How to clear a slow-moving bathroom sink drain

Drainage is the unsung hero of bathroom comfort. When a sink starts to gurgle or drain like molasses, it is almost always due to a buildup of hair, skin cells, and soap scum caught at the pivot point of the stopper or within the P-trap beneath the basin. Restoring flow is a straightforward mechanical process that rarely requires chemicals. By manually clearing the blockage, you protect your pipes from the caustic damage of harsh cleaners and ensure that the water flows freely again in under an hour. When done well, your drain will snap back to full speed, and the sink will smell fresh and clear.

1. Release the stopper first. Reach into the drain and pull out the stopper. If it is a pop-up style, you may need to reach under the sink and loosen the nut connecting the pivot rod to the stopper, then wiggle it free.
2. Pull hair and gunk up. Use a pair of needle-nose pliers or a wire hook to pull out any hair or gunk trapped directly beneath the sink flange. Shine a flashlight down the drain to make sure the crosshairs at the base of the drain are clear.
3. Catch the water below. Place a bucket or a shallow basin directly under the P-trap. This will catch the water trapped in the pipe once you unscrew the slip nuts.
4. Loosen both slip nuts. Loosen the two slip nuts on either side of the P-trap using your hands or channel-lock pliers. Carefully lower the trap once the nuts are free, ensuring the water spills into your bucket.
5. Brush out soap buildup. Inspect the inside of the trap for clogs and wipe it out thoroughly with a paper towel. Run a bottle brush through the curved section to dislodge any stuck soap residue.
6. Test for leaks thoroughly. Slide the trap back into place, hand-tighten the slip nuts, and run the hot water for two minutes. Watch for any leaks at the connection points as the water flows.