How to Fix a Slow-Draining Kitchen Sink

Clear the blockage by removing visible debris from the drain, using a plunger specifically designed for sinks, or dismantling the P-trap under the sink to remove accumulated grease and food particles.

1. Fish Out the Obvious. Remove the drain strainer or stopper if possible. Use your hands or needle-nose pliers to pull out any visible food particles, hair, or debris from the drain opening. Run hot water for 30 seconds to see if this simple step resolves the issue.
2. Melt the Grease Away. Boil a large pot of water and add several squirts of grease-cutting dish soap. Pour the mixture down the drain in two or three stages, allowing it to work for a few minutes between pours. The hot water helps dissolve grease while the soap breaks down fatty buildup.
3. Force the Blockage Free. If you have a double sink, plug the other drain completely with a wet rag. Place a cup plunger designed for flat surfaces over the slow drain, ensuring a good seal. Plunge vigorously 10-15 times, then quickly pull the plunger away. The suction often dislodges stubborn clogs.
4. Extract the Hidden Sludge. Place a bucket under the curved pipe beneath your sink. Loosen the slip nuts on both ends of the P-trap using channel lock pliers, turning counterclockwise. Remove the trap and dump contents into the bucket. Scrub the inside with an old toothbrush and hot soapy water to remove all grease and debris buildup.
5. Hunt Down Stubborn Debris. With the P-trap removed, look into the horizontal pipe that enters the wall. Use a flashlight to check for visible blockages. If you see debris, use a drain snake or straightened coat hanger to pull it out. Avoid pushing debris further into the pipe.
6. Confirm Water Flows Free. Reinstall the clean P-trap, ensuring slip nuts are hand-tight plus a quarter turn with pliers. Don't overtighten as this can crack the fittings. Run water to check for leaks, then test drainage with a full sink of water to ensure the problem is resolved.