Clearing a slow drain without harsh chemicals

1. Clean the stopper

Pull out or unscrew the pop-up stopper and clean off hair and buildup. This alone often restores normal flow in bathroom sinks.

2. Use a plunger

Cover the overflow opening with a damp cloth, fill the basin with a little water and plunge firmly. For double kitchen sinks, block the second drain.

3. Remove and rinse the trap

Place a bucket underneath, loosen the slip nuts and take the P-trap off. Rinse it out, check the washers and refit it hand-tight plus a quarter turn.

4. Try a drain snake

If the clog is further down the line, feed a hand snake into the drain arm, turn it to catch the blockage and pull it back out.

Parts for this job: Drains & Traps.