Quick Answer:
If a sink is sluggish after a long vacation, start with simple checks: remove debris from the stopper, run water to wash out settled residue, and try a plunger or hand snake if needed. Dried soap, mineral deposits, or small bits of debris that settled during inactivity are common causes. If basic steps don’t restore normal flow, call a plumber.
Why This Happens
When a drain sits unused for days or weeks, water evaporates and leaves behind soap scum, grease, mineral deposits, and small solids. These residues can shrink and harden, narrowing the pipe opening and slowing flow. Low flow can also come from an airlock or a partially filled trap. Homes that were winterized or had very soft or hard water may show different residue patterns — compare with Slow drain after winterization if that applies. If you don’t see a visible clog but the sink is slow, consider the guidance in Slow drain with no visible clog.
Step-by-Step What to Do
1. Clear the visible parts
- Remove and clean the sink stopper or strainer. Hair and gunk often collect here and are an easy fix.
- Wipe away any residue you can reach from the drain opening.
2. Flush the drain — Flush drain after long inactivity.
- Run the hottest tap water you can safely use for 3–5 minutes. This helps soften and wash away soap and grease that settled while the drain was unused.
- If you have a detachable shower head or hose, use a steady flow aimed down the drain to help dislodge buildup.
3. Use a plunger
- Block overflow openings if present. Use a cup plunger and several firm plunges to shift trapped air or loosen material.
- Test the drain after plunging by running water again.
4. Check and clean the P-trap
- Place a bucket under the trap, loosen the slip nuts, and remove the trap to clear trapped debris or dried residue. Reassemble carefully and test for leaks.
5. Try a hand auger (snake) if needed
- Use a small drain snake designed for sinks to reach clogs beyond the trap. Rotate and pull gently to avoid damaging pipes or finishes.
6. When simple fixes don’t work
- If water still drains slowly after these steps, stop and consider calling a professional. Persistent slow drains can indicate deeper pipe buildup or venting issues.
What Not to Do
- Do not leave stagnant water sitting. Standing water increases odor, breeds bacteria, and can worsen residue build-up.
- Avoid pouring large amounts of harsh chemical drain cleaners down the sink. They can damage pipes and are dangerous to handle, especially if mixed accidentally with other chemicals.
- Don’t force metal tools or twisty wire into plastic fittings where they can crack or puncture pipes.
When to Call a Professional
- Call a plumber if the drain remains slow after cleaning the stopper, flushing with hot water, plunging, and clearing the P-trap.
- Also call if you notice multiple fixtures slow at once, persistent bad odors, gurgling sounds, or if you find leaks when you open the trap.
- Ask a pro about pipe cleaning options if mineral scale or grease buildup is suspected deep in the line.
Safety Notes
- Wear gloves and eye protection when removing debris or working under the sink.
- Do not mix chemical cleaners and always follow product instructions if you choose to use them. Consider avoiding chemicals altogether if you have PVC or older metal pipes.
- Shut off water to the fixture if you need to disassemble plumbing, and keep a bucket handy to catch water from the trap.
Common Homeowner Questions
- Could dried residue be the only cause? Yes. Dried soap, grease, and minerals often narrow the opening enough to slow a drain after long inactivity.
- How long should I run water to flush the drain? Run the hottest safe tap water for 3–5 minutes to soften and rinse away settled material.
- Are chemical drain cleaners OK for this? They’re risky: they can harm pipes and are hazardous to handle. Try mechanical cleaning first and call a plumber if that fails.