## How to Unclog a Kitchen Sink Faucet
A clogged kitchen sink faucet can be a major inconvenience, especially when you’re trying to wash dishes or prepare food. Fortunately, most kitchen sink faucet clogs can be easily cleared with a few simple steps.
### Tools and Materials You’ll Need
* Pliers
* Adjustable wrench
* Screwdriver
* White vinegar
* Baking soda
* Rag
### Step-by-Step Instructions
#### 1. Turn off the water supply
The first step is to turn off the water supply to the faucet. This will prevent water from leaking while you’re working on the clog. To turn off the water supply, locate the shut-off valves under the sink. The valves are usually located on the hot and cold water lines. Turn the valves clockwise to shut off the water.
#### 2. Remove the aerator
The aerator is the small, mesh screen that screws onto the end of the faucet. It helps to aerate the water, which makes it feel smoother and reduces splashing. Over time, the aerator can become clogged with minerals and debris. To remove the aerator, use a pair of pliers to unscrew it from the faucet.
#### 3. Clean the aerator
Once you’ve removed the aerator, clean it with a soft brush or a toothbrush. You can also soak the aerator in white vinegar for 30 minutes to dissolve any mineral buildup.
#### 4. Check for debris in the faucet
Once you’ve cleaned the aerator, check for any debris in the faucet itself. You can use a small flashlight to look down the faucet. If you see any debris, use a pair of pliers or tweezers to remove it.
#### 5. Flush the faucet
Once you’ve removed any debris, flush the faucet with hot water to clear out any remaining clogs. Turn on the water supply and let the water run for a few minutes.
#### 6. If the clog persists, try using baking soda and vinegar
If the clog persists, you can try using baking soda and vinegar to dissolve it. Pour 1/2 cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by 1/2 cup of white vinegar. Let the mixture sit for 30 minutes, then flush the drain with hot water.
#### 7. Call a plumber if the clog is severe
If you’ve tried all of the above steps and the clog still persists, you may need to call a plumber. A plumber can use specialized tools to clear the clog and prevent it from recurring.
### Tips for Preventing Clogs
* Avoid pouring grease or oil down the drain.
* Use a drain strainer to catch food scraps and other debris.
* Clean the aerator regularly to prevent mineral buildup.
* Flush the faucet with hot water every few weeks to keep the drain clear.
### Additional Tips
* If you have a double sink, try clogging one side of the sink to create a suction that will help to unclog the other side.
* You can also use a plunger to try to clear the clog. Place the plunger over the drain and push and pull vigorously.
* If you have a garbage disposal, make sure that it is turned off before you try to unclog the faucet. Running the garbage disposal while the faucet is clogged can damage the disposal.