The Most Common Reasons Why Your Bathroom Sink Is Clogged

No one wants to deal with a clogged bathroom sink. Once the water starts backing up, you start worrying why the sink is clogged — again — and how you'll be able to fix it so you can go back to performing necessary tasks like washing your hands and getting ready for the day. Unfortunately, there isn't a single cause for a clogged bathroom sink, so you might need to do a bit of sleuthing to determine the reason and work to clear the clog. However, some reasons are more likely than others. 

When speaking exclusively with House Digest, Joseph Wade, the vice president of operations at Benjamin Franklin Plumbing, highlighted a few of these reasons. Hair buildup is one of the most common causes of a clog. "Over time, strands of hair can combine with soap scum and other debris, forming a thick mass that obstructs the flow of water," Wade shared.

Let's take an in-depth look at the other common reasons for a clogged bathroom sink that Wade identified, explaining why each can be problematic for your bathroom. We'll also share some of Wade's pointers for clearing the clog yourself — and help you understand the signs that it's time to call in a professional plumber for the bathroom.

Hair buildup is just one of the potential things that can cause your bathroom sink to clog. You may already know about many of the horrors that hard water can cause in your home, but did you know it can also contribute to clogged drains? During an exclusive interview with House Digest, Joseph Wade explained why mineral buildup can spell trouble. "In areas with hard water, mineral deposits can accumulate in the pipes over time. These deposits can restrict water flow and lead to slow draining sinks," said Wade. 

Soap scum — your arch nemesis that causes all sorts of problems in your shower — could also be to blame for a clogged sink drain. Wade explained, "Soap combined with hard water can lead to the formation of soap scum. This thick, sticky substance can adhere to the walls of the drain, narrowing the passage and slowing down the water flow."

According to the expert, it is also possible that your clogged sink is related to a larger plumbing problem, such as collapsed or otherwise damaged pipes. "While less common, physical damage to the plumbing can also cause drainage issues," he said. "This could be due to aging pipes, tree root intrusion, or external pressure. In such cases, it's crucial to consult with a professional plumber to assess and address the damage." Finally, don't rule out a foreign object as the cause of the clog. Wade said, "Sometimes, small objects like jewelry, toothpaste caps, or children's toys can accidentally fall into the sink and cause a blockage."

One of the suggestions from plumbing expert Joseph Wade highlighted some all-natural ingredients that you can use to clear a clogged drain: white vinegar and baking soda. "When these two ingredients react, they produce carbon dioxide, which creates a fizzing action that can help break down the gunk and debris in your drain," he shared when speaking exclusively with House Digest. Remove any standing water, and then, Wade said, "Pour ¼ cup of baking soda directly into the drain. Try to distribute it evenly so it coats the walls of the pipe. [Then,] slowly pour 1¼ cup of white vinegar into the drain." Give the ingredients time to react and work (about 20 to 30 minutes) before flushing the drain with boiling water and testing to see if the clog is cleared.

Another method is using a plunger. "The suction created by a plunger can help dislodge blockages, making it a go-to solution for many homeowners," Wade explained. He recommended using a flat or cup plunger to clear a clogged sink. Remove the stopper and add about an inch of water over the drain (if needed). Then, Wade said, "Place the plunger in position, press down and pull up vigorously for about 15 seconds."

While vinegar and baking soda or a plunger will help you clear many clogs, they might not solve every issue. "When faced with a particularly stubborn blockage that doesn't respond to other methods, a drain snake, also known as a plumber's auger, can be your best ally. This tool is designed to reach deep into your drain, hook onto the clog, and pull it out," explained Wade.

Even when you know the best ways to clear a clogged drain, it isn't something you want to do regularly. Changing your routine to prevent future clogs can go a long way. "Consider using the baking soda and vinegar method once a month as a preventive measure," expert Joseph Wade shared during his exclusive interview with House Digest. "Regular maintenance can help you avoid more severe blockages and keep your sink draining smoothly. The vinegar and baking soda method is not only effective but also environmentally friendly."

Another preventative measure that he highlighted is adding a drain strainer to your sink. "This can help catch debris like hair and prevent it from going down the drain," Wade said.

While there is a lot you can do on your own to prevent and clear a clogged drain, it's also important to understand your limits and identify when an issue is beyond your skill or expertise level. Wade recommended, "You should contact a professional plumber for a clogged drain when DIY methods fail, when clogs are persistent or recurring, or if you notice foul odors, strange gurgling noises, or wastewater backing up."