Hurricane Prep for Your Kitchen Sink

When a hurricane approaches, most people think about boarding up windows, securing outdoor furniture, and stocking emergency supplies. But one area often overlooked is the kitchen sink and plumbing system. Your sink connects directly to your home’s water supply and drainage, which are highly vulnerable during storms. Without preparation, you could face flooding, backups, or water contamination that make recovery harder once the storm has passed.

The first step in managing your sink during a hurricane is prevention. Before the storm hits, clear your sink and disposal of all food waste to prevent clogs. Shut off and tightly close sink drains using plugs or stoppers—this helps block floodwater or sewage backups from rising into your home if the sewer system becomes overwhelmed. For households in flood-prone areas, a backflow preventer is a smart long-term investment.

During the storm, avoid using your sink as much as possible. Heavy rains and flooding put strain on municipal and septic systems, and running extra water can worsen backups. Garbage disposals should remain off completely since power surges or outages could damage the motor. Treat your sink as a sealed fixture until the storm passes to avoid unnecessary risks.

After the hurricane, inspect your sink area carefully. Check under the cabinet for signs of leaks, standing water, or soft cabinet boards. If your water supply was interrupted or contaminated, run the tap for several minutes once service is restored to flush the lines. Disinfect the sink basin with a bleach solution to kill bacteria that may have entered during the storm. For homes that experienced flooding, professional inspection of your sink plumbing is strongly recommended.

At I Hate My Sink, we understand how vulnerable kitchens can be during hurricane season. Taking simple precautions before and after the storm can protect your sink, your plumbing, and your home from costly water damage. A little preparation goes a long way toward keeping your kitchen safe, clean, and functional—even in the toughest weather.

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