5 easy steps to fix a slow-draining bathtub – learn how to unclog your drain!

Is your bathtub drain slow or completely clogged? Plumbing issues can be frustrating, but there are several steps you can take to clear the drain and get your bath moving smoothly again. Before you call in the experts, try some simple techniques to unclog the drain yourself.

The first step is to remove the stopper from the drain. Depending on the type of stopper you have, this may involve unscrewing it or simply pulling it out. Once the stopper is out, you can use a plunger to try and force any blockages through the drain. If this doesn’t work, you can try using a drain snake to physically remove any obstructions.

If these methods don’t solve the issue, it may be time to turn to a more powerful solution. Baking soda and vinegar can be a great natural remedy for stubborn blockages. Simply pour a cup of baking soda into the drain, followed by a cup of vinegar. Let this mixture sit for about 30 minutes, then flush it down with hot water. This can help to break up any residue and clear the drain.

It’s important to note that while these steps can be effective in many cases, some clogs may be more serious and require professional assistance. If you’ve tried everything and the drain is still not clear, it’s best to call in a plumber to avoid causing further damage to your plumbing system. Additionally, if you have a septic system, be sure to check with your local regulations before submitting any chemicals or foreign objects down the drain.

By following these simple steps, you can learn how to unclog a bathtub drain and avoid the need for costly repairs. Remember to always prioritize safety and take precautions when dealing with plumbing issues in your home. With a little patience and some basic knowledge, you can keep your bathroom running smoothly and prevent future blockages.

How to unclog a bathtub drain

If you’ve ever experienced a slow-emptying bathtub drain, you know what a nuisance it can be. Luckily, there are several simple steps you can take to unclog your bathtub drain and get the water flowing freely again.

Step 1: Remove the stopper

The first step in unclogging a bathtub drain is to remove the stopper. Different types of stoppers have different removal methods, so check your specific stopper for instructions. In most cases, you will need to unscrew or lift the stopper to remove it.

Step 2: Clear any obvious obstructions

Before moving on to more advanced unclogging methods, it’s a good idea to check for any obvious obstructions in the drain. Use a screwdriver or your fingers to remove any visible hair or debris that may be clogging the drain.

Step 3: Use a plunger

If clearing the obvious obstructions didn’t solve the issue, the next step is to use a plunger. Fill the tub with enough water to cover the plunger, then place the plunger over the drain and pump it up and down vigorously. This will create suction and help to dislodge any blockages.

Step 4: Try a drain snake

If the plunger doesn’t work, it’s time to try a drain snake. A drain snake is a long, flexible tool that can be inserted into the drain to remove clogs. Push the snake into the drain until you feel resistance, then rotate the snake to break up the blockage. Pull the snake out and repeat the process until the drain is clear.

Step 5: Use baking soda and vinegar

If all else fails, you can try using a mixture of baking soda and vinegar to break up the clog. Pour a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by a cup of vinegar. Let the mixture sit for about 30 minutes, then flush it with hot water. This solution can help to dissolve any residue that may be causing the blockage.

By following these simple steps, you can unclog your bathtub drain and avoid the need to call a plumber. However, if the problem persists or you’re uncomfortable with doing it yourself, it’s always best to consult a professional. Remember to always read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using any plumbing or cleaning products.

1 Remove obvious obstructions

When your bathtub drain starts to empty slowly or gets completely blocked, it’s time to take action. The most common reason for this issue is the presence of obvious obstructions in your drain. These obstructions can include hair, soap scum, and other bathroom residue that has built up over time.

The first step to unclogging your bathtub drain is to remove these obvious obstructions. Here are the steps you can follow to clear your drain:

1. Remove the drain stopper or overflow cover. Depending on the design of your bathtub, you may need to unscrew or simply lift the stopper or cover.
2. Once the stopper or cover is out of the way, use your fingers or a pair of tweezers to remove any hair or other visible debris from the drain.
3. If there is a significant amount of hair or debris that you can’t reach with your fingers or tweezers, you can try using a plunger. Fill the bathtub with enough water to cover the bottom of the plunger, and then start plunging vigorously. The suction created by the plunger can help dislodge and remove the obstructions from the drain.
4. If the plunger doesn’t work, your next option is to use a drain snake. A drain snake is a long, flexible tool that can be inserted into the drain to dislodge and remove blockages. Insert the snake into the drain and twist it while pushing it deeper until you feel resistance. Once you encounter resistance, continue twisting and pushing until the snake moves freely through the drain. This indicates that the obstructions have been cleared.
5. After removing the obstructions, run hot water down the drain to flush out any remaining residue and ensure that the drain is clear.

Following these steps will usually clear most blockages in your bathtub drain. However, if you’ve tried these methods and the drain is still not clear, it may be necessary to call a professional plumber for further assistance.

2 Boil the blockage away

If the plumbing experts are right and a clog is causing the water to drain slowly, one simple solution is to try boiling water.

Step 1: Boil a kettle or pot of water until it is bubbling hot.

Step 2: In the meantime, remove the screws from the overflow plate on the bathtub drain. This will help direct the hot water directly into the drain.

Step 3: Pour the boiling water into the bathtub drain slowly. Be careful not to pour too much too quickly, as it could overflow.

Step 4: Repeat this process a few times to ensure that the hot water is fully breaking up any blockages.

Boiling water can be a good solution for unclogging drains since it can melt away any residue or obstructions in the pipes. However, it is important to note that this method may not work for all types of blockages.

If pouring boiling water doesn’t clear the blockage, it may be best to try another method or call a plumbing professional for help. Additionally, it is always a good idea to try other unclogging steps before resorting to boiling water, as it may not be the most effective solution for all types of blockages.

3 Use a plunger

Using a plunger is an obvious and often the best method to unclog a bathtub drain. Plungers work by creating a strong suction that helps to dislodge any blockages in the pipe.

Steps:

1. Make sure the bathtub is partially filled with water. The water level should be enough to cover the plunger head.
2. Remove any drain stopper or overflow cover that may be in the way.
3. Place the plunger over the drain and ensure a tight seal is formed.
4. Start plunging vigorously, using both hands to create a strong up and down motion.
5. Continue plunging until the water starts moving freely down the drain. This may take some time, so be patient and persistent.

Using a plunger is a good first step to try before moving on to more advanced methods, such as using a drain snake. It is often effective for minor blockages that can be cleared with a little effort.

If the plunger does not solve the issue, it may be necessary to call in the experts or try other methods, such as using baking soda and vinegar or using a drain snake to clear obstructions.

When using a plunger, it’s important to remember a few things:

• Ensure the plunger is clean and free from any residue that could complicate the unclogging process. If necessary, clean the plunger before using it.
• Keep in mind that not all plungers are the same. A standard sink plunger may not be as effective in unclogging a bathtub drain. Consider investing in a plunger specifically designed for use in bathtubs.

Using a plunger can be a simple and effective solution for unclogging a bathtub drain. It’s a good DIY method to try before calling a professional plumber for assistance.

Written by Lindsay Wootton, July 2022

4 Add baking soda and vinegar

When it comes to unclogging a bathtub drain, one of the most effective and simple solutions is to use baking soda and vinegar. This common household combination can help to break down obstructions and clear the drain, allowing the water to flow freely again.

To use this method, start by removing any standing water from the bathtub. You can do this with a cup or a bucket, but be careful not to pour it into the drain as it may cause splashing.

Next, pour half a cup of baking soda directly into the drain. Make sure to distribute it evenly and let it sit for a few minutes.

Then, pour one cup of vinegar into the drain. You can use regular white vinegar for this step.

As soon as the vinegar comes into contact with the baking soda, it will create a chemical reaction that produces carbon dioxide gas. This gas will work to break up any residue or blockages in the drain.

It’s a good idea to cover the drain with a stopper or a cloth to prevent the mixture from overflowing. You may hear a hissing or bubbling sound, which is a sign that the solution is working.

Allow the baking soda and vinegar mixture to sit in the drain for about 30 minutes. During this time, the solution will continue to work its magic, breaking down any remaining obstructions.

After 30 minutes, remove the stopper or cloth and run hot water down the drain to flush out any loosened debris. This will help to ensure that the drain is completely clear.

If the bathtub drain is still clogged, you can try repeating the process or move on to other methods, such as using a plunger or a plumber’s snake. However, in most cases, the baking soda and vinegar solution will be enough to solve the issue.

Learning how to unclog a bathtub drain is a useful skill to have as a homeowner. By following these simple steps, you can keep your bathroom drains running smoothly and avoid the hassle of calling in professional plumbers.

5 Invest in a plumber’s snake

If the previous steps have not been effective in unclogging your bathtub drain, it may be time to invest in a plumber’s snake. A plumber’s snake is a long, flexible tool that is designed to clear stubborn blockages in plumbing systems.

Plumber’s snakes are available at most home improvement stores and can be a great solution for clearing obstructions that are deeper in the drain pipe. They are also effective in removing hair, soap residue, and other debris that may be causing the clog.

Using a plumber’s snake is simple. Start by removing the overflow stopper from the bathtub, if there is one. Insert the snake into the overflow opening and slowly feed it into the drain. As you push the snake through the pipe, it will help to break up any blockages and allow water to flow freely again.

Keep in mind that it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using a plumber’s snake, as improper use can cause damage to your plumbing system. It’s also a good idea to wear gloves and protective eyewear to prevent any injury.

If you’re not comfortable using a plumber’s snake or if the blockage is still not cleared after trying this method, it may be time to call in the experts. Professional plumbers have the experience and tools to tackle even the most stubborn clogs, and can help restore your bathtub drain to its full functionality.

What can I pour down my bathtub drain to unclog it

When you have a slow or clogged bathtub drain, there are several steps you can take to unclog it before calling a professional plumber. One effective solution is to pour certain substances down the drain that can help clear any obstructions and allow the water to flow freely again. Here are some options you can consider:

1. Vinegar and Baking Soda: This is a simple and popular method to unclog a bathtub drain. Start by pouring half a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by half a cup of vinegar. Cover the drain with a stopper and let the mixture sit for at least 30 minutes. Then, pour boiling water down the drain to flush away the residue and any remaining blockages.
2. Boiling Water: In most cases, pouring boiling water down the drain can be a good first step to clear minor blockages. Boil a kettle of water and carefully pour it down the drain in a slow and steady stream. This can help break down any grease or soap residue that may be causing the slow drain.
3. Chemical Drain Cleaners: If the above steps do not work, you can try using a chemical drain cleaner. However, it is important to read and follow the instructions carefully, as these cleaners can be harmful to both you and your plumbing. Additionally, use these cleaners sparingly as they can damage your pipes if used too frequently.
4. Plunger: If you have a plunger at home, you can try using it to unclog your bathtub drain. Make sure there is enough water in the tub to cover the plunger and create a vacuum seal. Place the plunger over the drain and vigorously plunge up and down for a few times. This can help dislodge any blockages and get the water flowing freely again.
5. Plumbing Snake: If none of the above methods work, you may need to use a plumbing snake or auger to remove the blockage from your bathtub drain. A plumbing snake is a long, flexible tool that can be inserted into the drain to break up or retrieve the blockage. This may require some patience and skill, so it is advisable to consult with a professional plumber if you are unsure how to use a plumbing snake.

Remember, before attempting any of these steps, always check your bathtub’s overflow drain to ensure there is no excess water. If there is, use a screwdriver to remove the overflow cover and drain the water until it is below the overflow level. This will prevent any overflow issues while you are working on unclogging the drain.

It is important to note that these solutions may not work for all types of blockages or plumbing issues. If the problem persists or if you are unsure about how to proceed, it is best to call in the experts and seek professional plumbing assistance. They will have the necessary tools and expertise to diagnose and solve the issue effectively.