How to Unclog a Bathroom Sink Drain

A slow or clogged bathroom sink can quickly become an annoyance. Whether it’s water pooling around your toothbrush or a funky smell rising from the drain, you don't want to ignore it. Luckily, many clogged sinks can be fixed with simple tools and a little know-how. If all else fails, Mr. Rooter Plumbing is just a call away for professional clogged drain cleaning help.

What Causes a Clogged Bathroom Sink?

Before jumping into the fix, it helps to understand what causes these clogs in the first place. Bathroom sinks often get blocked by things like:

Hair buildup
Soap scum
Toothpaste
Dirt and grime
Jewelry or small objects accidentally dropped

Over time, these things stick together and form a nasty blockage. While it might start small, it can eventually stop water from draining altogether.

Step 1: Remove the Stopper

Most bathroom sinks have a stopper—the little plug you push down to close the drain. That stopper is often where hair and gunk collect. Here’s how to take it out:

Look under the sink for a small rod attached to the drainpipe.
Unscrew the nut holding the rod in place.
Gently pull out the rod and remove the stopper from the top of the sink.

Once it’s out, wipe off any built-up hair or debris.

Step 2: Boil Some Water

One of the easiest first steps is using boiling water. It might not solve the whole problem, but it’s a good place to start. Heat a kettle of water and carefully pour it down the drain. The hot water can melt grease or break down some softer clogs. Give it a few minutes to work.

Step 3: Use a Plunger

A small sink plunger can be a big help with a clogged drain. Ensure a bit of water is in the sink to help create suction. Then:

Place the plunger over the drain.
Push down firmly and pull up quickly.
Repeat several times.

With luck, the pressure will loosen the blockage.

Step 4: Try Baking Soda and Vinegar

If the plunger doesn’t work, use a chemical-free option that’s safe for pipes.

Pour 1/2 cup of baking soda down the drain.
Follow it with 1/2 cup of vinegar.
Plug the drain and wait about 15 minutes.
Flush it with hot water.

This fizzy combo can work wonders on small clogs and funky smells.

Step 5: Use a Drain Snake

Is the drain still clogged? It's time to bring out a drain snake or a zip-it tool. This long, bendable tool is made to grab hair and other stuff hiding deep in the drain.

Push the tool down the drain slowly.
Twist it to catch the clog.
Pull it out and clean it off.

Repeat a few times until the water starts draining better.

When to Call a Pro

If you’ve tried all this and the sink is still slow, it might be time to call a plumber in Arlington, TX. Some clogs are deep in the pipes or connected to other issues you can’t see. A professional plumbing service has special tools and cameras that can find the real problem and fix it fast.

Mr. Rooter Plumbing is one of the trusted names in the industry. Their team has helped thousands of homeowners with tough sink clogs, leaky pipes, and full-house plumbing service needs. Whether it’s a hidden hairball or a damaged pipe, they have the know-how to solve it without causing more damage.

Preventing Future Clogs

Once your sink is clear, let’s keep it that way. Here are a few quick tips:

Use a drain cover to catch hair and debris.
Don’t pour grease or oils down the bathroom sink.
Rinse with hot water regularly.
Clean the stopper once a week.

Doing a little now can save you from a bigger mess later.

Need Help with a Stubborn Sink?

If your bathroom sink is still giving you trouble or you just don’t want to deal with the mess, there’s no shame in calling a pro. Mr. Rooter Plumbing has the experience, tools, and friendly service you need. They've got your back for expert clogged drain cleaning and reliable help from a licensed plumber. Let them take care of the mess so you can return to your day!