Fixing a Clogged Sink or Toilet
When homeowners always rely on plumbers to unclog a sink or toilet drain, it can be expensive, especially when it’s a frequent problem.
No one wants to deal with sink or toilet problems since they could be messy and frustrating. When homeowners always rely on plumbers to unclog a sink or toilet drain, it can be expensive, especially when it’s a frequent problem. However, unclogging a toilet without expert plumbers is possible and worth a try.
There are types of clogs that are easy to deal with. For example, in a sink, it’s often hair combined with soap scum. In a toilet, it may be a partial blockage, like too much paper, or something more sinister, like a child’s favorite toy.
There are some simple steps to avoid clogs altogether, like removing hair from the sink before it can go down the drain or limiting the amount of paper put in the toilet. Drains are only so big and can handle only so much.
Toilets are a little trickier—some things shouldn’t be put into the toilet, like feminine care products, food, or children’s toys. However, when kiddos “accidentally” flush their toys down the toilet, a professional repair is the best way to go.
For sink and toilet clogs, there are a couple of tricks homeowners can master to resolve them.
Use a plunger or plumbing snake
Clogged sinks and toilets are often quickly resolved with a plunger or plumbing snake. The plunger is considered one of the oldest means to deal with a clog, but it has saved a lot of homeowners from paying professional plumbers. For a more reliable cleaning, use a plumbing snake.
Homeowners can purchase plungers and plumbing snakes at a home improvement store or a hardware store, which are relatively inexpensive.
Dish soap and hot water
If plunging doesn’t do the trick, add dish soap to the sink or an empty toilet bowl. Let it sit for 15 to 30 minutes, then flush it with hot water. The clog should resolve itself within 30 minutes. Sometimes, though, it may take a second round to fully clear. If it doesn’t work after the second try, it’s time to call in a plumber.
Baking soda with salt or vinegar
Some homeowners might be tempted to reach for a bottle of Super Strong Ultra-Fast Drain Cleaner to handle a clog, but there are better options. Drain cleaners contain hazardous chemicals that harm the environment and the pipes.
For slowly draining sinks and toilets, try a natural solution. Once the water has drained, mix one cup of plain baking soda with ½ a cup of salt. Pour down the drain and allow the mixture to sit for a few hours or overnight. Then, flush the drain with at least 2 cups of boiling water. This method works particularly well for gradual clogs like hairballs and grease buildup.
Another trick is a vinegar and baking soda solution. Begin by pouring boiling water down the drain, followed by about a cup of baking soda. Let that sit for an hour, then pour an equal amount of white vinegar down the drain. The baking soda and vinegar will react with each other and further break apart and soften the clog. Then pour several cups of boiling water into the drain. This final step should clear whatever’s blocking the drain.
If none of these tips resolve the clog, it’s time to call a licensed, professional plumber to assist.
Simba Plumbing offers residential and commercial plumbing services to Phoenix and surrounding areas. We are family-owned, meticulous and provide affordable, transparent pricing. Call us at 602-962-3537.
