Are you dealing with a chronically slow or clogged sink drain? It’s frustrating when your bathroom or kitchen sink starts backing up and drains at a snail’s pace. And while it’s common to blame household members for misusing sinks and drains, there are several other reasons sinks get blocked over time. Certain materials and substances we put down drains inevitably build up and cause obstructions. The good news is that being aware of what causes clogged drains can help you prevent slow-flowing sinks in the first place. In this article, we’ll cover the most common culprits behind blocked kitchen and bathroom sink drains and tips to avoid clogs.
Causes of Blocked Kitchen Sinks
Kitchen sinks are one of the most used fixtures in a home and, therefore, most susceptible to getting blocked drains. Food particles, oil and grease going down the drain are major culprits.
Food Waste
Leftover scraps of food that go down the drain can build up over time. Things like coffee grinds, egg shells, and small chunks of vegetables can collect in pipes.
Fats, Oils and Grease
Cooking oils, fats, butter and sauces all look like liquid when hot. But as soon as these materials cool down, they solidify and coat the inside of drain pipes.
Improper Garbage Disposal Use
It’s tempting to throw all food waste in the garbage disposal. But only small bits of organic material should go in. Disposals can’t handle eggshells, fibrous veggies, rice and pasta.
Causes of Blocked Bathroom Sinks
Bathroom sink drains deal with soap scum, hair, and other debris that can gradually form clogs:
Hair and Grooming Products
Loose hairs washing down the drain gather together into a ball. Hair products and conditioners are sticky and bind hairs into dense clogs.
Toothpaste and Mouthwash
Toothpaste foam contains glycerin that sticks to pipes. Mouthwash has alcohol that erodes pipes over time. These bathroom products should never go down the drain.
Soap Scum
Soap scum arises from magnesium and calcium reacting with soap. It leaves a sticky residue in pipes that traps other gunk.
Clearing a Clogged Sink
If you have a sink that is draining slowly or not at all, you likely have a clog. Here are some tips to clear it:
- Try a plunger over the drain first, repeatedly plunging vigorously to push through the clog. Cover overflow holes with a wet rag when plunging.
- Use a zip-it-style plastic drain snake to grab and remove hair clogs.
- Boil water and pour it down the drain - hot water can melt grease obstructions.
- Try baking soda and vinegar - the chemical reaction can help break up organic matter.
- Avoid harsh liquid drain cleaners - they are corrosive and can damage pipes.
- Call a plumber - they have high-powered augers that can reach deep obstructions. Avoid DIY chemical drain cleaners.
Preventing and Clearing Clogged Drains
For professional drain cleaning you can rely on, contact the experts at Triple Zero Plumbing & Gas. We use industry-leading equipment to clear even the toughest clogs. Get your sinks flowing freely again with our safe, effective drain cleaning services. Don’t tolerate the huge headache of a blocked sink - call us today!