Pour Boiling Water Down the Drain

Boil a full kettle of water and pour it directly into the drain in two or three stages, pausing a few seconds between each pour. This is the simplest first step for a slow-draining sink.

Why It Works

Boiling water melts and loosens grease buildup that has solidified inside the drainpipe. It also helps dislodge soft food debris clinging to pipe walls. Most effective on grease-based clogs that have not fully hardened.

Tips

• Do not use on PVC pipes if you are unsure of your pipe material; boiling water can soften PVC joints over time. Safe for metal pipes.
• Repeat two or three times if drainage improves but remains slow
• Works best as a first attempt before escalating to other methods
• Add a squirt of dish soap before the boiling water to help emulsify grease