My bathroom sink has been draining slower by the day, and plumbers are fully booked until after holidays. What can I try first?.

If buildup persists, shift to methods that break down residue inside the pipes. Carefully flushing the drain with hot water can help dissolve soap film, while a baking soda and vinegar mixture offers a gentle, pipe-safe way to loosen clogs without relying on corrosive chemicals. For tougher obstructions, a wet/dry vacuum or a properly used plunger can create enough pressure to dislodge trapped material. Each method builds on the last, allowing you to escalate only if needed.
When surface solutions fail, cleaning the P-trap under the sink is often the most effective DIY fix. Though slightly messy, it directly removes collected debris and restores flow. Once the sink drains properly again, prevention becomes essential: use a drain strainer, rinse weekly with warm water, and avoid sending hair or heavy residue down the drain. And if the problem continues despite these efforts, that’s the signal to pause and wait for a professional—knowing when to stop is just as important as knowing how to start.