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How to Clean Grease Out of Sink Drains
How to Clean Grease Out of Sink Drains
4.8 RATING

How to Clean Grease Out of Sink Drains

A clogged kitchen sink is easily among the top five most common plumbing issues, and grease is a usual suspect.

September 16, 2026
How to Clean Grease Out of Sink Drains

A clogged kitchen sink is easily among the top five most common plumbing issues, and grease is a usual suspect. Fortunately, there is a lot you can do to reduce the risk of this major inconvenience. In this article, we will go over some preventative measures as well as some ways you can clean grease out of sink drains. For a long-term solution, consider scheduling a clogged drain cleaning appointment. Mr. Rooter Plumbing of New Jersey employ hydro-jetting technology to safely and thoroughly clear drains. Call us today to speak with a live representative and request a nearby plumber dispatch. We are proud to offer emergency drain cleaning services.

How to Tell If Grease Is the Culprit

Think about your cooking and dish cleaning habits. Is your household a fan of hearty meals? Do you often pour used fats, oils, or greases down the kitchen sink? If your dishes include dairy and meat products, you must be careful with how you dispose of leftovers and remnants. Even rinsing the pans and dishes will lead to fats and greases getting washed down the drains. Over time, these little bits will accumulate and can clog the drain.

Signs of A Blockage

Is your kitchen sink draining too slowly? Does the sink make gurgling sounds as water runs down the drains? These are just some signs of a clogged drain. Other signs include:

  • Foul odors rising from drains
  • Wastewater backups
  • Leaking drains

Our Customers Reviews

Chahib Chakrome

Summit, NJ

The service provided was great, nothing to say about the work of the plumber. 5 stars to him. But the company charges felt way too much for the work. We would have liked to have the same plumber take care of other things in the house, but every time he check how much extra the company will charge for the job, the price just got too much. The plumber did an amazing job he selected a beautiful faucet to replace our old one. He did his best. But the company prices have no room for negotiation.

Tiffany DeSande

Plainfield, NJ

A million stars!!!! Steve and Lucas were absolutely amazing. My parents pipes burst and within 4 hours of calling they came and fixed everything!!! Very nice guys and dealt with my panicking. I will always use them if needed in the future and you all should too!!! Thank god for people like this!!! Thank you so much guys!!!

Naomi Langer-Seltzer

New Brunswick, NJ

We got very quick service, I think the plumber actually arrived in less than an hour! After reviewing what was happening, he gave us our options and performed the option we selected. This happened in the late afternoon or early evening. It was already dark and there was a lot of snow on the ground.

Steve Smith

Mountainside, NJ

I needed immediate, same day service in the early evening at my home. I went to the internet and looked up plumbing services that offered "24-hour, 7-day a week" availability. The first 3 places I called said that they could not get to me until the following day. Then I called Mr. Rooter. They were courteous and promptly got a technician to my house within an hour and a half. The technician, Lucas Kaufmann, was exceptional. The job was not easy, but he figured the problem out and got me all fixed up within an hour's time. Moving forward, I…

Stephanie Brown

Cranford, NJ

Despite what was quite obviously a busy day (day after Thanksgiving at 10pm) TJ came out and did not leave until the job was done! There were several setbacks, which at the late hour might have prompted him to leave- but he chose to stay and continue until the job was complete! I only have one bathroom so I was really hoping he could make it work, and he really did a wonderful job! So thankful for all of his help! I highly recommend TJ!

Shaheen Dhanani

Union, NJ

This is my second time using Mr. Rooter and I have to say they are an excellent company of experienced professionals! The service techs were courteous, experienced and actually spent time trying to figure out the issue before proposing the solution. They were also patient and answered all my questions without rushing the work. I will be using them again.

Christie Murphy

Montgomery, NJ

TJ was amazing! 10/10 recommend this company. We were in an emergency state of panic with a burst pipe in the middle of a bad snowstorm. TJ came with knowledge, professionalism, kindness, and found the root of the problem within five minutes of being here. We will be using him again in the spring to fix an outdoor issue he found!

Alan Abraham

Clark, NJ

The technicians were friendly, professional and knowledgeable. The price was too high I believe, but the technicians had no control over that. The technicians took their time and did a great job. I would use them again and also recommend them.

Amy Swart

Berkeley Heights, NJ

Excellent service! Charles and Nicholas of Mr. Rooter arrived to my scheduled service a few minutes early, wore sanitary shoe coverings, and were extremely professional. They found the source of my leak quickly and fixed the issue. While they here, I requested an additional hydraulic heating inspection which they accommodated. They were very knowledgeable and provided helpful tips. I highly recommend this team and I will definitely call them for all future plumbing needs!!

JACKY Coppola

Wall Township, NJ

TJ came to my aid as the water pipe froze in my house. Although nothing could be done he gave me hints of what could be done my me which was very helpful. I found TJ very professional and caring about my situation. The best part of the very long night was the dogs adored him one wanted to accompany him to his next job. Thank you for employing such an amazing man. Plus today there is water running in the house. Thank you TJ and thank you Mr. Rooney plumbing for employing a man with helpful hints!!!!!

Preventative Measures to Take

An ounce of prevention is worth more than a pound of cure. Consider some of these preventative measures:

  • If you run a business or cook hearty meals often, then installing a grease trap can do wonders.
  • Don’t pour used fats, oils, and greases down the drains. Keep them in a separate container to throw out later.
  • Reduce your fat and grease intake. This solution can prevent clogged drains as well as clogged arteries!

Cleaning Grease Out of Drains

We do not recommend using harsh chemical cleaners, especially if you have a septic system installation. These chemicals can end up doing more harm than good by damaging the drains. For minor blockages, try these solutions:

  • Flush drains with hot water once a week and especially after you wash dishes contaminated with heavy grease and fats. Do not use boiling water as this can damage some drain materials.
  • For more stubbo blockages, try a mixture of hot water and vinegar. Sprinkle a few tablespoons of baking down the drain first for an added punch.
  • Pull out the plunger or drain snake and put the elbow grease to work.

What About Severe Blockages?

If you are experiencing water backups in the kitchen sink, then the blockage is likely severe, and the aforementioned solutions may be insufficient. For severe blockages, call Mr. Rooter Plumbing to schedule a professional drain cleaning in Ocean Township. We use hydro jetting technology for safe and thorough results. Our plumbers employ video technology to inspect the drains for damages so you can rest assured knowing your drains will be in good shape.

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