hot water.

Another proven method is to throw two aspirin tablets down the drain and pour in 240 millilitres (about one cup) of vinegar. The mixture will start to foam, and in a few minutes, the clogged sink problem will disappear. You can also use more traditional methods like hot water and dishwashing liquid daily, which help dissolve grease and other contaminants.

Another trick? Reach for a dishwasher pod. Fill a glass halfway with hot water and drop a dishwasher pod. Once it dissolves, pour the solution into the sink and wait about 10 minutes. After this time, rinse everything with warm water. Pour the solution into the sink every two weeks to be most effective.