A blocked bathtub drain is a typical but irritating family problem. It interrupts your daily life and ultimately can even lead to a bigger plumbing issue, if left untreated. One of the most common causes for these clogs is hair buildup, often along with soap scum and other debris that accumulates over time. The good news is that clearing a bathtub drain that’s clogged with hair don’t always need a plumber — there are a few effective DIY methods that do the job before you need to get the professionals involved.
Understanding the Problem
Before getting into solutions, it’s important to understand what causes bathtub drains to clog and the importance of tackling this issue in a timely manner.
Causes of Clogs
Hair Accumulation
The No. 1 cause of clogged bathtub drains? Hair. When hair is washed, it goes down the drain, but it gets caught and tangled and forms clots that trap other material and clog water flow.
Soap Scum and Other Debris
Soap combines with minerals in the water to create a sticky residue that coats the walls of your drainpipe. That sticky layer holds on to hair, dirt, and other debris, making matters worse.
Signs of a Clogged Drain
Slow Drainage
If water drains more slowly than normal after a bath or shower, it’s a reliable indicator of a clog.
Unpleasant Odors
A blocked drain can also cause stench, as trapped hair and debris are decomposed in the pipe.
Fallout for Neglecting Cloggers
The throbbing pain can easily and quickly turn into a headache if you forget about a blocked bath drain.
- Plumbing Problems: If you have a clogged drain, it puts pressure on your plumbing system that could result in pipe damage or leaks.
- Water Damage: Worn-out clogs can result in water backups, causing leaks or overflow that damage floors and walls.
By taking care of clogs early on, you could save yourself time, money, and headaches down the road.
Preparation Before Unclogging
Make sure you have the right tools and safety precautions before trying to unclog your bathtub drain.
Gathering Tools and Materials
Here’s what you will need to start:
- Drain claw or hook
- Plunger
- Baking soda and vinegar
- Boiling water
- Towels
- Rubber gloves
Having these supplies ready means you’re set to attack the clog properly.
Safety Precautions
Wear Gloves
Wear rubber gloves at all times to keep your hands safe from dirt, debris, or any chemicals you may apply.
Ensure Proper Ventilation
If you are using chemical drain cleaners, open windows or turn on the fan to avoid inhaling noxious fumes.
By taking these steps, the process is safe and smooth.
Step-by-Step Methods to Unclog a Bathtub Drain Full of Hair
Let’s take a look at six ways to unclog your bathtub drain. If that doesn’t work, by all means, choose the approach that will work best for your situation.
Manual Removal
The simplest solution is often the best. Begin by manually eliminating hair and garbage from the drain.
Remove the Drain Stopper
- Remove the drain stopper by unscrewing it or lifting it.
- If it’s stuck, check your bathtub’s manual or try loosening it with a screwdriver.
Grab It With Some Tweezers or a Hook
- Use a pair of tweezers or a drain claw and insert it into the drain.
- Gently pull out any visible and hair and debris.
- Ditch the debris in the trash so it doesn’t end up flushed back down the drain.
Pro Tip: A drain claw is great to go further down a pipe and grab clumps of hair.
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Boiling Water
Hot water is an easy and inexpensive remedy for mild clogs.
How Hot Water Helps
Boiling water helps dissolve soap scum and loosen hair, which can make flushing the debris down the drain easier.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Boil a pot of water.
- Carefully pour the hot water down the drain.
- For better results, repeat the same process 2–3 times.
Baking Soda & Vinegar
So here is an eco-friendly, highly effective natural remedy.
Chemical Reaction Explanation
Baking soda and vinegar react fizzy and break down the clogs.
Detailed Instructions
- Add ½ cup baking soda to the drain.
- Pour in 1 cup of vinegar, and immediately plug the drain.
- Give it 15–20 minutes as the mixture does its work.
- Pour boiling water along the drain.
This method works great for unclogging light to moderate clogs and is safe for your pipes.
Using a Drain Claw
Flexible tool specifically designed to pull clogs)
What is a Drain Claw?
A drain claw is a long, flexible tool with barbs that catch hair and debris.
How to Use It
- Place the drain claw into the pipe.
- Twist and push it down to snag hair.
- Gently pull it out and dispose of the debris.
Continue repeating this until the drain clears.
Plunger Technique
Pardig and Wien agree that, yes, a plunger is good for loosening stubborn clogs.
Using a Plunger Effectively
- Make sure there’s enough water in the tub to cover the base of the plunger.
- Form a secure seal between the plunger and the drain.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Move the plunger in and out vigorously for 30 seconds.
- See whether the water drains away.
- Repeat as needed.
Chemical Drain Products
- For substantial blockages, chemical cleaners might be a resort of last resort.
Various Types of Chemical Cleaners
- Gel-based cleaners
- Foaming cleaners
When Using Chemicals: Safety Tips
Follow the instructions on the label of the product.
- Do not combine chemicals, as this can create dangerous vapors.
- Please rinse down drain after use.
Preventive Measures
Always preventing better cure. Here are several simple tips for keeping your bathtub drain clog-free.
Regular Maintenance Tips
- Regularly flush your drain with a combination of baking soda and vinegar to melt away minor buildups.
Drain Screens Or Strainers
- Put a drain screen in place to catch hair before it goes down the pipe.
- To keep it effective, you should also clean the screen regularly.
Do Not Brush Hair Before Showering
- Brush your hair prior to showering so there is less in the tub.
When to Call a Professional
There are also occasions when no matter how hard you try, the clog lingers. Here’s when you should call a plumber.
Signs You Need Help
- Water continues to drain slowly following repeated DIY efforts.
- The clog recurs frequently.
Why Choose A Pro Plumber?
- They have tools to handle the really nasty clogs.
- They are capable of identifying bigger problems, like broken pipes or deeper clogs.
Conclusion
Clearing out a bathtub drain clogged with hair need not be an ordeal. Similarly, you should be able to fix most clogs yourself by understanding the problem and using the step-by-step methods outlined above. From manual plumbing removal to natural cleansers such as baking soda and vinegar, there’s something for every clog.
Remember, prevention is also a thing! Drain screens and regular maintenance can help you avoid the hassle of future clogs. But if the issue continues, there’s no shame in calling in a professional plumber to help.
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