How do you unblock a sink with standing water in it?

A clogged sink filled with standing water is not just an inconvenience—it can also create unpleasant odours and provide a breeding ground for bacteria. If your sink is backed up and water won’t drain, don’t panic. There are several effective methods you can try to clear the blockage and get your sink running smoothly again.

Before attempting to unclog the drain, remove as much standing water as possible. Use a bucket or cup to scoop out the water and pour it into another drain that is working properly. If necessary, use a sponge to soak up any remaining liquid.

After clearing the water, take a close look at the drain opening. Sometimes, clogs are caused by visible debris like food particles, grease build-up or hair. If you see any obstructions, wear rubber gloves and try to pull them out by hand.

If the clog is deeper in the pipes, there are a number of different methods you can try. One of the simplest ways to clear a clog is by using hot water:

1. Heat a couple of litres of water until it’s very hot but not boiling (boiling water can damage PVC pipes).

2. Pour the hot water directly into the drain opening.

3. Turn on the faucet to check if the water is draining.

4. If the sink is still clogged, repeat the process one more time.

A plunger can help force the blockage out of the drain using air pressure:

1. Remove any remaining standing water from the sink.

2. If your sink has two basins, use a wet rag to plug the unclogged side.

3. Position a sink plunger (flat-bottomed) over the clogged drain to form a seal.

4. Pump the plunger up and down about 5 to 10 times.

5. Remove the plunger and check if the water flows freely.

6. Repeat if necessary.

A natural and chemical-free way to break up clogs is by using baking soda and vinegar:

1. Remove as much standing water as possible.

2. Pour 1 cup of baking soda down the drain.

3. Follow with 1 cup of white vinegar.

4. Cover the drain with a rubber stopper or cloth and let the mixture sit for around 15 to 60 minutes.

5. Pour hot (not boiling) water down the drain to flush it out.

6. If this method partially works, repeat the process once more.

If the clog is deep in the pipes, a plumber’s snake (drain auger) can help remove it:

1. Insert the snake into the drain and push it down until you feel resistance.

2. Rotate the handle to break apart the clog or hook onto debris.

3. Slowly pull out the snake, bringing up any material caught in it.

4. Run water to check if the clog is cleared.

If the drain is still blocked, the clog may be trapped in the P-trap. The P-trap is the curved pipe under your sink that can collect debris and cause blockages:

1. Place a bucket under the P-trap to catch water and debris.

2. Use channel lock pliers to loosen the nuts on both sides of the trap.

3. Remove the P-trap and inspect it for clogs.

4. Clean out any debris using a brush or running water.

5. Reattach the P-trap and tighten the nuts.

6. Run water to see if the sink drains properly.

If the water still backs up, the clog might be deeper in the plumbing system, requiring professional assistance. You can use our free search tool to find an approved local plumber in your area.