## How to Snake an Apartment Kitchen Sink
If your kitchen sink is clogged, it can be a major inconvenience. Not only will it be difficult to wash dishes, but it can also lead to other problems, such as water damage. If you’re not sure how to snake a kitchen sink, don’t worry – it’s actually a fairly simple process. Here are the steps you need to follow:
### What You’ll Need
* A sink snake
* A bucket or bowl
* A pair of pliers (optional)
### Steps
1. **Remove the strainer.** The strainer is the metal grate that covers the drain. It’s usually held in place by a few screws. Remove the screws and lift the strainer out of the drain.
2. **Insert the snake into the drain.** The snake is a long, flexible cable with a hook on the end. Insert the hook into the drain and start feeding the snake down the pipe.
3. **Crank the snake.** As you feed the snake down the pipe, crank the handle to rotate the cable. This will help the snake to grip the clog and break it up.
4. **Pull the snake back out.** Once you feel the snake has reached the clog, start pulling it back out of the pipe. As you pull, continue to crank the handle to keep the snake rotating.
5. **Remove the clog.** Once the snake has pulled the clog out of the pipe, you can remove it from the hook. Be careful not to drop the clog back down the drain!
6. **Flush the drain.** Once the clog has been removed, flush the drain with hot water to clear away any remaining debris.
### Tips
* If the clog is particularly stubborn, you may need to use a pair of pliers to help pull it out.
* If you’re not able to remove the clog yourself, you may need to call a plumber.
* To prevent clogs in the future, be sure to dispose of food scraps and other debris in the trash can, not the sink.
### Troubleshooting
If you’re having trouble snaking your kitchen sink, here are a few troubleshooting tips:
* Make sure that the snake is long enough to reach the clog.
* If the snake is not rotating, check to make sure that the handle is properly attached.
* If the clog is particularly stubborn, you may need to use a chemical drain cleaner. However, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully, as drain cleaners can be corrosive.
## How to Prevent Clogs in Your Kitchen Sink
The best way to avoid clogs in your kitchen sink is to prevent them from happening in the first place. Here are a few tips:
* Dispose of food scraps and other debris in the trash can, not the sink.
* Avoid pouring grease or oil down the drain.
* Use a drain strainer to catch hair and other debris.
* Clean your drain regularly with a vinegar and baking soda solution.
By following these tips, you can help to keep your kitchen sink clog-free.