Unclog a bathroom sink drain

Clear a slow or fully blocked bathroom sink in under an hour — no plumber required.

Last reviewed May 31, 2026 by the EveryDIY.ca editorial team

30–60 minutes $0–$20 CAD pricing

Unclog a bathroom sink drain

Most bathroom sink clogs are hair and soap scum trapped in the pop-up stopper or P-trap. You can usually clear them without harsh chemicals.

What you'll need

Adjustable pliers or channel locks
Bucket and old towels
Drain snake or zip-it tool ($5–$15 at Canadian Tire or Home Depot)
Rubber gloves

Steps

Try the stopper first. Lift it out — most twist or pull straight up. Remove the hair wrapped around it.
Use a zip-it tool. Push it down the drain, twist, and pull. Repeat until it comes out clean.
Clear the P-trap. Place a bucket under the curved pipe beneath the sink. Unscrew the slip nuts by hand or with pliers. Empty and rinse the trap, then reinstall.
Run hot water for 30 seconds to confirm flow.

Safety

Avoid chemical drain cleaners — they damage older Canadian copper and ABS plumbing and can splash back. If water still won't drain after clearing the trap, the blockage is in the wall stack — call a plumber.

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Editorial note. Wear appropriate PPE. When in doubt — especially with electrical, gas, or structural work — hire a licensed Canadian tradesperson. See our safety policy.