Clearing Sink Drains with a Plunger

Sinks get clogged and backed up when soap, hair and grease build up and clog the trap or the drain line. When that happens, don't reach for the drain cleaner. Instead, try to clear the drain by cleaning gunk off the sink stopper or plunging the sink.

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Steps

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Step One

Take the stopper out of the sink. Some pop-up stoppers lift out directly; others turn counterclockwise. Some older stoppers have a pivot rod that has to be removed. Under the sink, you'll see a locking nut where the rod enters the drain pipe. Remove the nut, and pull the rod out.

Step Two

Stuff a wet rag in the sink overflow opening. This prevents air from escaping as you work with the plunger. Place the plunger cup over the drain opening, and run enough water to cover the rubber cup. Move the plunger up and down rapidly to clear the clog.

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