How to Unclog Your Kitchen Sink (and the Best Accessories to Keep it Clean!)

There’s nothing more frustrating than a perpetually clogged sink. Luckily, there’s a myriad of natural DIY solutions (and accessories) to help you combat even the toughest, grimiest clogged drains.

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Clear glass bottle labelled Vinegar and Baking Soda in chalk, next to a scoop and lemon slice

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Baking Soda and Vinegar

Ever wonder how to unclog your sink in an efficient and eco-friendly manner? To start, pour 1/2 cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by 1/2 cup of vinegar. Plug your drain and let it sit for an hour. When the time is up, pour boiling water down the drain until it flows cleanly. For more tips, check out these natural cleaning products you can make at home.

A farmhouse style sink with brass hardware in a brightly lit renovated kitchen

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Plumber’s Snake

If baking soda just isn’t cutting it, this trusty tool can clear deeper clogs that might be located further in the piping. Although it requires extra labour (you’ll have to disassemble the drainpipe and P-trap to reach the “stub pipe”), once you’ve inserted the snake you’ll be able to easily break up the clog. Don’t have one handy? Try this: FlexiSnake Drain, Amazon, $22.

Someone pours a tablespoon of baking soda down a white bathroom sink

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Baking Soda and Salt

If you don’t have any vinegar on hand, salt might just be your new best friend. Mix 1/2 cup of salt and 1/2 cup of baking soda together and pour down the drain. Let it sit for a minimum of half an hour or, if it’s a tougher clog, leave it overnight. Afterward, pour boiling water from a kettle down the drain. Voila! You can also check out our ultimate guide for disinfecting every surface of your house.

A woman leans over a kitchen sink with a rubber plunger

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Plunger

This technique is mainly for the kitchen sink, but can work in the bathroom as well. To get started, fill the sink halfway with warm tap water and then start plunging, preferably with a more bendy rubber version for easier mobility. Portable Utility Plunger, Amazon, $19.

Green, blue and white drain catchers in a stainless steel sink

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Drain Catcher

Prevent clogs from happening entirely by snapping up a chic and bright drain cover that’ll look adorable with the rest of your kitchen decor. Drain Catcher, Etsy, $13.

Four packages of drain cleaner sticks in blue, red, purple and yellow

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Non-Toxic Drain Cleaner Sticks

Save time (and money) with non-toxic cleaning sticks that stay inside the drain to help prevent build-up and odours. You only need one stick per month in order to keep drains clear of gunk. Non-Toxic Drain Cleaner Sticks, Amazon, $17.

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Drain Blaster

Blast those clogs into oblivion with this hand-held gadget that just might be the ultimate household appliance you didn’t know you needed. Squeezing the trigger releases enough high-pressure air to dislodge clogs in seconds. High-Pressure Air Power Drain Blaster, Amazon, $45.