How to Unblock a Drain: Step-by-Step Guide from the Experts

Blocked drains are one of the most common plumbing issues homeowners face. Whether it’s a slow-draining sink, a blocked shower, or an overflowing outside drain, knowing what to do before calling a professional can save you time and prevent further damage.

At DM Emergency Plumbing, we’ve helped hundreds of homeowners across Northampton and nearby areas with emergency drain unblocking, repairs, and maintenance. Here’s our expert guide to help you safely unblock a drain.

1. Identify the Type of Blockage

Start by figuring out where the blockage is.

• Inside drains: These affect sinks, toilets, showers, or baths.
• Outside drains: You may notice standing water, unpleasant smells, or multiple fixtures draining slowly.

If more than one fixture is affected, it usually means there’s a main drain blockage.

2. Try Hot Water and Detergent

For small blockages caused by grease or soap, pour a kettle of hot water and washing-up liquid down the drain. This helps melt and break up buildup.
(Avoid boiling water on plastic pipes — use very hot tap water instead.)

3. Use a Plunger

Place a plunger firmly over the drain opening and plunge several times to create suction.
For sinks, cover the overflow hole with a damp cloth to improve pressure and effectiveness.

4. Try Baking Soda and Vinegar

Pour half a cup of baking soda, then half a cup of vinegar down the drain. Let it fizz for about 15 minutes, then rinse with hot water.
This eco-friendly method helps dissolve small clogs without using harsh chemicals.

5. Use a Drain Snake or Wire Hanger

If the blockage persists, try a drain snake or straighten a wire coat hanger to reach deeper debris such as hair or soap scum.
Be gentle to avoid damaging the pipes.

6. Check the Outside Drain

If indoor methods don’t work, the issue may be in your outside drain.
Lift the round plastic drain plastic carefully usually found in your garden or driveway  using a flathead screwdriver or drain key.

Wear gloves and look for visible obstructions like leaves, mud, or grease buildup. Remove what you can safely reach.
If water is sitting high in the chamber, that means a major blockage it’s best to call a professional plumber.

7. When to Call the Professionals

If your drain remains blocked or keeps clogging again, there may be a serious issue such as:

• Collapsed or cracked pipes
• Tree root intrusion
• Heavy grease or scale buildup

At DM Emergency Plumbing, our trained engineers use professional drain jetting, and repair tools to clear any blockage safely and quickly.
We’re available 24/7 for both emergency and non-emergency plumbing and drain services across Northampton and nearby towns.

✅ Quick Prevention Tips

• Avoid pouring grease, fat, or oil down the sink.
• Dispose of wipes and sanitary products in the bin not the toilet.
• Clean plugholes regularly to prevent buildup.

🚨 Need Help Fast?

Don’t wait until your drain overflows  our team is on call day and night to help.

📞 Call DM Emergency Plumbing now 
🕒 Available 24/7 for Leaks, Blocked Drains, Burst Pipes, Boilers, and Heating Emergencies
📍 Serving Northampton and Surrounding Areas