how to unclog a double kitchen sink

How to Unclog a Double Kitchen Sink (With & Without Garbage Disposal)

We know that a kitchen sink eventually will clog no matter how good you are at maintaining them. That’s why it’s important to keep a sink plunger handy.

But what about a double sink with a garbage disposal? Or a double sink without a garbage disposal? Let me show you some simple techniques for handling these kinds of jobs.

Getting Started

Here’s everything you’ll need to unclog that kitchen double sink, whether it does or doesn’t have a garbage disposal:

  • Rubber gloves
  • Sink stopper
  • Petroleum jelly
  • A friend with an old rag
  • Sink (or flat) plunger

PRO TIP: First, notice that I called the plunger a “sink plunger.” You want to make sure the plunger you use is made for a flat surface like a sink drain. Do not use a toilet plunger. You can learn more about the correct use of plungers here.

How to Unclog a Double Kitchen Sink without Garbage Disposal

First, remove the sink strainer and, while wearing rubber gloves, clean out any debris that may be in the drain hole.

Now insert the sink stopper into the drain hole on the side that’s not clogged. Why is it important to do this? If you don’t, water will go from one sink to the other instead of forcing food particles through the drain.

Apply petroleum jelly to the rim of the plunger and place it directly over the drain hole. If the water in the sink does not cover the plunger cup, add enough water to do so.

Pump the plunger vigorously at least 10-12 times with each try.

how to unclog a double kitchen sink - diagram shows how to plunge double sink with no garbage disposal
This diagram indicates where to place the plunger (over the clogged drain sink) and the sink stopper (over the clear drain).

How to Unclog a Double Kitchen Sink with Garbage Disposal

This works for either a single or double kitchen sink attached to garbage disposal. Start by inserting the sink stopper into the drain hole of the sink that’s not clogged.

  1. If your sink has an air gap

    Block the water that would otherwise come through it while you’re plunging. And trust me, the water can shoot really far. An air gap is a chrome-fitting dome, about 3 inches tall, that sits next to the faucet. Its purpose is to prevent back slippage of contaminated water into the dishwasher.

    You can block the water by using either a small C-clamp to close off the hose that connects the air gap to the garbage disposal. If you don’t have a C-clamp, simply ask a friend or family member to hold an old rag over the air gap while you use the plunger.

  2. Apply petroleum jelly to the plunger

    Apply some petroleum jelly to the rim of the longer. This creates a more secure, watertight seal that in turn creates more plunging power. Place the plunger directly over the drain hole. Make sure you add enough water to cover the plunger cup.

  3. Start plunging

    Pump the plunger vigorously at least 10 to 12 times. Or until the water goes down the drain. You can have your friend remove the rag now.

how to unclog a double kitchen sink - diagram for single sink with garbage disposal
This diagram indicates where to place the C-clamp (or the old rag held by a friend) while you are plunging. This works for either a single sink or a double sink with garbage disposal.

What About a Single Sink with No Garbage Disposal?

Unclogging a single kitchen sink is easy.

Again, start by putting petroleum jelly on the rim of your plunger. Now place it over the drain hole. Keep the plunger in line with the drain hole for a more secure fit and productive plunging. Make sure the plunger cup is covered with water.

Now plunge up and down about a dozen times. Continue pumping until the problem is resolved.

How to unclog a double kitchen sink - illustration of single sink without garbage disposal
This diagram shows a simple single kitchen sink without garbage disposal. This is the easiest of the three methods to perform.

Resources

Final Thoughts

As you can see, unclogging a single or double kitchen sink — with or without a garbage disposal — is relatively easy for any DIYer. Even first-time homeowners can handle it.

If you do this on your own, we strongly recommend that you don’t unclog your kitchen double sink or kitchen single sink with chemicals. These store-bought products are often ineffective while making matters worse. They are so harsh that they can damage your drains and plumbing.

Of course, for truly stubborn clogs, you should always contact a plumber.

Call 1-Tom-Plumber

Don’t hesitate to contact us here or call us at 1-Tom-Plumber (1-866-758-6237) if you need help unclogging a double kitchen sink with garbage disposal.

1-Tom-Plumber’s certified team of plumbers and drain technicians respond immediately to any emergency plumbing, drain cleaning, or water damage problem. We also handle the excavation of underground water lines and sewer main lines. Our immediate-response team is available every day and night of the year, even on holidays.

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