When water sits in your tub for minutes after a shower or won’t drain at all, you likely have a clog. These slow-draining bathtub issues are more than just annoying, they’re often early signs of deeper plumbing problems. Most bathtub blockages come from hair, soap scum, and buildup collecting over time inside your drain. Thankfully, there are several simple, safe, and affordable ways to clear the clog before it turns into a plumbing emergency.
One method we’ve found both safe and surprisingly effective is using a simple mix of baking soda and vinegar. It’s not only budget-friendly but also great for keeping your pipes clean and fresh-smelling over time.
Whether you want a quick fix or a deeper solution, this article walks you through everything from boiling water to plumbing snakes. so you can restore your bathtub’s flow and avoid future headaches. Let’s explore how to clear your clogged bathtub drain the right way.
What Causes Bathtub Drains to Clog?
Bathtub clogs happen when everyday materials collect and block the drain opening or pipe beneath it. The most common causes include:
- Hair: Long or short, hair wraps around the drain stopper or pipe joints.
- Soap scum: Soap mixes with hard water minerals and creates thick buildup.
- Body oils and dirt: These cling to the sides of pipes over time.
- Foreign objects: Small items like shampoo caps, razor covers, or even toys can get lodged inside.
These substances often stick together, building layers that narrow the drain and slow water flow until it fully backs up.
Early Signs Your Bathtub Drain Is Clogged
Catching a clog early can save you time and money. Look out for these red flags:
- Water drains more slowly than usual
- Gurgling or bubbling noises after draining
- Foul odors coming from the tub drain
- Water is backing up into the tub during showers
- The drain stopper isn’t functioning correctly
Even a slight slowdown in draining water is usually your first warning that something’s beginning to block the pipes.
Is It Safe to Use Drain Cleaners?
Chemical drain cleaners can break down buildup fast, but they come with risks:
- Pipe damage: The chemicals are corrosive and can eat away at older pipes.
- Health risks: Fumes from harsh cleaners can irritate your eyes, lungs, and skin.
- Environmental impact: Many products are toxic to waterways if washed into storm drains.
Natural methods like baking soda and vinegar are much safer and just as effective in many cases, especially for minor or early clogs.
Step 1: Check for Hair and Surface Debris
Start with the easiest fix. Remove the drain cover and check for:
- Hair clumps
- Soap scum stuck to the stopper
- Small visible items
Use a flashlight if needed. Most bathtub drains have a small crossbar under the stopper—this is where hair loves to wrap around.
Use tweezers, needle-nose pliers, or a small hook to gently pull out any gunk. This alone might fix your problem if the clog is close to the surface.
Pro tip: Wear rubber gloves. The gunk might smell bad or be slimy.
Step 2: Pour Boiling Water Down the Drain
If the clog is made of soap, grease, or hair products, boiling water can melt and flush it through. Here’s how:
- Boil a full kettle or large pot of water.
- Carefully pour it down the drain in two to three slow stages.
- Wait a few minutes between each pour.
This method works best when there’s no standing water. It’s safe, inexpensive, and helps dislodge soft buildup deeper in the pipe.
Step 3: Try the Baking Soda and Vinegar Method
This natural combo is our favorite method because it cleans, deodorizes, and clears mild clogs without damaging pipes.
Instructions:
- Pour ½ cup of baking soda into the drain.
- Follow with 1 cup of white vinegar.
- Let the fizzy reaction work for 15–30 minutes.
- Flush with a full kettle of boiling water.
Repeat this process once a month to keep your pipes fresh and prevent buildup. It’s a great habit for anyone who deals with regular bathtub clogs.
Step 4: Use a Plunger Correctly
Yes, you can use a plunger on a bathtub drain—but technique matters.
- Remove the overflow plate (the metal cover under the faucet) and stuff a damp cloth into the overflow hole to block air.
- Fill the tub with just enough water to cover the plunger cup.
- Place the plunger over the drain and push up and down with firm, steady pressure.
- Do this for about 30 seconds, then check if the water drains faster.
This helps if the clog is sealed by pressure and located within the first few feet of pipe.
Step 5: Insert a Plastic Hair Snake or Zip-It Tool
When the plunger doesn’t work, move to a tool that grabs hair and buildup. These long plastic sticks with barbs are made specifically for bathtubs and are cheap at hardware stores.
How to use:
- Insert the tool straight down into the drain.
- Push as far as it goes and wiggle it slightly.
- Pull it out slowly—prepare for some nasty gunk.
- Dispose of debris and rinse with boiling water.
This is often more effective than plunging, especially if the clog is from hair buildup.
Step 6: Go Deeper with a Plumber’s Snake
For more stubborn clogs, use a handheld plumber’s snake (also called a drain auger). It’s a coiled metal wire that extends deep into pipes.
Steps:
- Insert the snake into the drain or overflow opening.
- Feed it slowly until you feel resistance.
- Rotate the handle to latch onto the clog.
- Pull out the snake and rinse the drain.
Be gentle—using too much force could damage the pipes or scratch your tub.
Step 7: When You Should Call a Professional
If you’ve tried multiple methods and water still drains slowly—or not at all—it’s time to contact a licensed plumber. You might be facing:
- A clog deeper in the main sewer line
- A tree root intrusion
- Pipe damage or corrosion
Plumbers have specialized tools like hydro jetting machines and drain cameras to find and fix the issue safely and efficiently.
How to Prevent Bathtub Clogs in the Future
Once you’ve cleared the clog, take these simple steps to keep your drain running smoothly:
- Use a drain cover: These catch hair before it goes down.
- Flush with hot water weekly: Prevents buildup from soap and oils.
- Limit products: Heavy conditioners and oily soaps leave residue.
- Clean the stopper monthly: Hair collects underneath, even if it’s not visible.
- Use baking soda and vinegar monthly: Keeps the drain fresh and flowing.
By creating a regular bathtub maintenance routine, you’ll reduce clogs and extend the life of your plumbing.
