It’s a situation every Houston homeowner dreads. You finish washing the dishes, pull the plug, and... nothing happens. The greasy, smelly water just sits there, bringing your daily routine to a screeching halt.

A clogged kitchen sink is one of the most common plumbing problems we see, but it doesn't have to ruin your day. Before you pick up the phone, there are a couple of safe, simple DIY methods you can try. But it's also crucial to know when the problem is bigger than it looks.

Here’s your step-by-step guide to tackling that stubborn clog and knowing when it's time to call in the professionals.

First: Stop and Prep

Before you do anything, stop running any more water down the sink! You don’t want an overflow. It's also a good idea to clear everything out from under the sink to give yourself room to work and protect your belongings from any potential drips. Grab a pair of rubber gloves—things might get messy.

DIY Method #1: The Trusty Plunger

This is your first line of defense. But there’s a right way to do it for maximum effect.

For a Double Sink: Securely block the drain on the other side of the sink. A wet rag stuffed into the drain works perfectly. You need to create a seal to direct all the pressure toward the clog.

Add Water: If there isn't already standing water, add a few inches of hot water to the clogged side—enough to submerge the cup of the plunger. The water helps create a stronger seal.

Plunge Away: Place the plunger over the clogged drain, ensuring a tight seal. Push down and pull up in a vigorous, vertical motion for about 20-30 seconds. You’re using water pressure to dislodge the clog.

Check Your Work: Remove the plunger and see if the water begins to drain. If it drains slowly, repeat the process. If it clears, flush the drain with hot water for a few minutes to wash away any remaining residue.

DIY Method #2: The Natural Fizz-Clean (Baking Soda & Vinegar)

If the plunger didn't work, or you want to avoid the splash-back, this classic science fair volcano can work wonders on grease and food buildup. This method works best if you can remove most of the standing water first.

1. Clear the Water: Scoop or bail out as much of the standing water from the sink as possible.

2. Baking Soda First: Pour about one cup of baking soda directly into the drain opening.

3. Add Vinegar: Follow it with one cup of plain white vinegar. The mixture will immediately start to fizz and bubble. This chemical reaction (NaHCO3​+CH3​COOH) is excellent at breaking down grime and buildup.

4. Let it Work: Place a drain stopper over the opening to keep the reaction contained below the surface. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes (an hour is even better).

5. Hot Water Flush: Boil a kettle of water. Pour the boiling water slowly down the drain to flush away everything the reaction loosened.

A Major Warning: Step Away from Chemical Drain Cleaners

It can be tempting to reach for a bottle of harsh liquid drain cleaner, but most professional plumbers will tell you to avoid it. Here's why:

• Pipe Damage: These caustic chemicals can corrode your pipes, especially in older Houston homes with galvanized steel or cast iron plumbing. This can turn a simple clog into a costly pipe replacement.

• Toxicity: The fumes are hazardous to you, your family, and your pets.

• They Often Fail: On tough clogs, the chemicals just sit on top of the blockage, concentrating their corrosive power on one section of your pipe. If a plumber then needs to work on it, they are dealing with a sink full of dangerous chemicals.

When to Hang Up the Plunger and Call a Pro

You’ve given it your best shot, but the sink is still clogged. It's time to call for professional help. You likely have a more serious blockage located further down the line.

Call a plumber immediately if you notice any of these red flags:

• Multiple Drains are Clogged: If your dishwasher backs up into the sink, or if nearby bathroom sinks or toilets are also draining slowly, the problem isn't in your sink—it's in your main sewer line. This requires professional equipment to clear.

• The Clog Keeps Coming Back: If you’re constantly fighting the same clog every few weeks, there's an underlying issue that DIY methods won't solve.

• Foul Odor Persists: A strong, sewer-like smell that doesn't go away indicates a problem deep within your drainage system.

• Gurgling Noises: When you run water in the kitchen sink, do you hear a gurgling sound coming from your toilet or shower drain? That's a classic sign of a blocked sewer line struggling for air.

Don't let a stubborn clog disrupt your life. If you've tried these tips and are still staring at a sink full of murky water, we're here to help.

Stuck with a clog that won't budge? The expert plumbers at Hugo Plumbing have the tools and experience to get your drains flowing freely again. Call us today at 713-409-7176 or schedule your service online!