After enjoying a refreshing shower in the bathtub and emerging happily, you later notice that the tub is still filled with one to three inches of water. This could be due to soap scum and hair clogs building up beneath the stopper, causing water blockages. Additionally, foreign objects in the drain may be causing clogs due to damage. 

The main question here is: How can you easily unclog a bathtub? One effective method is to use a wire and dishwashing soap to eliminate soap scum, hair clumps, and stubborn blockages from the drain. Alternatively, utilizing a drain auger or plunger can provide optimal results for clearing clogs. Read more

How To Fix A Clogged Bathtub In Easy Ways?

It can be quite annoying when the bathtub drains slowly and water starts to accumulate, disrupting your daily routine and creating unpleasant odors. Fortunately, there are several effective methods to quickly clear bathtub clogs. 

Prior to unclogging the drain, carefully remove the stopper by twisting it until it comes off, then unscrew the cap of the drain. Once you’ve taken out the stopper and strainer, you’re ready to tackle the clog.

Use a wire or hanger:

One effective method for clearing a bathtub clog caused by hair and soap is to utilize a drain clog-grabber tool. This specialized tool features a twisted head that simplifies the process of extracting debris from the drain. In the absence of a clog-grabber, an alternative approach involves using a wire or coat hanger. 

By slightly bending one end of the hanger, you can insert it into the bathtub drain and manipulate it in various directions to dislodge the obstruction. Repeat this technique until you have successfully removed the majority of hair clumps and soap residue from the drain.

Use boiling water:

When hair clumps and soap scum linger in the bathtub drain for an extended period, they harden. This makes it challenging to dislodge them using a hanger or wire. To address this issue, pouring boiling water down the drain can help break down the debris. 

The use of a hanger to clear the clogs will be more effective with the assistance of boiling water. Exercise caution when pouring the water to avoid scalding your hands or fingers.

Use vinegar and baking soda:

Sometimes, even boiling water may not be effective in clearing bathtub clogs. In these instances, a mixture of vinegar and baking soda can be used to eliminate soap scum and hair buildup from the drain naturally, without the need for chemical or commercial products. To begin, pour one cup of baking soda down the drain and allow it to sit for 10 minutes. 

Next, add one cup of vinegar and wait for a few minutes to observe the fizzing reaction that will help dislodge minor clogs. The addition of boiling water can further enhance the unclogging process. However, this method may not be as effective if there is a significant blockage or damage within the drain pipes.

Alternatively, dishwashing liquid can also be employed to tackle stubborn clogs. Simply pour a few cups of dishwashing liquid into the drain followed by boiling water to help break down debris and facilitate manual removal. This approach offers an effective way to clear bathtub drains without resorting to harsh chemicals found in commercial cleaners that could potentially harm plastic or copper drainpipes.

It is important to avoid using strong chemical cleaners for the safety and longevity of your bathtub and the entire plumbing system.

Use plunger:

To clear a clogged bathtub drain, use the plunger to dislodge any blockages. Position the plunger’s top flat over the drain hole to create a tight seal. Fill the tub with three to four inches of water and hold the plunger firmly in place for a few moments. 

Release it, allowing water to rush through the drain and push out any obstructions. Repeat this plunging process as needed until the drain is unclogged. Want to learn: How to fix a leaky faucet, check this link

Use Drain Auger:

A drain auger is a versatile tool designed to effectively clear stubborn clogs deep within the bathtub drain. Its long, spinning reach allows it to access blockages that cannot be reached with a regular wire. Simply insert the auger into the drain until you snag the debris, then maneuver it in various directions to dislodge and extract soap scum and hair clumps. 

The flexible wire rotates smoothly, effortlessly grabbing hold of debris for easy removal. With this tool, you can easily reach depths of two to three feet inside the bathtub drain, ensuring successful unclogging every time.

Conclusion

Clearing a bathtub drain is a straightforward task that can be accomplished using various methods such as plunging, using a drain auger, pouring boiling water, or utilizing a mixture of baking soda and vinegar. 

However, for more severe clogs like broken pipes obstructing the drain, it is advisable to seek assistance from a professional plumber. They will conduct a video inspection of the blocked drain and recommend the most effective solutions for removing the damaged pipes. Additionally, they will ensure that the unclogging process is carried out safely and with proper precautions.