Why Is My Drain Slow? 5 Causes and How to Fix Each One

A slow-draining sink or shower is almost always one of five things. Here's how to tell which one you have and fix it.

It's probably hair, soap scum, or grease

Bathroom drains slow down from hair and soap scum caught in the trap; kitchen drains slow from grease and food particles that harden inside the pipe over time.

Try a drain snake before anything chemical

A cheap drain snake or auger physically pulls out the clog. Chemical drain cleaners can work but are harsh on older pipes and don't fix root blockages.

Check the P-trap

The curved pipe under the sink is easy to access and often holds the clog. Place a bucket underneath, unscrew the trap, and clear it out.

When it's more than one fixture

If multiple drains are slow at once, the problem is likely further down the main line — roots, buildup, or a partial break — and needs a licensed plumber with a camera inspection.

Prevent it going forward

A simple hair catcher and running hot water after grease-heavy cooking go a long way toward preventing the next clog.