Unclog Any Kitchen Sink With This Drain Snaking Technique
Is your kitchen sink draining slower than usual lately? Do you notice gurgling sounds or foul odors coming from the drain? If so, you're likely dealing with a clogged kitchen sink. Food particles, grease, soap scum, and hair can gradually build up inside sink pipes and cause annoying clogs.
Instead of reaching for harsh chemical drain cleaners, try this simple drain snaking technique first. Snaking is an effective DIY method to mechanically unclog sink drains and get your water flowing freely again. With some basic supplies, a little prep work, and easy step-by-step instructions, you can clear clogged kitchen sinks in less than 30 minutes. No plumber required!
Necessary Supplies
Unclogging a kitchen sink with a drain snake is a straightforward process, but having the right tools is key. Here are the basic supplies you'll need:
![how to snake a kitchen drain](https://www.totinoskitchen.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/how-to-snake-a-kitchen-drain-972x365.jpg)
- Drain snake/auger - A long, flexible metal cable you feed down the drain to dislodge clogs. Hand-crank and motorized options are available, but a simple hand snake is ideal for most kitchen sinks.
- Bucket - Place this under the sink to catch any water that may spill when removing the drain trap.
- Rags - Use to block overflow drain holes to prevent water backup.
- Slip-joint pliers - Makes removing the sink drain trap easier.
- Safety goggles - Protect your eyes from debris when snaking the drain.
- Flashlight/headlamp - Helps to illuminate the drain as you feed the snake down.
Choosing a Hand Snake
For kitchen sink clogs, a basic hand auger or drum auger is your best bet. These feature a long, flexible steel cable coil that unwinds from a drum as you crank a handle. Extendable hand snakes range from 3 to 20 feet long. Choose one at least 6 feet long to reach clogs deep in kitchen drain pipes.
The end of the cable may be a simple hooked tip or a threaded auger bit to help pull out debris. A closet auger is ideal for bathroom sinks but usually too short for kitchen use. Avoid flimsy plastic snakes - the steel cable's stiffness helps penetrate clogs.
Safety Tips
Review the manufacturer's instructions for safe operation before snaking a drain. Always wear thick gloves and safety goggles for eye protection. The snake's metal cable can scratch skin or eyes if it whips around. Make sure to secure any loose clothing and long hair before starting.
Prep the Sink
With your supplies gathered, it's time to get prepped for the drain snaking process:
- Place a bucket under the sink to catch water.
- Remove the sink strainer basket and/or pop-up stopper.
- If there are any overflow holes inside the sink, plug them with rags to prevent water backup.
- Remove as much standing water as possible from the sink using cups and towels.
Removing the P-Trap
For easier access, detach the curved P-trap pipe underneath the sink. This U-shaped piece catches debris but also blocks the snake's access to clogs. Place a bucket under the trap before loosening it to prevent spills. Use slip-joint pliers to loosen the compression nuts on the trap joints.
Snaking the Drain
With your sink prepped and supplies at the ready, it's go time. Follow these key steps to clear clogs using your hand auger:
- Feed the snake cable into the drain opening slowly and gently.
- When you feel resistance, that means you've hit the clog. Do not force the cable.
- With the clog located, twist the snake cable in short motions to pierce the debris.
- Also push and pull the cable in and out repeatedly to help dislodge the clog.
- Repeat twisting and pushing motions until the cable moves freely again.
Tips for Snaking Success
Here are some expert tips to ensure smooth snaking and prevent pipe damage:
- Take it slow - Don't force the cable. Let the snake do the work.
- Loosen debris little by little - Small motions work better than force.
- Ensure the snake hits the clog before twisting - Prevent pipe scarring.
- Do not over-crank the handle - Can cause cable kinking.
- If cable binds, rotate handle backwards to release - Avoid jamming.
Retrieve Snake and Check Drain
Once the clog is cleared and cable moves freely, retrieve the snake:
- Crank the handle slowly to retract the snake back into the drum.
- Go slow to avoid splashing dirty water and prevent cable tangling.
- Make sure you remove all of the snake - Don't leave any length in the pipe.
- After fully removed, run clean water to test drainage. If slow, repeat snaking steps to clear residue.
- Thoroughly rinse snake cable with water and wipe clean before storage.
Finally, reattach any parts removed like the P-trap. Verify no leaks before replacing the sink strainer. Clean up your work area and wash hands thoroughly after snaking a drain.
Alternative DIY Unclogging Methods
For simple sink clogs, a plunger or chemical drain cleaner may also do the trick. However, snaking is often the most effective DIY solution for tough kitchen clogs. Consider these other common methods:
Plunger
A forceful plunge creates suction to dislodge clogs. Cover overflow holes and add water to create pressure. Works well for minor clogs close to drain.
Baking Soda and Vinegar
This classic DIY trick uses a chemical reaction between baking soda and vinegar to break up gunk. Safe but not as powerful on severe clogs.
Boiling Water
Heat helps dissolve grease clogs. Carefully pour boiling water down drain. Avoid steam burns or cracking pipes from too much hot water.
Caustic chemical drain cleaners also available but can damage pipes and harm the environment. Try these methods before turning to toxic cleaners.
When to Call a Professional
DIY drain snaking is quick and effective for clearing most simple kitchen sink clogs. But if you try multiple times and the drain remains blocked, it may be time to call in a pro. Here are some signs you need a professional plumber:
- Snake cable won't go past a certain point - Indicates deep clog beyond DIY tools.
- Drain has multiple turns that block the cable - Pro snakes are more flexible.
- Sink is completely clogged with no water drainage - Severe blockage.
- You want pipes thoroughly cleaned to prevent future clogs - Plumber can flush pipes.
For tricky drain issues, a plumber has industrial-strength motorized snakes that reach deeper clogs, specialized auger bits, and experience clearing tough blockages. They can also inspect your pipes for issues like cracks or roots growing into drains.
FAQ About DIY Drain Snaking
What causes kitchen sink clogs?
Food particles, grease, hair, and soap scum accumulate over time. Garbage disposals can jam. Tree roots or a collapsed pipe can also block kitchen drains.
How can I prevent future clogs after snaking?
Avoid pouring grease down sinks. Use drain strainers and regularly clear built-up hair. Periodically flush pipes with baking soda and vinegar to keep them clear.
Is snaking a sink drain dangerous?
Drain snakes can scratch skin and eyes. Always wear gloves and goggles. Never operate power snakes near standing water due to electric shock risk.
What if my sink has two drains?
Determine which drain is clogged based on water flow. Plug one drain while snaking the other. You may need to snake both drains.
Can I rent a motorized snake?
Yes, most home improvement stores rent gas or electric powered drain augers for tough DIY jobs. Use caution and follow safety procedures.
As you can see, unclogging a kitchen sink drain is straightforward with this handy drain snaking technique. By equipping yourself with a quality hand snake, taking time to prep your workspace, and following the simple steps, you can banish most clogs yourself without harmful chemicals or paying for a plumber.
With practice, you can become confident fixing future clogged drains in minutes. Just remember to always exercise caution when operating drain snakes to avoid cuts and electric shocks. Invest a little time upfront in DIY drain snaking, and you'll save hours of headache from having to deal with slow, clogged kitchen sinks.