To unclog a bathtub drain, remove the stopper and pull out hair with a plastic drain-cleaning strip or bent wire, then plunge the drain (covering the overflow), or use a small drain snake. For slow drains, flush it with very hot tap water and a baking soda and vinegar treatment. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners in standing water, and call a plumber if several drains are slow or water backs up elsewhere.
Why Bathtub Drains Clog
- Hair—the number one cause
- Soap scum, which binds hair into a tight mat
- Hard water mineral buildup
- Small objects like caps or toys
Method 1: Remove the Stopper and Clean It
- Identify your stopper: lift-and-turn, push-pull, and toe-touch types usually unscrew; trip-lever stoppers are removed by unscrewing the overflow plate.
- Pull it out and clean off hair and gunk.
- Shine a flashlight into the drain and remove any visible hair with gloves or needle-nose pliers.
Method 2: Use a Plastic Drain Snake (Zip Tool)
- Push the barbed strip down the drain as far as it goes.
- Twist and pull it back slowly—hair will cling to the barbs.
- Repeat until it comes out clean, then flush with hot water.
Method 3: Plunge the Drain
- Cover the overflow opening with a wet rag or duct tape so the pressure goes to the clog.
- Add enough water to cover the plunger cup.
- Plunge firmly 10–15 times, then pull up quickly.
- Repeat a few times and test the drain.
Method 4: Baking Soda and Vinegar
- Remove standing water if possible.
- Pour ½ cup baking soda into the drain, then 1 cup white vinegar.
- Cover the drain and wait 15–30 minutes.
- Flush with very hot tap water.
This works best on slow drains and soap buildup, not on solid hair clogs.
Method 5: Use a Hand Auger (Drum Snake)
Feed the cable through the overflow opening or the drain, crank it until you feel resistance, turn to grab the clog, then pull it out. This reaches clogs deeper in the trap.
Method 6: Enzyme Drain Cleaner
Enzyme or bacterial cleaners break down hair and organic matter slowly—great for maintenance and overnight treatments, and gentler on pipes than caustic cleaners.
Mechanical Tools vs Chemical Cleaners
Pros
- Drain strips, plungers and snakes physically remove hair
- Cheap, reusable and pipe-safe
- Work immediately
Cons
- Chemical cleaners often fail on hair mats
- They can harm pipes, septic systems and skin
- Leftover chemicals make later plumbing work hazardous
When to Call a Plumber
- Several drains are slow at once
- Water backs up into the tub when you flush the toilet
- You smell sewage
- The clog returns quickly after clearing
Prevent Bathtub Clogs
- Use a hair catcher and empty it after each bath.
- Brush hair before bathing.
- Flush the drain with hot water weekly.
- Use an enzyme cleaner monthly. See more in our shower clog prevention guide.
