How to fix an overflowing drain in my kitchen quickly?

 
Inspect the Drain Area
 

Residents and business owners in St. Louis and Nashville often find these steps practical for routine drain maintenance.

• Begin by examining the sink to see if any food scraps, grease, or foreign objects are visible at the surface.
• Remove the sink strainer or cover if possible to check for accumulated debris in shallow parts of the drain.
• Ensure that no visible blockages exist at the immediate opening before proceeding to further steps.

 
Clear Surface Debris Manually
 

• Put on a pair of rubber gloves and remove any large deposits of grease or food particles manually.
• Dispose of the debris in a trash bin instead of flushing them down the drain to prevent further clogging.
• Use a paper towel or a small tool (like a bent wire hanger with a hook) to pull out any obvious obstructions near the drain entrance.

 
Plunge the Drain
 

• Fill the sink partially with hot water to cover the base of the plunger.
• Place a cup plunger directly over the drain ensuring a tight seal.
• Perform a series of vigorous up-and-down plunges, creating suction that forces the blockage to dislodge.
• Check if the water recedes properly after a few plunging cycles.

 
Use a Drain Snake or Auger
 

• If plunging does not clear the blockage, insert a drain snake into the drain opening.
• Slowly feed the snake into the pipe while twisting its handle to break through or snag the clog.
• Once you feel resistance, work it around gently to loosen and pull out the blockage.
• After extracting the debris, run hot water to flush it through the drain.

 
Clean the P-Trap
 

• Place a bucket under the P-trap (the curved pipe beneath the sink) to catch water and debris.
• Loosen the slip nuts on both ends of the trap and remove it carefully.
• Clear out any accumulated sediment, hair, or grease inside the trap.
• Rinse with hot water and reattach the trap securely, ensuring proper alignment to avoid leaks.

 
Flush the Drain with Hot Water and Cleaning Agents
 

• Boil a kettle of water and pour it slowly down the drain to help dissolve any lingering grease.
• If needed, mix a solution of baking soda and vinegar, pour it into the drain, and cover with a plug to let it work for 15-20 minutes.
• Follow with another round of hot water flushing to clear loosened debris.

 
Safety and Final Checks
 

• Wear protective gloves and eyewear when handling boiling water, chemicals, or when working under the sink.
• Avoid mixing harsh chemicals as they can create harmful fumes or damage your pipes.
• Run water for several minutes after each procedure to ensure that the drain flows freely and that no trickling blockages remain.
• If the clog persists despite your efforts, consider seeking professional plumbing assistance to prevent further damage.