Clogged Drain? There are a few things you can try on your own.
Clear the area around the drain and protect the area with towels.
Plunge the drain (cup plunger works best for sinks; cover overflow if you have one).
If there’s standing water, hot water flush: pour hot (not boiling) water in stages.
Baking soda + vinegar: pour 1/2 cup baking soda, then 1 cup vinegar, cover for 15–20 minutes, flush with hot water.
If it’s still slow, use a drain snake/auger: feed it in slowly and rotate to break up the clog.
For hair clogs, check and clean the stopper or trap under the sink.
When to call a pro
The clog recurs after DIY fixes
Multiple drains are affected
You smell sewage or notice gurgling noises
There’s standing sewage or backflow
Safety and cautions
Avoid aggressive chemical drain cleaners, especially if you have a septic system or older pipes.
If you have a garbage disposal, follow disposal-specific tips and reset if needed.
If you’re unsure about pipe material or if the clog is severe, it’s safer to call a licensed plumber.
