What size drain snake do I need for a clogged sink versus a sewer line?

For bathroom sinks, tubs, and shower drains, a 1/4-inch cable or a simple hair-removal tool in the 18-to-36-inch range is usually enough, since those clogs are typically hair and soap scum near the trap. Kitchen sinks and floor drains often want a 25-foot 1/4-inch or 5/16-inch cable. For main sewer lines and 3-to-6-inch pipe, reviewers point to 1/2-inch or 3/4-inch powered drum machines running 50 to 100 feet of cable.