Supplies You'll Need For Unclogging Tubs With Handheld Augers? Read Also: How To Unclog A Slow Draining Toilet? The more stubborn and deep down clogs will require a 1/4 inch drain snake however.

These flexible plastic rods are equipped with teeth on either side which will hook and pull the hair from your tub drain and only need to be inserted and removed to operate. Hair removing tools can be used to clear clogs from 1 to 2 feet of drain.

The metal drain snake cable can also damage some tub finishes but you can prevent this by placing down a towel or drop cloth over the clogged drain. This can be a very messy process given that you're often cleaning out months or maybe even years worth of hair, soap scum and other blockages, so a good pair of rubber gloves will keep your hands clean while working. If you are able to easily move the pipe in any direction, its a good idea to call in a plumber and get some expert advice. This vertical pipe can sometimes become loosened over time or during the disassembly process and could cause leaks if not addressed. Once you have removed your overflow cover and removed any stopper mechanism, it's a good time to check the pipe located behind the overflow cover. While this overflow drain is meant to prevent a tub left running from overflowing, it is actually the easiest way to access the tub drain that goes from your bathtub to the main sewer line of your bathroom. Access Is Through Overflow DrainĪ bathtub drain is often tied into a stopper system that leads up to an overflow drain directly below the faucet. A simple plunger may also be able to clear the clog without all of the work of using a drain snake.

What You Need To Know About Clearing Bathtub Clogs With A Snake?Ī clog in a bathtub drain is usually made up of hair and soap scum but there may also be mineral deposits from hard water or debris such as dirt, sand and even skin.īefore purchasing a handheld drain auger, it may be worth your time to try a chemical drain opener, which can be poured directly into the drain without disassembling any parts of the bathtub.

Bathtub drain clogged