DIY guideSink drain

Unclog a sink with a plunger

Get a slow or blocked sink draining again with a cup plunger and hot water.

5 steps

Tap a step to watch it again.

Lift or twist the stopper out of the drain and clear away any hair or gunk you can reach.
Plug the overflow hole near the rim with a wet cloth, or close the other drain of a double sink, so the push goes down the drain.
Run enough water to cover the plunger's cup. Seal it over the drain and pump firmly up and down a dozen times or more, then pull it away sharply.
If you've poured a drain cleaner in, don't plunge: it can splash onto your skin and eyes.
Run hot tap water for a minute. If it still drains slowly, plunge another round.
If it's still blocked after a few rounds, or water backs up into another sink or the tub, stop and ask Handyman for a plumber.

Handyman says: Still blocked? I'll find a plumber.

Free for every home. Handyman asks a few questions, then books a pro it trusts.