How to Fix a Slow Draining Plughole: Easy DIY Solutions That Work

A slow draining plughole is one of the most common plumbing annoyances in any household. Whether it’s your kitchen sink, bathroom basin, or shower, a plughole that won’t drain properly is a clear sign of a partial blockage—and it won’t go away on its own.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to fix a slow draining plughole, step-by-step. Most blockages can be cleared quickly with household items or basic tools, saving you time, money, and a call to the plumber

What Causes a Slow Draining Sink or Shower?

The most common causes of slow draining plugholes include:

● Hair and soap scum (especially in bathroom and shower drains)

● Food waste, grease, and fat (in kitchen sinks)

● Limescale and debris build-up inside pipes

● Foreign objects stuck in the waste trap

● A partially blocked U-bend (trap) under the sink

Identifying the likely cause helps you choose the right method to clear it.

Steps to Recover

Step 1: Flush With Boiling Water

This is the quickest and easiest place to start—especially for grease-related kitchen blockages:

1. Boil a full kettle of water

2. Slowly pour it directly down the plughole in stages

3. Wait a few minutes and observe the drainage

Hot water helps melt grease and loosen residue, allowing it to flow through more freely. If the plughole is still draining slowly, move on to the next step.

Step 2: Use Baking Soda and Vinegar

This natural, chemical-free method is perfect for breaking down build-up inside pipes:

1. Pour half a cup of baking soda into the drain

2. Follow with half a cup of white vinegar

3. Cover the plughole with a cloth or plug and leave for 15–20 minutes

4. Flush with hot water

The fizzing reaction helps clear away soap scum, grime, and organic matter that slows drainage.

Step 3: Clean the Plughole and Stopper

In many cases, the blockage is just below the surface:

● Remove the plug or stopper and clean off hair or debris

● Use a small brush or an old toothbrush to scrub inside the plughole

● You can also bend a wire hanger into a hook shape and gently fish out trapped material

This is especially effective for shower and bathroom sinks where hair is the main culprit.

Step 4: Use a Plunger

For more stubborn blockages:

1. Partially fill the sink or shower with warm water

2. Place a plunger over the plughole and push down firmly

3. Plunge up and down 10–15 times to create pressure

4. Remove the plunger and test the drain

This method can dislodge clumps of hair or food trapped deeper in the pipe.

Step 5: Check and Clean the U-Bend (Trap)

If the blockage is still there, the issue may be in the U-bend (the curved pipe under the sink):

1. Place a bucket underneath to catch water

2. Unscrew the connectors by hand or with a wrench

3. Empty the contents and clean the pipe thoroughly

4. Reassemble and run hot water to test

This method is ideal for kitchen sinks, where food particles often collect in the trap.

Step 6: Use an Enzyme-Based Drain Cleaner (Optional)

For a non-corrosive, chemical-free option, you can use an enzyme-based drain cleaner:

● Follow product instructions

● Leave overnight for best results

● Flush with hot water in the morning

Avoid harsh chemical drain cleaners, as they can damage your pipes and are harmful to the environment.

When to Call a Plumber

You should contact a professional if:

● None of the above steps work

● You suspect a deeper blockage in the main pipe

● The plughole is draining very slowly or backing up

● You hear gurgling or smell foul odours from the drain

A licensed plumber can diagnose and clear complex blockages using specialist equipment.

Preventing Future Drain Problems

To keep your drains running freely:

● Use a hair catcher or drain cover in sinks and showers

● Avoid pouring fat, grease, or coffee grounds down the kitchen sink

● Regularly flush plugholes with hot water

● Use baking soda and vinegar monthly as maintenance

● Clean plugs and stoppers often

Conclusion
Fixing a slow draining plughole is usually quick and easy with the right approach. Whether it’s hair, grease, or soap scum, these DIY tips can restore proper drainage and help prevent future build-up.