How to Clean Sink Overflow Drain?

Written By Adam Paul - Waterproofing Expert

Sink overflowing is draining out excess water through the sink overflow hole. When the overflow drain is clogged by dirt and debris water will flow over the sink basin. In order to prevent this severe problem you should clean the sink overflow hole properly by following 4 methods.

1. Clean Sink Overflow Drain Using Zip Tie
2. Clean Sink Overflow Drain Using a Rubber Hose
3. Clean Sink Overflow Drain Using a Liquid Cleaner
4. Clean Sink Overflow Drain Using a Brush

The sink overflow drain can be blocked due to a clogged drain, higher water flow, blocking vent pipe, faulty sink components, and incorrect drain installation. prolonged sink overflowing caused 3 major problems such as mold and mildew growth in the sink overflow drain, spreading unpleasant odor, and wall dampness near the bathroom sink.

You can stop the sink from overflowing by regulating the faucet handle to control the water flow, limiting the water flow from the main source, unclogging the sink drains, and checking the sink stopper properly.

How to Clean the Sink Overflow Drain?

You can clean the sink overflow hole using the below 4 ways such as using a Zip tie, a rubber drain, a liquid cleaner, and a sink cleaner brush. You should follow the below 4 methods when you clean the sink overflow.

1. Clean Sink Overflow Drain Using Zip Tie
2. Clean Sink Overflow Drain Using a Rubber Hose
3. Clean Sink Overflow Drain Using a Liquid Cleaner
4. Clean Sink Overflow Drain Using a Brush

1. Clean Sink Overflow Drain Using Zip Tie

7 Steps to clean sink overflow drain using a zip tie.

1. Keep the sink in dry condition
2. Take a long zip tie and cut several notches on one end.
3. These notches will act like teeth, helping to remove any build-up or debris in the sink overflow hole.
4. Carefully insert the notched end of the zip tie into the sink overflow hole. Make sure not to push any debris further into the sink overflow hole.
5. Gently move the zip tie up and down. This will loosen any gunk or build-up in the hole.
6. Pull the zip tie out of the hole. You should see some debris coming out with it.
7. Repeat this process until no more debris is coming out with the zip tie.
8. If you notice any unpleasant smell, pour a small amount of vinegar down the hole. This will help to neutralize the odor.

Read more: How to Unclog a Bathroom Sink: 7 DIY Methods

2. Clean Sink Overflow Drain Using a Rubber Hose

6 Steps to clean sink overflow drain using a rubber hose.

1. Take a hose that is smaller than the sink overflow hole diameter
2. Insert the hose into the overflow hole. Make sure it’s a snug fit to ensure effective cleaning.
3. Turn on the water, allowing it to flow through the hose. The water pressure will help remove any blockages in the sink overflow drain.
4. Let the water run for a few minutes to thoroughly clean out the hole.
5. After you’ve let the water run, remove the hose and check the overflow. If water drains smoothly, you’ve successfully cleaned it.
6. If the water still isn’t draining properly, repeat the process. Stubborn blockages might require a few attempts.

3. Clean Sink Overflow Drain Using a Liquid Cleaner

4 Steps to clean sink overflow drain using a rubber hose

1. Start by pouring a small amount of liquid cleaner into the sink overflow hole. Be sure to use a cleaner specifically designed for sinks to avoid causing any damage.
2. Let it sit for a few minutes. This will give it time to break down any build-up of dirt or grime inside the overflow hole.
3. Take a small cleaning brush or old toothbrush and gently scrub inside the overflow hole. This will help to dislodge any stubborn debris.
4. Once you’ve scrubbed the sink overflow hole, rinse it thoroughly with warm water. This will help to flush out any remaining cleaner and dislodged debris.

4. Clean Sink Overflow Drain Using a Brush

1. Wet your cleaning brush with warm water and add a bit of mild detergent.
2. Insert the brush into the overflow hole and scrub gently but firmly. The bristles of the brush should dislodge any build-up within the overflow passage.
3. After scrubbing, rinse the brush and repeat the process until the overflow hole is clear. It’s crucial to rinse the brush between each scrub to avoid re-depositing the dirt you’ve just removed.
4. Rinse the sink overflow hole with warm water to wash away any remaining debris. You can do this by pouring water into the hole or using a small handheld shower.

What are the Reasons for Sink Overflowing?

Sink overflowing can happen due to two main reasons such as environmental effects and human faults

1. Clogged sink drain due to hair, beard, food particles, and soap scum.
2. Higher faucet water flow in the water line
3. Blocking vent pipe prevents the air from being regulated in the plumbing system.
4. Faulty sink components can lead to an overflow in the sink.
5. Incorrect drain installation of the sink or drain can cause water to pool and overflow.

What are the Water Damages Due to Sink Overflow Drains?

The sink overflow drain causes many water problems in the bathroom. Prolonged sink overflowing caused to mold and mildew growth in the sink overflow drain, spreading unpleasant odors from the sink drain, and damping and seeping the walls near the bathroom. More than that we can see paint peeling and stain marks near walls and ceiling. 

In order to prevent these problems you should waterproof the bathroom properly.

Read more: What to Know About Bathroom Waterproofing?

How to Stop the Sink Overflowing?

You can stop the water from overflowing from the sink by following the below 5 steps. 

1. Regulate the faucet handle to flow enough water
2. Limit the water flow from the main source
3. Unclog the drain
4. Check the sink stopper regularly
5. Keep clear the vent pipe

What are Sink Overflow Hole, Sink Overflow Ring, Sink Overflow Cover and Their Purpose? 

Sink overflow hole consists of ring and a cover. These parts are designed for specific purposes.

1. Sink Overflow Hole: Sink overflow hole has a diameter of 1 ¼, or 1 ¾”. It prevents the sink from overflowing if the faucet is left on or if the drain is blocked. 
2. Sink Overflow Ring: Sink overflow ring is a plastic or chrome ring in the overflow hole. The main purpose of the sink trom ring is to provide excess space while cleaning the sink overflow drain. 
3. Sink Overflow Cover: Sink overflow cover acts as a protective cover that is placed over the overflow hole. It prevents entering large objects into the sink overflow drain that cause an overflow.