How to Fix a Slow-Draining Bathroom Sink

Drainage issues in the bathroom usually signal a collection of hair, soap scum, and toothpaste residue lodged just beneath the sink stopper or in the curved pipe underneath. A sluggish sink is more than a nuisance; if left unaddressed, the blockage will harden into a stubborn plug that traps bacteria and odors in your bathroom cabinet. Fixing this is a mechanical task that requires no harsh chemicals, which often damage pipes and seals over time. By manually clearing the obstruction, you ensure the plumbing stays healthy and the water flows freely. You only need a few minutes and a bucket to catch the water that will inevitably spill when you open the line.

1. Expose the drain line. Most bathroom stoppers can be removed by unscrewing the cap or, if it is a lever-style, by reaching under the sink to unscrew the pivot nut. Lift the stopper assembly straight out of the drain opening.
2. Scrub away the buildup. Wipe away the gunk, hair, and slime from the stopper assembly using a paper towel. Rinse it thoroughly under hot water before setting it aside.
3. Fish out the clog. Use a small plastic drain snake or a bent wire hanger to hook any remaining debris inside the drain pipe. Pull the material upward and out of the drain rather than pushing it down.
4. Contain the spillage. Place a bucket directly beneath the P-trap, the curved pipe section located under your sink. This will catch the water remaining in the trap once you loosen the slip nuts.
5. Disconnect the trap pipe. Loosen the two slip nuts on either side of the P-trap by turning them counter-clockwise by hand or with channel-lock pliers. Carefully pull the trap downward to empty the contents into your bucket.
6. Test for water flow. Clean the inside of the trap pipe with a bottle brush. Once clear, slide the trap back into place, hand-tighten the slip nuts, and run the hot water to check for leaks.