Dealing with a clogged drain is extremely frustrating. It can turn an ordinary day into a terrible one very quickly.

But don’t worry – we have some great tips to help you clear that stubborn clog yourself using common household items.

If that doesn’t work, calling a professional plumber is always a good option too. They have the skills and tools to quickly get your drains flowing freely again.

The Trusty Plunger

Our first recommendation is to try using a simple plunger. This inexpensive tool creates suction that can dislodge the blockage and get things moving once more.

If you have a clogged sink, get a cup plunger designed for sinks. First empty the sink of excess water. Remove the drain cover/stopper. Place the plunger directly over the drain opening to create a tight seal.

Apply firm downward pressure while also using an up and down pumping motion. Repeat for around one minute. This should build up enough suction force to dislodge most clogs. Be sure to give a few final solid pumps to finish.

Check if the water is now draining. But if it’s still blocked, a professional may be needed.

Vinegar and Baking Soda to the Rescue

If plunging doesn’t solve the problem, try using vinegar and baking soda. This natural homemade drain cleaner is highly effective at breaking up gunk and debris. Start by pouring 1/3 to 1 full cup of baking soda down the clogged drain.

Let it make its way down the pipes. Next pour in an equal amount of vinegar and watch the fun begin! The combination will activate, fizzing and bubbling as it works to dissolve the clog.

Let the magic potion sit for 10-15 minutes then rinse with hot water to flush away any remaining buildup. You may need to repeat this process several times for stubborn backups. But it’s an inexpensive and safe DIY method worth trying.

Removing Tangled Hair Clogs

Hair is one of the most common causes of clogged drains. All that hair from bathing, shaving, and grooming inevitably ends up going down the drain.

Over time, it accumulates and tangles into a gross wadblocking the pipes. You can manually remove hair clogs using a small bent wire coat hanger or a special drain snake/auger tool.

Carefully insert the end into the drain opening and fish around for hair bundles. Slowly pull out the clump of tangled hair. Keep repeating until water flows freely. It’s a simple process that takes some patience but is very effective.

Clearing the P-Trap

Many sink clogs occur in the curved P-trap pipe directly underneath. This area collects hair, soap scum, debris, and even lost items like earrings or rings. Unfortunately, P-trap cleaning is best left to qualified plumbers.

They have the skills to remove and disassemble the pipe without causing any damage. Begin by shutting off the water supply valves. Place a bucket to catch water. Loosen the slip nuts holding the curved section to the sink and wall.

Carefully detach the P-trap and drain out its contents. Use a small brush or pipe cleaner to scrub away any gunk inside. Reassemble and reconnect everything tightly. Turn the water back on and test for leaks. Call a plumber if you have any doubts about doing this yourself.

Boiling Water to Loosen Gunk

Pouring boiling hot water down the drain can also help clear away grease, soap scum, food waste and other gunky buildup. Stopper the sink and remove any standing water already inside. Heat a large pot of water to a rapid boil on the stove.

Carefully pour it into the drain opening. Let it sit for 5+ minutes so the heat can melt and dissolve the clogging mess. Follow with plenty of cold water to flush it away. You may need to repeat the boiling water treatment several times for a thorough cleaning.

For extra power against heavy grease, mix 1/3 cup washing detergent into the hot water. The soap will cut through oily grime. Combining hot water with plunging is an effective one-two punch against stubborn clogs.

Call the Experts for Serious Clogs

If you’ve tried all the DIY methods without success, don’t keep struggling – call in a professional plumber! The team at Day & Night Plumbing has all the high-powered tools and know-how to tackle even severe clogs and restore full drainage.

We can clear any type of blockage in sinks, tubs, showers and toilets. Our arsenal includes drain snakes, high-pressure water jetting, suction cups, and more. We’ll also inspect your pipes with a sewer camera to check for damaged sections that might need repair or replacement.

No household plumbing challenge is too great for our experts! Day & Night Plumbing provides 24-hour emergency service too for those inevitable middle-of-the-night clog crises.

Don’t let drain problems ruin your day – call us anytime at 505-974-5797 for fast friendly help!