A blocked kitchen sink is one of the most common household drainage issues in Bournemouth. But beyond the inconvenience, it’s often a sign of something more — a buildup of grease, food scraps, or structural damage in the pipework. If water is draining slowly or backing up completely, it’s important to act fast.
What causes a kitchen sink blockage?
Over time, everyday use of your kitchen sink allows all kinds of debris to enter the drain system. While food particles and soap residue might seem harmless, they combine with grease and oil to form stubborn clogs.
The most common causes include:
- Grease and fat deposits that cool and solidify inside the pipe
- Food scraps like pasta, rice, and fibrous vegetables
- Soap scum and detergent buildup, especially in hard water areas
- Coffee grounds, tea leaves, and small food particles
- Incorrect use of sink waste disposal units
In older Bournemouth homes, the problem may be made worse by narrow or partially collapsed pipework.
Why early signs matter
A fully blocked kitchen sink rarely happens overnight. Most blockages develop slowly, and catching the early signs can save you from a much messier situation.
Watch out for:
- Gurgling noises while water drains
- Standing water in the sink basin
- Unpleasant odours from the plughole
- Water draining much slower than usual
- Water rising when you run another tap or appliance
Ignoring these signals could lead to overflowing water, pipe stress, or water damage to units and floors.
Can you unblock it yourself?
Some mild blockages can be resolved without calling a professional. Here’s what you can try safely:
- Pour boiling water down the drain (only if your system uses metal pipes)
- Use a mix of bicarbonate of soda and vinegar, followed by hot water
- Apply suction using a plunger — effective for near-surface clogs
- Unscrew and clean out the U-bend (place a bowl underneath first)
- Use a manual drain snake if you’re confident and know where the blockage sits
If none of these solutions work, the drain blockage may be deeper in the system — or a symptom of structural issues.
When to call a drainage expert
If your sink is completely blocked, if DIY methods fail, or if you’re dealing with a recurring issue, it’s time to call in help. A professional team like Bournemouth Drains24 can carry out a CCTV inspection to check the condition of your kitchen pipework. We’ll identify any damage, clear out the blockage with specialist jetting tools, and make sure your system is draining efficiently again.
We operate 24/7 across Bournemouth and offer no call-out fees — just straightforward pricing and a reliable fix.
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Blocked kitchen sink FAQs
What causes kitchen sink blockages?
Grease and fat buildup is the number one cause. Food scraps, soap residue, and small debris like coffee grounds often contribute, especially when rinsed without strainers.
Can I pour boiling water down the sink?
Only if your pipes are metal. Plastic pipes can warp with heat. Use warm water instead if you’re unsure of the system type.
How do I clear the U-bend safely?
Place a bucket or tray underneath, unscrew the connectors by hand (or with a wrench if needed), and flush out debris. Wear gloves and rinse it well before reassembling.
Why does my sink keep blocking repeatedly?
There could be a partial obstruction deeper in the system or structural problems like pipe displacement or scale buildup. A CCTV drain survey can identify long-term issues.
