How to Unclog Sinks, Bathtubs and Toilets in Your Rental Home
Clogged drains and toilets are a normal part of everyday home life. Thankfully, with guidance from our Service Technicians and a few simple tools, most minor blockages can be cleared quickly.
In this step-by-step guide, we’ll share practical, technician-approved tips to help you unclog sinks, bathtubs, and toilets with confidence.
How to Unclog a Sink or Bathtub Drain
If water is draining slowly, hair buildup is usually the cause. Fortunately, this is often an easy fix.
What You’ll Need
- Zip strip (also called a drain cleaning tool)
- Plastic or garbage bag
- Sink plunger (if needed)
Step 1: Remove the Drain Stopper
Take off the drain cap or stopper so you can access the drain opening. Depending on the style, you may need to lift it out, twist it off or unscrew it. Look down the drain to see if you can spot the blockage.
Step 2: Use a Zip Strip
Insert the zip strip into the drain and slowly pull it back out. The tool is designed to grab hair and debris stuck inside the pipe. Use a plastic bag to collect the debris as you remove it. Repeat this process several times until the zip strip comes out clean.
Step 3: Test the Drain
Run water to check whether the sink or tub is draining normally again.
- If the water flows freely, you’re all set!
- If the drain is still clogged, try using a plunger.
How to Unclog a Sink or Tub with a Plunger
For tougher clogs, a small sink plunger can help move the blockage through the pipe.
Step 1: Position the Plunger
Place the plunger over the drain and slowly press down to release the air inside. Allow water to fill the plunger cup.
Step 2: Create a Tight Seal
Make sure the plunger forms a good seal against the sink or tub surface.
Step 3: Plunge Carefully
Slowly push down on the plunger, then gently pull back up without breaking the seal. The suction created by the plunger helps loosen and move the clog. In many cases, one push-and-pull motion works, but it may take up to three attempts.
How to Unclog a Toilet
A clogged toilet is one of the most common household plumbing issues. Usually, a plunger is the quickest and easiest solution.
Step 1: Prepare the Plunger
Place the plunger into the toilet bowl and slowly compress it to remove trapped air and allow water into the cup.
Step 2: Form a Good Seal
Press the plunger firmly against the toilet drain opening to create a tight seal.
Step 3: Plunge the Toilet
Push down slowly, then pull back up while keeping the seal intact. The goal is to create suction that loosens the clog inside the pipe. Typically, one good plunge works. However, some clogs may require up to three attempts.
If the toilet is still clogged after plunging, it may be time to place a maintenance request or contact a professional.
Methods to Avoid
To protect your plumbing and avoid bigger issues, we do not recommend using:
- Chemical drain cleaners
- Compressed air tools
- Pipe snakes
These are often ineffective and can sometimes damage pipes or create more serious plumbing problems.
When to Place a Maintenance Request
Please contact maintenance if:
- Water will not drain at all
- Multiple drains are backing up
- The toilet remains clogged after plunging
- You notice leaking or overflowing water
Addressing plumbing issues early can help prevent larger repairs later.
Quick Drain Maintenance Tips
To help prevent future clogs:
- Use drain covers to catch hair
- Avoid flushing wipes, paper towels, or hygiene products
- Do not pour grease or food scraps down drains
- Clean drains regularly before buildup becomes severe
A few simple habits can keep the plumbing in your rental home flowing smoothly year-round.
Prefer a Video Tutorial?
If you’d rather follow along with a step-by-step video demonstration, we’ve got you covered. Watch our drain and toilet unclogging tutorial on YouTube here.
