Unblock a drain
Save £60–120 in 20 mins — no plumber needed
Most people call a plumber for this. You probably don't need to.
Last updated: February 2025
Only basic tools needed — most homes already have them.
Before you start
This works for slow or fully blocked sink, bath, and shower drains.
Legal to DIY. No special skills needed.
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Tools & materials
- ✓Rubber gloves— standard household item
- ✓Kettle— for boiling water flush
- ✓Bicarbonate of soda and white vinegar— most homes have these
- !Cup plunger— buy — 8, worth having in every home
- !Drain snake— buy — 10 if the plunger doesn't work (or use a bent wire coat hanger)
Want everything in one go?
Prices shown on retailer sites. Always check current pricing before purchasing.
Remove the drain cover
Unscrew or lift off the drain cover. Remove any visible hair or debris by hand — wear rubber gloves.
Most people get this done in under 5 minutes.
Where beginners go wrong
Using chemical drain cleaner at the same time as a plunger — the chemicals can splash back dangerously.
Not wearing gloves when handling drain debris.
Pouring boiling water into plastic pipes — use very hot but not boiling water for plastic.
Stop and call a plumber if...
Multiple drains in your home are blocked at the same time
You can smell sewage coming up through the drain
Water is gurgling in other drains when you flush
Cost breakdown
Recommended starter kit
Five tools that cover most home repairs.
- →Adjustable spannerAmazon·Screwfix
- →Screwdriver setAmazon·Screwfix
- →PTFE tapeAmazon·Screwfix
- →Spirit levelAmazon·Screwfix
- →Tape measureAmazon·Screwfix
Want everything in one go? Get it on Amazon
What you just learned
You now understand how drain blockages form and how to clear them using multiple techniques. These skills apply to any blocked sink, bath, or shower in your home.
Most people would pay a tradesperson for this.
How long will this actually take me?
First time
20–30 mins
With experience
10 mins
If the blockage doesn't shift with a plunger in 5 minutes, move to the drain snake — don't keep plunging.