Kitchen Sink Clogged? Here’s What to Do

A clogged kitchen sink can bring meal prep to a standstill. Before you call a plumber, try these methods to clear the clog yourself. And if they don’t work, we’re here to help.

Step 1: Check the Garbage Disposal

If you have a disposal:

1. Turn it on—a humming sound means it’s jammed
2. Turn it OFF and unplug it (or flip the breaker)
3. Use an Allen wrench in the bottom to manually rotate the blades
4. Remove any visible debris with tongs (never your hands)
5. Press the reset button and try again

Step 2: Try Boiling Water

For grease clogs:

1. Boil a full kettle of water
2. Pour it directly down the drain in 2-3 stages
3. Wait a few seconds between pours
4. This can dissolve grease buildup

Step 3: Baking Soda and Vinegar

1. Pour 1/2 cup baking soda down the drain
2. Follow with 1/2 cup white vinegar
3. Cover the drain and wait 15-30 minutes
4. Flush with hot water

Step 4: Plunger Method

1. Fill the sink with a few inches of water
2. Block the other drain if you have a double sink
3. Plunge vigorously 15-20 times
4. Check if water drains

When to Call a Professional

• None of the above methods work
• Water backs up into the other sink
• Multiple drains are clogged
• You notice foul odors
• The clog keeps coming back

Preventing Future Clogs

• Never pour grease down the drain
• Use a drain strainer to catch food particles
• Run cold water when using the disposal
• Avoid putting fibrous foods in the disposal

Kitchen sink still clogged? Call (510) 485-9113 for professional drain cleaning.