Published on July 13th, 2018 | by Sunit Nandi

How To Clear A Clogged Bathtub Drain In Simple Steps

A clogged bathtub drain is a problem for any home. You just can’t use it until it is fixed. Even though it is a common situation, homeowners find it hard to get rid of the clog. As a result, you spend lots of money by hiring a plumber for this simple task. Cleaning a bathtub drain is much easier than it may seem. All you need is certain tools and cleaning agents to get the job done in minutes. Here are three simple ways on how to clear a clogged bathtub drain.

A. Clean using a drain snake

You will need

Gloves
Paper towel
Screwdrivers
Drain snake

The fastest way to get rid of a blockage in your bathtub drain is to use a drain snake or auger. It is a long coiled wire-like structure that is flexible and can pull out the trapped garbage from the bathtub drain.

Step by Step Guide

Start by removing the standing water if there is an accumulation. Use a bucket or a mug to manually remove water from it.
Now remove the strainer present inside the bathtub. If it has screws, you may require a proper screwdriver to open it up. Also, open the overflow drain. Check for trapped hair and grime on the drain and try to remove them.
Push the drain snake slowly inside the drain pipe until you reach the obstruction.
Slightly push and twist the coiled drain snake until you clear the drain. Pull out the gunk that is blocking the drain and turn on the water. Your drain is unclogged in less than 10 minutes.

B. Baking soda deep cleaning

You will need

Gloves
Paper towel
Screwdrivers
Hot water
Baking Soda
White vinegar

An easy yet effective way to clean away the clog present in your bathtub is using baking soda. It is nontoxic and will clean away the gunk that is situated deep in the drain pipe.

Step by Step Guide

Once you open the strainer and clean it with a paper towel, you can use this method to clean away the pipe.
Boil water in a large pot or a teapot and pour it directly but slowly over the drain.
Mix baking soda (1/4 cup) with white vinegar (1 cup) and pour it over the drain. It will remove the trapped gunk and open up the drain pipe.
You may have to wait for 18-20 minutes for it to work and dissolve the gunk. Now pour boiling water again over it. Check if it worked by turning on the bathtub.

C. Chemical Cleaning

You will need

Gloves
Paper towel
Screwdrivers
Chemical drain cleaner
Timer

If nothing else works, you may use a chemical drain cleaner that is easily available in any home improvement store to remove the clog. Make sure you follow all the safety instruction as chemicals pose a hazard. Find a product that is specifically formulated to unclog bathtub drains. Read carefully the instructions provided by the manufacturer of the cleaning agent. Don’t forget to wear safety gloves before you start.

Step by Step Guide

Remove the accumulated water from your tub with the help of a bucket, ensure that it is clean and dry. You may use old towels and rags to clean away the water.
Now pour the required amount (as mentioned on your product label) of the product in the drain. Wait for 20-30 minutes or as mentioned on the specific chemical cleaning product.
Turn on the tap to check if water is passing freely through the drain leaving no standing water. Chemical cleaners are harsh on the gunk and dissolve them effectively to unclog your drain, however, it is always best to try other methods before using it.

The above-mentioned ways on how to clear a clogged bathtub drain should be able to solve the problem and make the bathtub drain function well. It will not only save money but your time too. However, if nothing seems to work, you may need to take professional help. A plumber would be able to find out the exact problem and fix it efficiently. Always ensure safety while working. Don’t forget to cover the drain when working with screws of the overflow drain and it may accidentally fall inside increasing your problems. Always ensure a regular cleaning of the bathtub drain as it will definitely prevent it from clogging.

Tags: bathtub, clear, clogged, drain, how to, simple, steps

About the Author

Sunit Nandi I'm the leader of Techno FAQ. Also an engineering college student with immense interest in science and technology. Other interests include literature, coin collecting, gardening and photography. Always wish to live life like there's no tomorrow.