The basin originated in Ancient Roman bathhouses. Warm, still water in bowls were placed around bathhouses for users to wash their faces and hands. These were made of lead for standard, every day people, larger more elaborate pieces of stone were made for the well-off. As personal hygiene became more important, so did washstands. These grew in size and possessed more accommodating basins and space for soap, water bottles and hair brushes.
However, once bathrooms started to be seen as a necessity, rather than something purely the rich could afford, more manufacturers began popping up and presenting options for all households. Soon the idea of washing your face, bathing and using the lavatory in the same room was brought to life.
70% of people in the UK have this unbelievably unhygienic habit. Studies have shown that 70% of people in the UK don’t wash their hands properly when using the bathroom.
There is a gender gap when it comes to hygiene. Studies have shown that women wash their hands significantly more often, use soap more often, and wash their hand somewhat longer than men.
Dealing with a blockage A blockage can be caused by such things as hair, soap, toothpaste or general grime and dirt. There are a couple of ways to sort out a blockage.
To remove a blockage using a plunger:
- Remove the plug / drain stopper and block the overflow with a small towel (a tea towel is ideal). Make sure there is enough water in the basin to cover at least half of the plunger head.
- Place the plunger suction cup over the plughole making sure you completely cover it entirely. Push down gently to create a seal and pump repeatedly in a vertical motion at a steady pace for a few minutes. Then release the plunger to let the air out and repeat this until the water drains.
To remove a blockage removing the u-bend:
- If this doesn’t work, you may need to get underneath the sink and remove the U-bend (waste trap). In order to do this you need to make sure the water is turned off.
- Place a towel and bucket under the basin to catch any water that may come out once the U-bend is taken off.
- Loosen the fittings that connect the U-bend to the basin with a screwdriver. There may be a small amount of water that comes out so keep the bucket and towel in place.
- The blockage can be removed either by your fingers (preferably wearing rubber gloves) or with long flexible piece of wire.
- Once the blockage is cleared, reassemble the U-bend in the same way it was taken apart making sure it’s completely sealed at both ends.
- Once you are happy it has been securely sealed, you can turn the water back on.
If the sink is constantly blocked, poorly installed plumbing and piping may be the cause. Pipes fitted with wrong falls or angles can easily lead to a build-up of material that can cause a blockage. If this is the case and you notice gurgling sounds, bad smells or water constantly draining slowly its worth calling a plumber to investigate the issue. We work in and around the West London area, give us a call on 01895 540800 or Contact – williams plumbing
If you would like to discuss bathroom renovation or refurbishments please get in touch to discuss your needs we provide free quotes with no obligation. For bathroom ideas Bathroom & Plumbing Chiswick – Chiswick DIY .
Stay Safe
Williams Plumbing & Heating Ltd