How To Clean Gunk From Sink Drain In Cumbria

Are you experiencing slow drainage or backed-up sinks in your Cumbria home? The culprit may be an accumulation of gunk in your sink drain. Drainage Cumbria is here to help you with tips and tricks to tackle the problem of drain clogs caused by gunk buildup.

What is Gunk and How Does it Accumulate in Sink Drains?

Gunk is a buildup of dirt, hair, soap scum, and other debris that collects in sink drains over time. This accumulation can cause the sink to drain more slowly, or even become completely clogged. While it is normal for some gunk to accumulate over time, its essential to clean it out regularly to avoid a buildup that can lead to clogs.

Tools You Will Need for Cleaning Gunk from Your Sink Drain

Before you begin cleaning your sink drain, you will need the proper tools. Here is a list of things you will require:

1. Gloves
2. Goggles
3. Baking Soda
4. Boiling water
5. Wrench (if needed to remove sink stopper)

1. Wear Gloves and Goggles

When cleaning your sink drain, it's essential to protect your hands and eyes from any possible harm. Wear latex gloves to avoid skin irritation and protect your hands from any chemicals you may be using.

Goggles will protect your eyes from any debris that may splash during the cleaning process. This step is especially important if you are using any chemical cleaners.

2. Remove the Sink Stopper

Depending on the type of sink you have, you may need to remove the sink stopper to access the drain. Follow the manufacturer's instructions to remove the stopper and set it aside.

3. Remove the Gunk

Using your hands, remove as much gunk as possible from the sink drain. If the gunk is located far inside the drain, use a pair of pliers to pull it out.

If the gunk is located in the sink stopper, use a toothbrush or a scrubbing pad to clean it out. Make sure to rinse it thoroughly before reinstalling it.

4. Use Baking Soda and Boiling Water

Baking soda is an excellent cleaning agent that will help to dissolve any leftover gunk buildup in your sink drain. Start by pouring a half-cup of baking soda down the drain.

After ten minutes, pour a pan of boiling water down the sink to rinse off the baking soda and any leftover debris. Repeat the process if necessary.

Tips to Avoid Problematic Black Gunk Build-up in the Future

While it's impossible to prevent all gunk buildup, there are steps you can take to minimize it. Here are a few tips to keep your sink drain clear:

• Never pour hot grease, oil, or fat down the sink. Instead, let it cool and dispose of it in the trash.
• Use a drain stopper to prevent hair and other debris from going down the drain.
• Run hot water down the sink for a few minutes after each use to rinse away any debris before it accumulates.
• Add a quarter-cup of baking soda down the drain every few weeks to keep it clean.

Unclogging the Bathtub Drain

If you are experiencing clogs in your bathtub drain, the same steps above can be used. However, there are a few additional steps to ensure that it is unclogged.

Steps in Unclogging the Bathtub Drain:

1. Remove the drain stopper.
2. Fill the bathtub halfway with hot water.
3. Add a cup of baking soda and let it sit for 15 minutes.
4. Pour a cup of vinegar down the drain and plug the stopper immediately.
5. Allow the mixture to sit for 15 minutes.
6. Pour a pan of boiling water down the drain to rinse.

If your drain still doesn't unclog after these steps, it might be best to call a professional to fix the problem.

Conclusion

Gunk buildup in your sink drain can be a gross and frustrating problem. Following the steps outlined above, could help resolve the issue. If the problem persists, or if you are experiencing other drainage issues, contact Drainage Cumbria at 01228 734162 or visit our website, drainagecumbria.uk, to schedule an appointment as soon as possible. Don't let a clogged drain ruin your day. Let us help keep your sink and bathtub drains flowing freely.