1Pull out the stopper
Lift or unscrew the stopper and clean off hair and gunk. This alone fixes many bathroom sinks.
FREE REPAIR GUIDE
How to Unclog a Sink or Drain
Unclog a kitchen sink, bathroom sink or shower drain with a plunger, drain snake or by cleaning the P-trap.
DIFFICULTYEasy
ESTIMATED TIME10–30 min
TOOLSPlunger, drain snake, bucket
POTENTIAL SAVINGS$100–200Labour estimate · varies
Know what you’re replacing.
Bathroom drains usually clog with hair and soap; kitchen sinks with grease and food. Start with the simplest fix and work up. Most clogs are within a foot or two of the drain.
What you’ll need.
Plastic drain snake (hair clog tool)For bathroom sinks and showers · ~$6
View on Amazon →
Cup sink plunger~$10
View on Amazon →Hand drain auger 15–25 ftFor deeper clogs · ~$25
View on Amazon →As an Amazon Associate, RepairAI may earn from qualifying purchases. Check that parts fit your exact model before buying.
A little preparation first.
- Remove standing water with a cup into a bucket.
- For a double kitchen sink, plug the other side with a wet rag before plunging.
- Don't use chemical drain cleaner if you'll be plunging or opening pipes.
- If chemical drain cleaner is already in the drain, don't plunge or open the trap — wear gloves and eye protection and call a plumber.
One step at a time.
2Use a drain snake
Push the barbed plastic strip down the drain, twist, and pull it back slowly with the hair.
3Plunge the sink
Add 2–3 inches of water, seal the plunger over the drain and pump 10–15 times.
4Clean the P-trap
Put a bucket under the U-shaped pipe, unscrew the two slip nuts by hand, empty and rinse the trap, then refit hand-tight.
5Snake deeper
If the trap was clear, feed a hand auger into the wall pipe and crank to break up the clog. Reassemble and run hot water.
Log in 
Troubleshooting
Trap leaks after refittingThe washer is misaligned — loosen, reseat it and hand-tighten.Only the kitchen sink is slowGrease buildup; run very hot water and dish soap, then snake.Every drain is slowMain line or vent problem — call a plumber.
FAQ
Baking soda and vinegar?Fine for odors and light buildup; it won't clear a real clog.How to prevent clogs?Use a hair catcher and keep grease out of the sink.
General guidance only. Turn off power, water or gas before you work and follow the manufacturer’s instructions; if unsure, call a qualified professional.