Hair and soap buildup
Bathroom drains often collect debris around the stopper or strainer.
Plumbing troubleshooting
Clogged Drain? Safe First Steps for Sinks and Showers
A slow drain often starts with hair, soap, or food debris near the opening. Start with simple mechanical cleaning rather than mixing chemical cleaners.
Common causes
Food or grease
Kitchen drains can narrow as grease and food scraps accumulate.
Deeper line blockage
If more than one fixture backs up, the blockage may be farther down the drain line.
Safe checks you can make
- Remove and clean the visible stopper or strainer.
- Try a plunger suited to the fixture, using a tight seal.
- Avoid mixing drain chemicals or plunging a drain that contains chemicals.
When to call a professional
Call a plumber if multiple drains back up, water returns after clearing, or sewage is present.
Explore other plumbing problems
This guide is general information, not a diagnosis. If water is near electricity, avoid the area and get immediate professional help.