How to Fix a Slow Sink Drain: 7 Methods

Clear Out Debris With a Zip-It Tool

Fix a slow-draining sink without vinegar or other drain cleaners using a simple Zip-it tool to remove clogs manually. The first step to getting the sink drain flowing again is to clear out any hair and debris that has collected there. One relatively easy way to do this is to use the Zip-it tool, an inexpensive tool that works wonders in just minutes. The Zip-it tool can be put into the drain to catch hair and debris, which can then be pulled out. The Zip-it can be used in a sink drain with or without a pop-up because it is thin enough to fit even with a pop-up.

Remove the Pop-up

The shape of the sink pop-up is such that it often collects debris and build-up. If you do not have a Zip-it tool, or if the tool cannot clear out all debris, another option is to remove and clean the pop-up. Most pop-ups are held in place with a nut attached to the drain just under the sink. To remove the pop-up, reach behind the drain pipe under the sink to find the pop-up nut. Once the nut is removed, the pop-up can be removed from the sink drain, cleaned, and reinstalled.

Use Homemade Drain Cleaner

Pour 1/2 cup of baking soda down a slow-draining sink. Follow it with 1/2 cup of vinegar. Let the mixture rest for a few minutes. Rinse the solution with boiling water to clear the clog.

This homemade drain cleaner can clean the drain pipes after the larger debris has been pulled out. The reaction caused by combining two common and inexpensive household products can help to break down the mucky build-up on the inside of the drain pipes. Getting some of the build-up out of the drain can allow it to flow freely again. Using a DIY drain cleaner avoids adding harsh chemicals to the water supply and saves money.

Clear the Sink Overflow

One purpose of the overflow opening is to divert water into the drain if it accidentally rises too high in the sink. Another essential purpose is to allow air into the drain when the sink is filled with water. The air that comes into the drain through the overflow helps water in the sink to drain faster. The sink overflow is another place where debris and build-up can be collected over time. If a sink is draining slowly and cleaning the drain does not seem to solve the problem, it is also a good idea to clean the overflow.

Use a Plunger

A plunger can be used on a slow sink drain; it does not have to be reserved for a complete drain stoppage. A little plunging can help to loosen and dislodge hair and debris that is collected in the pipe. To be sure that the plunger is effective, cover the sink overflow with a rag or some duct tape before plunging. Covering the overflow helps create a seal, which is needed to clear any blocked pipe.

Use a Snake

If simpler methods aren't working, consider getting a drain auger to snake a bathroom or kitchen sink drain. Also called a plumbing snake, it is a thin, flexible metal cable that can be wound or unwound on a reel. It has a drill or corkscrew-like end that can penetrate clogs, dislodge them, and pull them up or out.

Clean the P-Trap

If all other methods fail to clear a stubborn clog, the last step before calling a professional is removing and cleaning the P-trap, or the drain pipe under the sink with a bend shaped like a "P" rotated 90 degrees, clockwise to the right. That U-shaped bend in the pipe is a top spot for gunk, like hair, food, grease, and debris, to build up and get clogged.

To safely remove and clean the P-trap, turn off the water supply to the sink. You will need a bucket to catch residue water and debris once you remove the drain pipe, and you might need channel lock pliers or a wrench if you can't unscrew the slip nuts by hand. Unthread the slip nuts, pull the trap down to remove it, clean the pipe, and reinstall it.