How to Unblock a Sink Without Calling a Plumber

Blocked sinks are frustrating and can disrupt your whole kitchen or bathroom routine. Fortunately, not all blockages require a call to the plumber — many minor clogs can be cleared with basic tools and a little know-how. Here's a quick guide to help you tackle simple blockages safely.

Here are safe and simple steps you can try first:

Avoid harsh chemicals like supermarket drain cleaners. These can damage pipes and make blockages worse.

Call a plumber if:

Water won’t drain at all, or if multiple fixtures are blocked — it could be a deeper issue.

Unblocking a sink can be satisfying, but knowing your limits is key. If your DIY efforts haven’t worked or you're unsure about the problem, it's always better to get a licensed plumber involved before the issue worsens.