How to Unclog a Bathtub Drain

Updated: August 9, 2023Written by: Kenya McCullum

After a tiring day at work, there’s nothing better than indulging in a relaxing hot bath or shower. But this simple pleasure can turn into a frustrating ordeal if you’re dealing with a clogged bathtub drain. Beyond just being an inconvenience, a blocked drain can gradually give rise to more serious problems like flooding, sewage backups, and even pipe corrosion. Don’t let these issues continue unchecked. Learn how to effectively unclog your bathtub drain and guarantee that your well-deserved moments of relaxation stay uninterrupted.

Common Causes of Clogged Bathtub Drains

It’s important to learn how to unclog a bathtub, but it’s also a good idea to understand why bathtubs become clogged in the first place. The following are some common causes of clogs in bathtub drains.

Hair: Hair is the most common reason for bathtub drain clogs, and it’s no wonder: Every day, we all shed 50 to 100 hairs, so when you factor in every member of your family using the shower, those hairs add up quickly. And if you bathe your pets in the bathtub, it only exacerbates the problem. To prevent this, you may want to install drain covers that will catch hairs and stop them from clogging the pipes.

Shampoo and soap residue: Although soap and shampoo may leave you feeling squeaky clean after a shower, it can wreak havoc on your drain when its residue gets stuck inside. Over time, shampoo and soap residue can build up in your pipes and eventually cause clogs.

Dirt and sand debris: A nice, long walk on the beach can be romantic, but your bathtub drain may not be feeling the love when you take a shower afterward. Whether you’ve built sand castles on the beach or the kids have gotten muddy playing in the backyard, to avoid clogs in the bathtub drain from dirt and sand debris, you may want to consider rinsing off with a hose outside before stepping into the shower.

Objects: Sometimes random objects can end up in your bathtub drain, whether someone accidentally has a piece of jewelry fall off while taking a shower, or children are playing with their toys in a bubble bath. To avoid these kinds of obstructions in your drain, install a drain cover.

Mineral deposits: If you have hard water, deposits of calcium and magnesium may block your drain over time. Installing a water-softening system can remedy the hard water problem and prevent clogs.

How to Unclog a Bathtub Drain

Want to learn how to unclog a bathtub drain? The following are the steps you should take to get rid of clogs.

1. Remove Obstructions From the Drain

If hair or debris is clogging your drain stopper, start by cleaning it out. If you don’t have a stopper and can see the clog, use a paper towel to pull it out. You can also use your fingers or tweezers for deeper access.

2. Clear the Blockage With Boiling Water

If pulling out the clog doesn’t work, try pouring boiling water directly into the drain. This method can melt soap residue and other debris. Use a teapot for a steady, focused pour.

3. Use a Plunger

A plunger is another effective way to unclog your bathtub drain. If the tub is empty, add some water. Place the plunger over the drain and pump it up and down. This creates pressure to dislodge the clog. Repeat five or six times until dirt or hair comes up. Continue plunging until the clog clears and the water flows smoothly.

4. Try Vinegar and Baking Soda

For a natural solution, use vinegar and baking soda. First, pour boiling water into the drain. Then, add 1/4 cup of baking soda and let it sit for 15-20 minutes. Follow with 8 ounces of vinegar and wait another 15 minutes. Finally, pour more water down the drain. This chemical reaction can break up clogs, but it may not work for tougher blockages.

5. Use a Plumber’s Snake

For stubborn clogs, try a plumber’s snake. Wear gloves and goggles for protection. Remove the overflow cover plate and stopper, then insert the snake into the drain. Once you hit the clog, twist the snake and pull it back up to remove the blockage. Replace the overflow cover and stopper afterward.

6. Use Bleach or Drain Cleaner

If other methods fail, use bleach or a drain cleaner. Always follow the product’s instructions carefully. If you’ve used vinegar earlier, flush the drain thoroughly and wait before applying the cleaner.

By following these steps, you can handle most bathtub clogs with ease.

Hire an Experienced Plumbing Professional

Sometimes no matter what you do, you just can’t get rid of a stubborn bathtub drain clog. This is when you’ll probably want to turn to a professional who knows how to unclog a bathtub drain properly. To help you find the best plumbers in your area, we have vetted professionals who have experience with these jobs. As you look at your options, be sure to use our interactive checklist to compare the professionals you’re interested in hiring.