REFRESHIFY

A clogged kitchen sink always seems to strike at the worst time, right before guests arrive, or in the middle of prepping dinner. But clogs don’t just happen overnight. They build up over time, usually due to things we unknowingly allow down the drain.

Let’s break down the top 10 common causes of kitchen sink clogs—plus simple steps you can take to fix or prevent them.

1. Grease and Cooking Oil

When hot grease cools, it solidifies in your pipes, coating them with a sticky film that traps food and debris.

Fix it: Pour boiling water down the drain, followed by baking soda and vinegar. Avoid dumping grease—wipe pans with paper towels and toss in the trash.

2. Food Scraps

Even if you have a garbage disposal, large or fibrous scraps like pasta, rice, or vegetable peels can jam up your drain.

Fix it: Use a sink strainer and compost when possible. Never rely solely on the disposal to grind everything.

3. Soap Scum

Over time, soap residue can mix with minerals in water, creating a thick gunk that narrows your pipes.

Fix it: Rinse drains regularly with hot water and vinegar. Use less soap or switch to a liquid version that dissolves better.

4. Coffee Grounds

They clump together in water and easily stick to grease buildup, worsening blockages.

Fix it: Compost coffee grounds or toss them in the trash—not the sink.

5. Eggshells

The shells themselves may seem harmless, but their gritty texture can damage disposal blades and get caught in grease.

Fix it: Always discard eggshells in the trash or compost, never the sink.

6. Starchy Foods (Rice, Pasta, Potatoes)

These expand in water and become a sticky mess that clogs pipes fast.

Fix it: Scrape leftovers into the trash. Run cold water before, during, and after using the disposal to keep things moving.

8. Dishwasher Gunk

Grease, soap scum, and food particles from your dishwasher can back up into your sink.

Fix it: Clean your dishwasher’s filter monthly and run a vinegar rinse cycle to break down buildup.

9. Foreign Objects

Spoons, rings, or kids’ toys falling into the drain can easily block the pipe.

Fix it: Retrieve items carefully or call a plumber. Prevent it by using a sink cover when not in use.

10. Old or Damaged Pipes

Older plumbing can accumulate years of buildup, rust, or mineral deposits that narrow the passage for water.

Fix it: For persistent clogs, it may be time for a professional drain cleaning or pipe replacement.

How to Unclog a Sink (Quick DIY Steps):

• Boiling Water: Great for grease and soap scum.
• Baking Soda + Vinegar: Natural fizzing solution. Let it sit, then rinse with hot water.
• Plunger: A few firm pumps can dislodge minor clogs.
• Drain Snake or Zip-It Tool: Useful for deeper blockages.
• Call a Pro: If the clog doesn’t budge or keeps returning, don’t wait—it could get worse.

Refresh Your Kitchen, Not Just the Sink

At Refreshify, we don’t just fix clogs—we transform kitchens. Whether you're prepping your home for market or just tired of that dated sink and counter combo, we offer pay-at-closing home improvements that boost value and livability—no upfront cost.

From minor fixes to full kitchen makeovers, Refreshify helps you refresh now, sell for more, and pay later.

📍 Proudly serving Snohomish, King, and Pierce Counties

Contact us today for a free consultation!