Just 7 Steps to Unclog a Kitchen Sink with Garbage Disposal

Homeowners who regularly utilize their kitchens will inevitably encounter the dreaded clogged kitchen sink, and this sentiment is only exacerbated, especially if your kitchen sink is equipped with a garbage disposal. Whether you have a multi function kitchen sink, a one bowl kitchen sink, a double bowl kitchen sink, or even a stainless steel drop in utility sink, a clogged drain can slow down your day. In this blog, we'll walk you through some simple steps to unclog your kitchen sink, even if you live in a mobile home or have a 30-inch kitchen sink (in more detail). So let's get started - and get your sink back to normal without having to call a professional.

Step 1: Safety First and Initial Inspection

Before you begin, be sure to unplug the garbage disposal or turn off the switch for safety reasons. After turning off the garbage disposal, start with an initial check for any visible clogs near the drain. Sometimes food scraps or other debris may be seen all at once, which can then be cleaned simply by hand (Please Wear Gloves!) .

Step 2: Clear the Garbage Disposal

Often, the problem isn't that the pipes are completely clogged, but that a lot of food waste has built up in the garbage disposal. So start by carefully sweeping up any large pieces of food or crumbs you see. Use tongs if necessary. For multi function kitchen sinks, where the disposal is part of a more complex setup, take extra care around the disposal blades. Remember that even a small obstruction can slow down the water flow in sinks such as a one bowl kitchen sink or a double bowl kitchen sink.

Step 3: Use a Plunger

Plungers are not just for toilets; they can also be used to effectively unclog kitchen sinks. Fill the sink with a few inches of water to make a good sealing space. Place the plunger on the drain and give it a few firm pumps. This step will loosen any blockage in the drain. For larger sinks, like a 30 inch kitchen sink or even a stainless steel drop in utility sink, ensure the plunger completely covers the drain. You may need to repeat this a few times until water can flow freely.

Step 4: Check the Drain Trap

If Step 3 doesn't solve the problem either, the next step is to check the drain elbow (the curved pipe under the sink). With increased use, grease, food particles, and other debris can build up in this area, which can impede water flow. Place a bucket under the elbow and use a wrench to loosen the sliding nuts on each end. Remove the elbow and rinse thoroughly with warm soapy water. Rinse off any debris and inspect the elbow for any signs of damage or excessive buildup. This step is crucial whether you’re working with mobile home kitchen sinks, a one bowl kitchen sink, or even a multi function kitchen sink.

Step 5: Flush with Hot Water

Once you’ve cleaned the drain trap, reassemble it and then run a stream of hot water through the sink. Hot water can help melt away any lingering grease and flush out any small particles that may remain in the pipes. For those with a double bowl kitchen sink, ensure that both basins get a thorough rinse. In some cases, you might need to do this several times to completely clear the blockage.

Step 6: Natural Cleaning Solutions

If the clog persists, consider using a natural cleaning solution. A common method is to pour half a cup of baking soda directly into the drain, followed by one cup of white vinegar. Allow the mixture to fizz and sit for about 15 minutes. This reaction can help break down grease and grime. After waiting, flush the drain again with hot water. This simple remedy works well for most sinks, whether you’re dealing with a stainless steel drop in utility sink or a multi function kitchen sink that gets heavy use.

Step 7: Regular Maintenance Tips

Prevention is the best cure. To avoid future clogs, make it a habit to clean your garbage disposal regularly. Run cold water for a few seconds before and after using the disposal to help clear out any remnants. Consider grinding a few ice cubes occasionally—this can help sharpen the disposal blades and remove buildup. Additionally, be mindful of what goes down your drain. Avoid pouring large amounts of grease or fibrous food scraps that might get tangled in the disposal.

For mobile home kitchen sinks or smaller setups like a one bowl kitchen sink, regular maintenance is even more important since clogs can develop quickly in compact systems. If you own a double bowl kitchen sink, alternating between the basins and keeping a consistent cleaning routine will help maintain smooth water flow.

Conclusion

Low water flow from your kitchen sink can affect your daily life, but most clogging problems are easily solved with a little patience and effort. If you've tried unclogging, cleaning stock bends and using natural cleaners to no avail, it's time to call a professional plumber. Persistent clogs can sometimes be a sign of a more serious problem in the plumbing system that requires specialized tools and expertise to fix.

At Voriva, we're committed to providing practical and easy-to-follow advice to keep your kitchen running as usual. Visit Vorivavida.com for more insights.