How to Clean a P‐Trap or U‐Bend

Co-authored by David Balkan

Last Updated: June 30, 2024

Is your bathroom sink blocked, clogged, or not draining properly? The usual case is a blocked U-shaped pipe, commonly known as a P-trap. Clearing one of these plumbing fixtures is easy, and you do not have to be an experienced plumber to fix this issue.

Part 1

Part 1 of 3:

Removing the Pipe

Download Article

1
Get a bucket. You will need a bucket because U-shaped pipes usually retain a small amount of water, and need to be emptied.
- Place the bucket under the U pipe.
2
Start by unfastening. Unfasten the holders holding the U pipe.
- Usually you can twist it by hand. If it is shaped of a bolt, you may need a wrench. If it is too difficult to open by hand, use a plumbing wrench to help you.
- There are usually 2 or 3 fasteners.
Advertisement
3
Remove the pipe. Water may drip out of the pipe.
- Do not forget there is water retained inside the pipe. Tip it to empty it

Part 2

Part 2 of 3:

Cleaning the Pipe

Download Article

Remove hair if there is any.
Usually some remnants from waste water is left. This can include calcium, mold, or scum. Use a flex brush to remove gunky waste.
3
Snake the hairball. Using a plumbing snake, insert the snake into the drain hole in the sink. Pull out obstructions.
- It may take a couple of attempts to snake a hairball out.

Part 3

Part 3 of 3:

Re-assembling the Pipe

Download Article

1
Attach the pipe. Place the pipe back in place.
- Remember that the long side faces the sink drain.
Make sure to fasten tight.
3
Check for leaks. Do this by turning on the sink to check if drainage is okay.
- Keep the sink on for 15 seconds.
- If it leaks, make sure it is fastened right. Is the fastener loose? If that is not the case, you may need plumbing tape. You can purchase plumbing tape at a local hardware store. Use the tape as a gasket.
Empty the bucket out in a drain. Put back the tools.