How to Unblock a Drain

Introduction (common causes and warning signs)

Slow draining, gurgling and smells point to a partial blockage from hair, soap scum, fats and coffee grounds. Start with the simplest, safest steps and work up.

What this involves (11‑step plan)

1. Boiling water (kitchen sinks only; avoid on PVC traps if unsure) to melt fats
2. Remove and clean the trap (place a bowl, unscrew by hand, clear sludge, reseat washers)
3. Plunger: Cover overflow with a damp cloth for a better seal; plunge 20–30 seconds
4. Baking soda + vinegar (gentle fizz) followed by hot water
5. Bottle brush/zip strip for hair in basins and baths
6. Wet‑dry vacuum (if available) to pull out debris
7. Drain snake: Feed gently, rotate to hook hair, withdraw slowly
8. Outside gully check (kitchen): Clear leaves/sludge; never push debris into the drain
9. Avoid harsh chemicals; they can damage seals and create hazards for pros later
10. Test and reseal traps, ensuring no leaks
11. Disinfect surfaces and wash hands/tools

What can affect price

• Access and trap type (bottle, P‑trap, pop‑up wastes)
• Length of hair/soap build‑up; long snaking takes time
• External gullies and shared stacks may require specialist jetting

Guide costs (typical):

• DIY materials: £5–£25
• Plumber to clear common blockage: £80–£150
• Jetting for external lines: £150–£300

How long it takes & prevention

• DIY clear: 20–60 minutes
• Pro clear: 30–90 minutes

Prevention: Sink strainers, avoid fats/oils in sinks, weekly hot water flush, clean hair traps and pop‑up wastes regularly.

DIY vs hire a pro

DIY works for most basin/sink/bath blockages. Call a pro for repeated clogs, foul smells from soil stacks, collapsed pipes, or if multiple fixtures back up at once (may indicate a main drain issue).

Next steps

1. Work through the 11 steps in order
2. If not cleared, send photos/video of trap and gully to a local pro
3. Adopt weekly prevention habits to avoid a repeat