How To Unclog Bathroom Drain

You’ve come to the right place if you want to learn how to unclog bathroom drains. Our experts at City Rooter have put together a collection of advice and tips to unclogging bathtub drains. There are a variety of simple solutions to get your plumbing system back on track. Whether your clogged bathtub drain is a result of hair, foreign objects, or simply extended use, you can find all answers you need below.

bathroom drain clogged

Why Is Your Bathtub Drain Clogged?

A clogged tub drain can be a huge source of frustration, especially if you only have one bathtub. Fixing your clogged bathtub drain begins with identifying the source of the problem.

Depending on the cause, there are different unclogging techniques you can use, such as how to unclog a bathtub drain full of hair versus a drain clogged with bath toys.

Here are some possible reasons for your clogged bathtub drain:

  • Hair build-up
  • Soap scum and residue
  • Hard water
  • Dirt and grime
  • Bath bomb components (glitter, Epson salts, flower petals, etc.)
  • Corroded, dented, or worn pipes
  • Foreign objects (bath toys, beauty products, shower caps, etc.)

How to Unclog Bathtub Drain

The first option you may turn to when your bathtub won’t drain is chemical cleaners. While drain cleaners can be incredibly helpful, using them repeatedly can damage your pipes over time. Here is a list of steps on how to unclog bathtub drains effectively and efficiently.

  • Remove the bathtub stopper or strainer. Every tub drain is different and some stoppers are easier to remove than others. Depending on the type of drain, you may be able to pull out the stopper with your fingers or it may require tools, such as pliers or a wrench.
  • Dispose of easy-to-reach hair or debris. Using a screwdriver, your hands, a wire coat hanger, or needle-nose pliers, remove any blockages from the drain. Once the drain components are clear, rinse off any remaining grime with water.
  • Flush the drain with boiling water. Using a kettle or the stove top, boil approximately two litres of water. Slowly pour the water down the clogged bathtub drain to dissolve and dislodge soap scum and blockages. As an additional measure, you can pour ½-1 cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by ½-1 cup of vinegar.
  • Plunge the clogged tub drain. Plunging a bathtub drain is very similar to unclogging a toilet. Fill the drain with a few inches of hot water and place the plunger over top. Push down on the plunger repeatedly to pull out the blockages.

Tips to Stop Clogged Tub Drain

Here are a few tips to avoid a clogged tub drain:

  • Install hair catchers and drain protectors
  • Wash off makeup before getting into the bathtub
  • Avoid bath products that don’t dissolve in water
  • Keep up with pipe maintenance regularly
Clogged Tub Drain

If Your Bathtub Still Won’t Drain, Call Professionals

If your tub drain is still clogged even after you learn how to unclog bathtub drains and have employed all the above techniques, don’t fret, because City Rooter can help. Contact us for professional drain cleaning services either by phone or by using our online quick service request form.

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