How do you clean the siphon of a sink?

A siphon , also known as a trap, is an important part of your sink. This pipe prevents unpleasant odors from your bathroom or kitchen drain from flowing back into the sink. Dirt, hair, grease, and soap residue can build up, clogging your trap. This can lead to slow drainage or, worse, a flood in your home! That's why it's essential to clean your trap regularly. Here's a step-by-step guide: from removing the trap to thoroughly cleaning it.

Function of a washbasin siphon

A sink trap is the curved pipe directly beneath your sink. It traps a small amount of water, creating a seal between the bathroom and the sewer. This water barrier not only blocks unpleasant odors but also prevents pests from entering your home from the drainage system. The system is actually quite simple, but that doesn't make it any less important! Without a clean trap, water drains less easily, making you more susceptible to blockages.

Why is it important to clean a siphon?

A clogged drain trap can really spoil your morning routine. When dirt, grease, hair, and soap scum build up, the drain becomes blocked, and mold and bacteria can quickly multiply. These create a musty smell in your bathroom or kitchen, and can even cause health problems if you don't clean the trap. You'll often notice slow drainage or even water droplets appearing under the sink . If you use your sink daily, it's best to clean the trap every few months. Do you see water draining slowly or smell unpleasant odors? Then it's high time to take action!

What do I need to clean a siphon?

Before you start this job you will need the following:

• Water pump pliers to loosen the siphon
• Bucket for collecting water and dirt
• All-purpose cleaner for thorough cleaning of the siphon
• Cleaning gloves to protect your hands
• Sponge for removing deposits and dirt in the siphon
• Good ventilation to ensure you are not exposed to chemical fumes for too long

With these tools, you're ready to thoroughly tackle the siphon and make everything fresh again!

Step-by-step plan for cleaning your siphon

Follow these steps to clean your siphon:

• Place a bucket under the siphon: This will prevent any released water from ending up on the floor.
• Loosen the siphon: Use the pipe wrench to carefully loosen the siphon. Always start with the top nuts and then the bottom nuts.
• Catch the water: The water from the siphon flows directly into the bucket. This water often contains a lot of dirt, so be prepared!
• Remove dirt and grime: Shake the siphon empty and use the sponge and all-purpose cleaner to thoroughly scrub away dirt and soap residue. Check carefully for any hair or other blocking residue.
• Rinse the siphon: Rinse the siphon thoroughly with hot water to clean everything and wash away any dirt.
• Replace the siphon: Put the siphon back in place and tighten the nuts firmly to prevent leakage.
• Test the drain: Run the tap for a moment and check that the water flows smoothly and that there are no leaks.

Tips to prevent siphon clogging

A clean trap ensures a trouble-free drain, but prevention is always better than cure. Regularly use a drain cleaner to remove dirt and grease. You can also clean the trap every few weeks to flush away any emerging dirt. These simple tips will help you keep your trap clean and minimize the risk of clogging. This will make the cleaning process less intensive and keep your bathroom fresh.