Follow our Guide of 10 Simple Steps that will Unblock even the most Stubborn Blockages
There are few things worse than a blocked up sink in the bathroom. As hair and soap scum eventually block up the pipes, water takes longer to drain and an odour can begin to pollute the room. Below you will find 10 simple steps to follow in this event, which will save you time and money in the long-run. Who needs a plumber when you can D.I.Y?
First of all you will need the following:
- Rubber Gloves (Whichever colour makes you feel beautiful)
- A Plunger
- An Old Tea-Towel
- A Bucket
- Baking Soda
- Soda Crystals
- White Vinegar (Definitely not Sarson’s, Sarson’s should be reserved strictly for chips only)
- A Strong Constitution and the Desire to Succeed
STEP 1 – De-Scum
Take the plug out and thoroughly clean any and all of the unwanted grime and mucky stuff that’s blocking the drain.
STEP 2 – Seal it up
Ensure that the plughole is covered in water, creating an airtight seal for the plunger. (This is where it starts to get a little messy)
STEP 3 – Say no to Overflow
Grab your old tea-towel and use it to block the water overflow, making sure that there’s an air tight seal whilst you’re at it.
STEP 4 – Plunge Away
This is where the fun begins. Take the plunger and put it over the plughole. Now gently push the plunger down and up, all the while being sure to hold the towel against the overflow, strengthening the seal.
STEP 5 – Bust out the Baking Soda and Vinegar
If you happen to be struggling using the plunger method then give this one a go. Pour a reasonably small amount of baking soda down the drain, and then a cup of white vinegar.
STEP 6 – Flush it out
Now that you can hear the vinegar and soda fizzing away, you know that the magic is happening. Let it simmer for a few minutes and then thoroughly flush the mixture down the drain using hot water.
STEP 7 – Soda Crystals
If Step 6 fails, this method can be used alternatively, utilising the crystals to unblock the sink. Grab some boiling water (safely) and dissolve some soda crystals, then pour the mixture down the plughole to tackle the build-up of gunk and grime.
STEP 8 – Clean out U-Bend
If Steps 6 & 7 both fail then it’s time to get your hands dirty! Remove and clean out the U-Bend manually.
STEP 9 – Get your Bucket
Under your sink, position your bucket under the first bend in the pipe in order to catch any water.
STEP 10 – Drain and Inspect
Slowly unscrew the fitting at the bottom of your sink. Be aware that as the water drips out you should stop and allow the water to drain into your bucket beneath. Once everything is drained you can remove the pipe and thoroughly inspect it. Then thoroughly clean everything out and voila: you’re blockage issue has been resolved.
STEP 11 – (There shouldn’t be an 11th step)
If you’ve tried all of the above and you’re still having issues then you should call a professional plumber to take a closer look.
