Slow draining sink or shower? Here’s what it means and how to fix it
A slow draining sink or shower is often one of the first signs that something isn’t quite right with your drainage system. While it might seem like a minor inconvenience, it can be an early warning of a developing blockage. Acting quickly can help prevent more serious problems such as complete drain failure, unpleasant smells or even water damage.
At Drain Wizard, we help homeowners across the region tackle slow drains before they become emergencies. Here’s what you need to know.
Common causes of slow drainage
There are several reasons why your sink or shower might be draining slowly. Some are easy to fix, while others may require professional attention:
- Hair and soap scum build-up
In bathrooms, hair and soap residue often combine to form sticky clumps that cling to the inside of pipes, restricting water flow. - Food debris in kitchen sinks
Bits of food, coffee grounds and other waste can get trapped in the U-bend or further down the pipe, especially if you don’t have a waste catcher. - Grease or fat in pipes
Pouring cooking oil or grease down the sink may seem harmless, but it solidifies as it cools, creating stubborn blockages. - Partial collapses in the drainage system
In older properties, pipework may be cracked or misaligned, causing water to drain slowly even if there’s no visible blockage.
Quick fixes to try at home
Before calling a drainage engineer, there are a few simple steps you can take to try and clear the issue:
- Use a plunger
A standard household plunger can be effective for sinks, showers and even toilets. Make sure there’s a good seal and use firm, rhythmic plunges. - Try a safe drain cleaning solution
Use an enzyme-based or eco-friendly drain cleaner to break down organic matter. Avoid harsh chemicals, which can damage your pipes over time. - Flush with boiling water
Pouring boiling water down the drain can help melt grease and dislodge minor blockages. For best results, do this slowly and repeat if needed. - Check external drain
If you notice standing water near outdoor gullies or downpipes, it could indicate a blockage in the main system.
When to call a professional
If your DIY efforts don’t solve the slow-draining sink or shower problem – or if the issue keeps coming back – it’s time to call in the experts. Persistent slow drainage can be a sign of:
- A deeper blockage in the system
- Structural damage to the pipes
- Tree root ingress or collapsed sections
- Build-up that requires high-pressure jetting or CCTV inspection
At Drain Wizard, we offer fast, reliable service for fixing slow draining sinks or showers with no call-out charges and 24/7 availability. Our engineers use advanced tools to diagnose and resolve drainage issues quickly and cleanly, restoring your system to full flow.
Contact Drain Wizard for expert help
Don’t let a slow-draining sink or shower disrupt your day. Call Drain Wizard now on 01392 461670 for expert help clearing slow drains. We’ll restore your system quickly, safely and affordably.