To plunge a double kitchen sink, seal the drain on the side you are not plunging, add a few inches of water to the clogged side, and use a cup plunger with firm, steady strokes. Without sealing the second drain, the pressure escapes through it and the plunger will not work.
Why the Second Drain Matters
Both sides of a double sink connect to the same drain below. When you push down on one side, air and water try to escape through the easiest path, which is the other drain. Blocking it sends the force toward the clog instead.
Steps to Follow
- Turn off the garbage disposal and dishwasher
- Put a stopper in the second drain, or have someone hold a wet rag firmly over it
- Fill the clogged side with a few inches of warm water
- Place a cup plunger over the drain and press to seal
- Plunge up and down 10 to 15 times, then lift and check
If the sink has a dishwasher connection, the hose can also let pressure escape. Some people clamp the hose gently, but it is easier to just keep the second drain sealed well.
What Not to Do
Do not use a toilet plunger in the kitchen sink, for hygiene reasons. Avoid plunging after pouring chemical drain cleaner, since it can splash. Do not keep running the disposal if water is standing in the sink.
When Plunging Does Not Work
If the water will not drain after a few rounds, the clog may be past the trap, deeper in the line inside the wall. Grease buildup is common in kitchen drains and often needs more than a plunger. If the dishwasher also backs up into the sink, that is another sign the blockage is further down.
For a clog that will not budge, clearing the kitchen line with the right tools can restore drainage. If the sink clogs often, you can ask a plumber why it keeps happening by calling (833) 603-1840.