Repeat clogs are one of the most common plumbing issues in any home, and they’re rarely random. If your kitchen sink clogged again, it’s a sign that something deeper is going on inside your drain system.
Grease, food particles, and poor water flow all contribute to buildup that doesn’t go away with a quick fix. Store-bought cleaners and plungers may offer short-term relief, but they often miss the real problem. To keep your sink draining the way it should, it’s important to understand what’s causing the clog and how to prevent it from coming back.
Common Causes of Kitchen Sink Clogs
1. Grease and Cooking Oils
The number one issue we find in clogged kitchen drains is grease. It might go down the drain as a liquid, but once it cools in your pipes, it sticks to the walls and traps other debris. Over time, this buildup becomes thick and sticky—and hard to remove without professional equipment.
2. Food Particles and Rotting Waste
Even with a garbage disposal, not all food should be washed down the sink. Rotting food builds up inside the pipe and creates a terrible smell. The more food particles stuck in the drain, the more likely it is that your kitchen sink gets clogged again.
Some of the worst offenders we’ve pulled out of drains include:
- Potato peels
- Celery
- Banana peels
- Stringy vegetables
- Meat scraps
3. Eggshells and Heavy Waste
Eggshells might seem harmless at the disposal, but once they pass through, they often settle in horizontal drains—especially those that run through the basement ceiling or floor. They don’t break down easily and can form clogs over time.
4. Children’s Surprises
We’ve seen gum, small toys, and even coins tossed into kitchen disposals by curious kids. These items don’t break down and can easily block the pipe beyond the disposal unit.
Is Your Kitchen Faucet Making the Problem Worse?
Many homeowners overlook the importance of water flow. If your kitchen faucet has weak pressure, it might not send enough water down the drain to wash away food, grease, and soap. Over time, low water flow leads to buildup.
We often find that a slow-draining sink isn’t just about what went down—it’s also about what didn’t. Without enough water flushing through the pipes, residue clings and thickens.
How to Prevent a Kitchen Sink Clog
If your kitchen sink is clogged again, take a look at what’s going down the drain and how it’s being flushed. Here’s what we recommend to our customers:
1. Watch What You Put Down the Drain
Avoid disposing of these items in the kitchen sink:
- Grease or oils
- Eggshells
- Stringy vegetables (like celery or banana peels)
- Meat scraps and fatty leftovers
- Coffee grounds
- Pasta and rice (they swell with water)
2. Run Plenty of Water
Always run lots of water when using your disposal. This helps move particles through the system rather than letting them sit in the pipe.
3. Keep Your Disposal Clear
Use your garbage disposal wisely. Lightly rinse plates before putting them in the dishwasher, but don’t treat your disposal like a trash can.
4. Check Your Water Flow
If your faucet isn’t producing strong flow, we may need to inspect both the faucet and the drain. Poor water pressure makes it easier for gunk to stick.
What to Do If the Clog Keeps Coming Back
If your kitchen sink keeps getting clogged again, it may be time for a professional cleaning. Clogs in horizontal drain lines—especially those that run through basements—can be tough to reach with store-bought solutions. We use professional-grade equipment to clear out stubborn buildup and restore proper flow.
And if your faucet isn’t helping, we’ll check for clogs in the aerator or valve that may be restricting your water pressure. A full inspection allows us to address both the symptoms and the source of the clog.
In Summary
If your kitchen sink clogged again, chances are it’s not just a one-time mistake. Grease, food scraps, low water flow, and improper use of your disposal can all contribute to clogs that come back again and again. At Dick Ray, we don’t just clear the blockage—we help you stop it from coming back. Whether your issue is grease buildup, stuck food particles, or poor water flow, we’ve got the tools and know-how to fix it right.
If your kitchen sink clogged again and you’re ready for a long-term fix, contact us today.
