How to Unclog a Hair Clogged Bathtub Drain in 3 Easy Steps

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How to Unclog a Hair Clogged Bathtub Drain

A clogged bathtub drain is a common problem, but it’s one that’s easy to fix. With a few simple tools and a few minutes of your time, you can have your bathtub drain flowing freely again.

In this article, we’ll show you how to unclog a hair clogged bathtub drain using three different methods:

  • Using a plunger
  • Using a drain snake
  • Using a chemical drain cleaner

We’ll also provide tips on how to prevent future clogs from forming. So if you’re dealing with a clogged bathtub drain, read on for the solution!

Step Tools Instructions
1 Plunger Place the plunger over the drain and push down and up several times. The suction should loosen the clog and allow the water to drain.
2 Baking soda and vinegar Pour a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by a cup of vinegar. The two chemicals will react and create a fizzy mixture that will help to loosen the clog. Let the mixture sit for 15 minutes, then pour boiling water down the drain to rinse it away.
3 Drain snake If the clog is stubborn, you can try using a drain snake. A drain snake is a long, flexible tool that is inserted into the drain and used to loosen the clog. Once the clog is loosened, you can use the plunger or boiling water to clear it out.

A clogged bathtub drain is a common problem that can be frustrating and time-consuming to fix. There are a number of different ways to unclog a bathtub drain, depending on the severity of the clog. In this article, we will discuss the different causes of bathtub clogs, as well as the different solutions available. We will also provide tips on how to prevent bathtub drains from clogging in the future.

Identifying the Problem

The first step to fixing a clogged bathtub drain is to identify the problem. There are a few different signs that can indicate that your bathtub drain is clogged, including:

  • The water drains slowly or not at all.
  • The water backs up into the bathtub.
  • The bathtub smells bad.
  • There is a build-up of soap scum or hair around the drain.

If you notice any of these signs, it is likely that your bathtub drain is clogged.

What Causes Bathtub Drains to Clog?

There are a number of different things that can cause a bathtub drain to clog, including:

  • Hair: Hair is one of the most common causes of bathtub clogs. As hair accumulates in the drain, it can form a thick, tangled mass that prevents water from draining.
  • Soap scum: Soap scum is a residue that is left behind by soap and other cleaning products. Over time, soap scum can build up in the drain and cause a clog.
  • Grease: Grease can also cause bathtub drains to clog. Grease can come from cooking oil, lotions, or other products. When grease gets into the drain, it can solidify and form a clog.
  • Other debris: Other debris, such as paper towels, Q-tips, or toys, can also cause bathtub drains to clog.

How to Prevent Bathtub Drains from Clogging

There are a few things you can do to prevent bathtub drains from clogging, including:

  • Don’t pour grease down the drain. Grease can solidify and form a clog. Instead, scrape grease into the trash or pour it into a can of kitty litter.
  • Rinse hair out of the drain after each shower. This will help to prevent hair from building up and causing a clog.
  • Use a drain strainer. A drain strainer will catch hair and other debris before it can reach the drain.
  • Clean the drain regularly. Every few months, pour a cup of baking soda down the drain and follow it with a cup of vinegar. The baking soda and vinegar will react to form a fizzy solution that will help to break down any clogs.

Solutions for Clogged Bathtub Drains

There are a number of different ways to unclog a bathtub drain, depending on the severity of the clog. If the clog is minor, you may be able to clear it with a plunger or a drain snake. If the clog is more severe, you may need to use a chemical drain cleaner or hire a professional drain cleaning service.

Chemical Drain Cleaners

Chemical drain cleaners are a quick and easy way to unclog a bathtub drain. However, they can be harmful if they are not used properly. Always read the label carefully and follow the directions before using a chemical drain cleaner.

To use a chemical drain cleaner, pour the cleaner into the drain and let it sit for the amount of time specified on the label. Then, flush the drain with hot water.

Mechanical Drain Cleaners

Mechanical drain cleaners, such as a plunger or a drain snake, can be used to clear more stubborn clogs. A plunger works by creating a seal around the drain and forcing air into the clog. This can help to break up the clog and allow it to be flushed away.

A drain snake is a long, flexible tool that is inserted into the drain. The drain snake can be used to reach deep into the drain and loosen the clog.

DIY Solutions

There are a few DIY solutions that you can try to unclog a bathtub drain. These solutions are generally safe to use, but they may not be as effective as chemical or mechanical drain cleaners.

  • Baking soda and vinegar: Pour a cup of baking soda down the drain and follow it with a cup of vinegar. The baking soda and vinegar will react to form a fizzy solution that will help to break down the clog.
  • Hot water and dish soap: Pour a pot of hot water down the drain and follow it with a cup of dish soap. The hot water will help to loosen the clog and the dish soap will help to dissolve any grease or soap scum.
  • Salt and vinegar: Pour a cup of salt down the drain and follow it with a cup of vinegar. The salt and vinegar will react to form a

3. Tips for Unclogging a Clogged Bathtub Drain

Clogged bathtub drains are a common problem, but they can be easily fixed with a few simple steps. Here are some tips for unclogging a clogged bathtub drain:

  • Be careful not to damage the drain. When you’re trying to unclog a drain, it’s important to be careful not to damage the pipes. Using too much force or using the wrong tools can damage the drain and make the problem worse.
  • Use the right tools for the job. There are a variety of tools available to help you unclog a drain. The best tool for the job will depend on the type of clog. For a simple clog, you may be able to use a plunger. For a more stubborn clog, you may need to use a drain snake or a chemical drain cleaner.
  • Follow the instructions carefully. When using a plunger or a drain snake, it’s important to follow the instructions carefully. If you don’t follow the instructions, you could damage the drain or make the clog worse.

Here are some additional tips for unclogging a clogged bathtub drain:

  • Try pouring a cup of hot water down the drain. This can help to loosen the clog and make it easier to remove.
  • Use a vinegar and baking soda solution. Pour a cup of vinegar down the drain, followed by a cup of baking soda. The vinegar and baking soda will react together to create a fizzy solution that can help to break down the clog.
  • Use a commercial drain cleaner. If the clog is severe, you may need to use a commercial drain cleaner. Follow the directions on the product label carefully.

4. When to Call a Professional

If you’ve tried to unclog your bathtub drain yourself and you’re not successful, it’s time to call a professional. A plumber can use specialized tools and equipment to clear the clog and prevent future problems.

Here are some signs that you should call a professional to unclog your bathtub drain:

  • The clog is severe and you can’t clear it yourself.
  • The clog is causing water to back up into the bathtub.
  • You’re not comfortable working on your own plumbing.

Clogged bathtub drains are a common problem, but they can be easily fixed with a few simple steps. By following the tips in this article, you can clear the clog and prevent future problems. If you’re not successful, don’t hesitate to call a professional plumber.

Here are some additional resources that you may find helpful:

  • [How to Unclog a Clogged Bathtub Drain](https://www.thespruce.com/how-to-unclog-a-clogged-bathtub-drain-4172200)
  • [How to Use a Plunger to Unclog a Drain](https://www.hunker.com/12414753/how-to-use-a-plunger-to-unclog-a-drain)
  • [How to Use a Drain Snake to Unclog a Drain](https://www.familyhandyman.com/plumbing/drains/how-to-use-a-drain-snake-to-unclog-a-drain/)
  • [How to Use a Chemical Drain Cleaner to Unclog a Drain](https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home-cleaning/tips/a29022889/how-to-use-a-drain-cleaner/)

    How do I know if my bathtub drain is clogged?

  • Water is slow to drain or doesn’t drain at all.
  • The water level in the tub rises after each use.
  • You hear gurgling or bubbling sounds coming from the drain.
  • There is a foul odor coming from the drain.

How do I unclog my bathtub drain without a plunger?

1. Use a drain snake. A drain snake is a long, flexible cable with a hook on the end. It can be used to reach into the drain and loosen any clogs.
2. Pour boiling water down the drain. The boiling water will help to dissolve any soap scum or hair that is clogging the drain.
3. Use a chemical drain cleaner. Chemical drain cleaners can be effective at clearing clogs, but they should be used with caution. Follow the directions on the product label carefully.
4. Use a vinegar and baking soda solution. Vinegar and baking soda are a natural and non-toxic way to unclog a drain. To use this method, pour 1 cup of vinegar down the drain, followed by 1 cup of baking soda. The vinegar and baking soda will react together to create a fizzy solution that will help to loosen the clog.

How do I unclog my bathtub drain with a plunger?

1. Place the plunger over the drain and create a tight seal.
2. Push down on the plunger and release it quickly several times. This will create a suction that will help to loosen the clog.
3. Continue to plunge until the water drains freely.

What are some tips for preventing bathtub drain clogs?

  • Keep hair out of the drain. Use a drain cover or strainer to catch hair before it can go down the drain.
  • Clean the drain regularly. A simple cleaning once a week can help to prevent clogs from forming.
  • Use hot water when washing dishes or taking a bath. Hot water can help to dissolve soap scum and other buildup that can clog the drain.
  • Avoid using harsh chemicals in your drains. Harsh chemicals can damage the pipes and make clogs more likely to occur.

What should I do if I can’t unclog my bathtub drain myself?

If you have tried all of the above methods and you are still unable to unclog your bathtub drain, it is time to call a professional plumber. A plumber will be able to use specialized tools and techniques to clear the clog and get your drain flowing freely again.

In this article, we have discussed several methods for unclogging a bathtub drain that is clogged with hair. We have covered both chemical and non-chemical methods, so you can choose the one that is best for you.

We hope that this article has been helpful and that you are now able to unclog your bathtub drain with ease. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to leave them below.

Author Profile

Liana Farrell
Liana Farrell
Liana Farrell is the owner of toiletty.com. She is a mom of two and is very passionate about home improvement.

Liana has ten years of home improvement experience, and in her own words, she said: “I love improving the home, and I’m very passionate about keeping the home in the best possible condition. I love it!”

Liana Farrell balances beauty and functionality when she goes about her home improvement jobs.