One of the most common issues you will come across within the home is a blocked plug.

Whether it is in the bathroom or the kitchen, the plug will likely become blocked at some point. This includes sinks, baths and showers. The most common causes include hair and food waste. If the water is taking a while to drain, we have a few handy tips to help you out.

How To Unblock The Plug

• In order to unblock the plug, lift or unscrew the plug and remove any visible blockages. As mentioned earlier, this can be in the form of food or human hair, or may even be something else! This step is often the worst… It can be pungent.
• There are a number of well-known branded chemicals that can be poured down the plug. These can be shop bought and are available in most supermarkets. However, be sure to check that they are effective and proven as some plumbers and drainage experts don’t always approve of them.
• Other alternatives that you can pour down the sink include a mixture of hot water and a small amount of salt. This should be allowed to settle for a minute and then washed away with more hot water.
• Bicarbonate soda and white vinegar may also clear the blocked plug. The soda fizzes as it hits the wet pipes, allowing for the vinegar to encourage any blockages to dislodge and wash away.
• Some experts have advised that hair removal cream may help dislodge hairs if it is left down the plug hole for 30 minutes or even longer.
• If all else fails, it may be time to call a professional. Plumbers or drainage experts have all the tools needed to unblock your plug, including a Plumber’s Snake or rods. They also have a wealth of chemicals that will do the trick!