How to Clear a Clogged Tub Drain in Easy Steps

Your bathroom likely has more drains than any other room in your home, making it more prone to clogs—especially in the bathtub or shower. A clogged drain can be incredibly frustrating, causing water to pool and drain slowly. But the good news? Unclogging it is much easier than you might think. With just a few simple steps, you can have your tub draining smoothly again in no time. Let’s walk through how to tackle that pesky clogged tub drain.

Why Do Bathtubs Get Clogged?

Bathtub and shower drain clogs can be caused by a variety of circumstances. The most typical cause is hair, particularly if someone in your household has long hair. Even if you don’t have long hair, shampoo and shaving residue can accumulate and clog your bathtub drain.

Other obstructions can be caused by soap scum or debris like dirt and sand, which slows drainage and can result in a complete clog. So, how do you deal with a clogged tub drain?

Some homeowners grab for a plunger, which can help but is often ineffective in fixing a slow-moving drain. Others may attempt dumping chemicals down the drain, but we do not encourage it because it is rarely successful and can harm your pipes. Instead, take these simple methods to clear your drain more efficiently.

How To Clear A Clogged Tub Drain

Here are a few steps to follow before unclogging your tub drain:

1. Remove Standing Water: If there’s water in the tub, use a bucket, towels, or a large sponge to remove as much as possible. Dump the water into the nearby toilet and flush it as you go—an easy and fun way to clear the water!
2. Check the Overflow Valve: Use a screwdriver to remove the overflow cover under the faucet, then pull out the metal coil to inspect for hair or debris. Clear out any junk you find. If the coil is clean, don’t worry! If your tub doesn’t have an overflow valve, skip to step 4.
3. Pour Boiling Water: The fun part! Boiling water is excellent for dissolving grease and sediment in the drain line. Slowly pour boiling water down the drain to help clear any gunk or chemicals that might be lingering.
4. Use a Baking Soda and Vinegar Mix: For a natural and effective drain cleaner, use a combination of baking soda and vinegar. Pour a scoop of baking soda (available at any store) down the drain and let it sit for about 20 minutes. Then, add white vinegar and watch the reaction. The foaming action will break down residue and help clear the clog, plus it removes odors. Once the foam subsides, rinse with fresh water.

5. Last Resort – The Plumbing Snake: If the clog remains, it’s time for the plumbing snake. Insert the flexible snake into the drain to push through larger debris. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions, and this should only take a few minutes. If it seems like a lot of work, it may be time to call in the professionals!
   
   We understand how frustrating it can be to deal with a sink, shower drain, or toilet that isn’t working properly. Our skilled professionals are here to help and can get your system back up and running in no time. We pride ourselves on completing the job quickly while saving you time and money. Local Service Pro Plumbing is available around the clock, ready to handle any plumbing issue whenever you need us!