How To Clear a Clogged Bathtub Drain

A slow-draining bathtub can be inconvenient for any homeowner. Fortunately, clearing a clogged bathtub drain is often a simple DIY task that can be accomplished with a few tools and techniques. This Old House plumbing and heating expert, Richard Trethewey, demonstrates how to tackle this bathroom issue in the video above.

Common Causes of Bathtub Drain Clogs

Before starting the unclogging process, it’s helpful to know what usually causes bathtub drains to become blocked. Identifying the source of the problem can help you prevent future clogs and choose the best clearing method.

Hair and Soap Scum

Over time, hair and soap accumulate in the drain pipe, gradually restricting water flow. In many homes, it’s nearly impossible to prevent hair and soap from going down the drain, but regular maintenance can help reduce buildup. A drain cover can catch these particles and prevent them from entering the drain.

Mineral Buildup

In areas with hard water, mineral deposits, usually calcium and magnesium, can accumulate inside the pipes, narrowing the passage for water and contributing to slow drainage. To address this issue, consider installing a water softener to minimize mineral deposits entering your plumbing system.

Foreign Objects

Small objects like jewelry, bath toys, or even excessive amounts of bath products can sometimes find their way into the drain, causing blockages. These items can get stuck in the P-trap or further down the pipe, leading to a complete or partial obstruction. Keeping small items away from the bathtub area can reduce the chances of this happening.

Tools and Materials Needed

You’ll need a few basic tools and materials to clear a clogged bathtub drain. To make this process run smoothly, you’ll need the following items:

• Adjustable wrench
• Baking soda
• Bucket
• Cleaning cloth
• Drain cover
• Drain/plumber’s snake
• Flashlight
• Gloves
• Pliers
• Screwdriver
• White vinegar

Steps To Clear a Clogged Bathtub Drain

In the video, Trethewey shows the steps below, using a drain snake to clear the clog. He explains the importance of proper technique to successfully dislodge blockages. Follow these steps to unclog your bathtub drain and restore proper water flow:

1. Remove the overflow plate: Use a screwdriver to unscrew the overflow plate from the end of the tub. If necessary, use pliers to carefully pull out the plate, linkage rods, and stopper from behind the tub. The overflow plate is often located just above the drain and is used to prevent overflow.
2. Insert the drain snake: Feed a drain snake down the overflow hole. Tighten the thumbscrew to lock the snake in place, then crank the handle and push the snake down the drain. Repeat this process two or three times, extending the snake further down the drain each time to break up and pull out any clogs lodged in the drain.
3. Test the drainage: Turn on the water and check if the tub drains better. If there’s improvement but the drain is still slow, proceed to the next step. A quick running water test can determine whether the blockage has cleared.
4. Snake with running water: Work the drain snake down the overflow hole again, this time allowing the water to run while you snake out the drain. This can help flush away any loosened debris and smaller particles that might be causing the blockage.
5. Inspect and adjust the stopper: Examine the stopper at the end of the linkage rod. If the stopper was sitting too low in the drainpipe, raise it by turning the rods to shorten the linkage and check for misalignment. Tighten the lock nut to secure the stopper in its new position.
6. Reassemble and test: Reinstall the stopper, linkage, and overflow plate. Run water to check for proper drainage and any leaks around the newly installed components. Proper reassembly will prevent future leaks and keep everything functioning correctly.

Alternative Methods for Clearing Clogs

If the drain snake method doesn’t fully resolve the issue, or if you prefer to try other approaches first, there are three different methods: a plunger, boiling water, or a baking soda and vinegar solution.

Plunger Method

A plunger can be a good tool for clearing minor clogs. Fill the tub with a few inches of water to create a suction for the plunger to work. Cover the overflow plate with a wet cloth to create a seal. Place the plunger over the drain and plunge for 30 seconds using consistent motions. Remove the plunger and check to see if the water drains, repeating until the clog is cleared.

Boiling Water Method

For minor clogs caused by soap scum or grease, boiling water can sometimes do the trick. After boiling a large pot of water, carefully pour it directly into the drain in stages. Allow each pour to work for a few minutes before adding more. Test the drain to see if the water drains faster, meaning the clog has been cleared.

Baking Soda and Vinegar Method

This natural cleaning method can be effective for minor clogs. Start by removing standing water from the tub to allow the solution to work more effectively. Pour one cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by one cup of white vinegar. These products react to create a foaming substance. Cover the drain with a stopper and wait about 15 minutes. Flush the drain with hot water to check if you need to repeat this process.

Preventing Future Clogs

Taking proactive steps can help prevent future bathtub drain clogs. Use a drain cover to catch hair and debris before they enter the drain, cleaning it regularly to remove accumulated hair and soap scum. Clean your drains monthly with a baking soda and vinegar solution, flushing them with hot water to help prevent clogs.

When To Call a Professional

While many bathtub clogs can be cleared with DIY methods, some situations may require professional assistance. If you’ve tried multiple methods, suspect a more serious issue, hear gurgling sounds, or notice poor odors from the drain, it’s best to hire a professional.

Also, if you have an older home with fragile plumbing systems or notice water backing up into other fixtures like your sink or toilet, you should consult a plumber to avoid more damage. Professional plumbers have specialized tools and expertise to safely handle more complex drain issues. If you’re uncomfortable with any part of the unclogging process, it’s best to hire a professional to fix your drain blockage and prevent future issues.