Do you need a flexible P trap that lets you shape it as necessary and adjust the length? Many sinks in your home use a P trap, but sometimes a flexible one is super helpful.
Some sinks are tight on space or may not accommodate a fixed P trap. We scoured the Internet to identify some of the best flexible and adjustable P traps on the market.
In this PlumbingNav guide, we cover:
What is a flexible P trap?
Who can benefit from a flexible P trap?
Can you use a flexible P trap for a sink drain?
Are flexible P traps or expandable P traps any good?
Best flexible P traps reviewed
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Product
Our Top Pick
Our Top Pick
Cinsda Flexible Sink Drain Pipe, 1-1/2 P-trap with Adapter, Expandable Tubular Drain Tubing Pipe, Adjustable P Trap
Made from polypropylene, this accordion-style flexible sink drain pipe won’t rust and can withstand heat up to 212 degrees. Adjust between roughly 8” – 25”. Designed for 1.78” pipes, this pipe may be too large for your bathroom.
A flexible trap arm offers optimal flexibility. Many flexible P traps include an extension tube with an accordion design. These allow the P trap to stretch or contract as necessary.
P traps also allow you to create the shape you want for the best drain trap performance in case you want an S trap instead of a P trap. Finally, you can find adjustable P traps that include adaptors for different drain sizes. Most adjustable P traps consist of PVC pipes.
Why Are there flexible P traps?
There are flexible P traps so that you can use them in different areas of your home, especially sinks that have limited space (such as a vessel sink or pedestal sink) or require extra space. This is especially true under the kitchen sink.
You can also use the P trap in multiple areas of your home thanks to connector adaptors, making it reusable so that you get more use of the trap and increasing its value to you.
Who Can Benefit From Using a Flexible P Trap?
You can benefit from a flexible P trap if you plan to renovate the bathroom or kitchen. The P trap can give you the opportunity to create extra space, even if it doesn’t accommodate a standard P trap. You can also use the P trap for other sinks when necessary.
Many homeowners use flexible p traps when installing a dishwasher or garbage disposal. Space can get pretty tight under the sink, with various pipes needing to compete for room. A flexible p trap is a popular solution vs rigid pipes.
Can You Use Flexible Pipe for Sink Drain?
Yes. You can use a flexible plumbing pipe for a sink drain. You can use the adjustable P trap for both your bathroom sink, kitchen sink, and utility sink to prevent clogs and potentially fix smelly bathroom drains.
In some cases, you can even use your P trap with your air conditioning system’s vent pipe.
Are Flexible Drain Pipes or Expandable P Traps Any good?
You can get flexible drain pipes or expandable P traps that hold up just as long as other traps.
The best P trap uses high-quality materials and maintains its shape under pressure.
While we recommend high-quality P traps, be careful that the P trap can accommodate hot water and is up to your local residential plumbing codes, especially if you plan to use it as a permanent solution.
Flexible P Trap Reviews
Now let’s explore our favorite units so you can decide on the perfect choice for your situation.
Made from polypropylene, this accordion-style flexible sink drain pipe won’t rust and can withstand heat up to 212 degrees. Adjust between roughly 8” – 25”. Designed for 1.78” pipes, this pipe may be too large for your bathroom.
The plastic pipe extends from 10” to 13” thanks to an accordion design on part of the pipe, and fits both 1.5” or 1.25” pipes. Suitable for constrained spaces and odd installations. According to the product description, this product works best as a temporary solution.
Install your new drain quickly and easily thanks to the easy tighten clamp, trap loop, and threaded adapter. The plastic material is strong and won’t leak after impact. Accordion design reaches up to 30”, and it fits both 1.5” and 1.25” drains.
This rubber P trap works on both your bathroom drain and kitchen drain using connection adapters to fit both 1.5” and 1.25” OD drain pipes. The product includes drive clamps to ensure secure placement.
Pros
Made from rubber
Adjustable connections
Drive clamps included
Cons
Not freeze proof
Drive clamps one size
Sizing inconsistencies
How do you Install a Flex P Trap?
To install a flex P trap, start by verifying the P trap will fit your drain. Next, remove the old P trap carefully, having a bucket ready for any excess water. Clean the drain while you have access to it, as you may find hair, food waste, or other debris in the local drain.
Finally, attach a rubber O ring to the ends of your new P trap to ensure that it won’t leak. Next, connect the P trap and, if applicable, secure the shape as necessary.
See the video below for how to install your flexible P trap.
Flexible P Trap FAQs
Are flexible drain pipes any good?
While many people use flexible P traps as a temporary solution, high-quality products will hold up permanently. If looking for a permanent solution, ensure the P trap meets building codes and consists of durable material.
Can you use a flexible pipe for sink drain?
Yes. You can use a flexible pipe for a sink drain, especially adjustable pipes that allow you to adjust the size of the connections and the length and shape of the trap.
How do you install a flex P trap?
Step One: Turn off water to the plumbing fixture
Step Two: Remove old P trap
Step Three: Attach O ring to connectors on the new P trap
Step Four: Adjust length and shape as necessary
Step Five: Connect P trap
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About Plumbing Navigator
We write about "all things plumbing," helping you navigate common questions, repairs, and the best plumbing products on the market.
About Plumbing Navigator
We write about “all things plumbing,” helping you navigate common questions, repairs, and the best plumbing products on the market.