A clogged bathtub drain is frustrating, especially when you take shower in the tub. You may want to call a plumber to unclog the bathtub but we are here to help you out with this problem without taking help from any plumber.
The easiest way to unclog a bathtub drain with standing water is to use a plunger. Put the plunger over the drain and push and pull the plunger up and down.
Once you know how to unclog a bathtub drain with standing water, you can get rid of this problem by yourself and you will not need anyone’s help. Several tricks you can use to unclog your bathtub on your own using products you can find at home or in the store.
Let’s learn!
How To Unclog A Bathtub Drain With Standing Water | 2 Effective Methods
Method 1: Unclog A Bathtub Drain With A Drain Claw
You can easily unclog the drain with a drain claw. It is a flexible wire with an auger on one end. The auger comes with multiple interlocking hooks that allow the claw to grab substances in the pipes. The drain claw easily fits into the drain through traps and curves. To unclog the drain with a drain claw you need to follow the steps successfully.
Step 1: Take The Strainer Out
The strainer can catch large substances to prevent clogs, but some items still find a way past it. Soap and hair can cause trouble that can be found underneath the strainer. Usually, hair sticks underneath the strainer and creates a clog.
To remove the hair and other ingredients that are stuck underneath the strainer, you need to loosen the strainer first. Get an appropriate screwdriver and turn it counterclockwise to remove it. Otherwise, you can go ahead and lift the strainer out.
Step 2: Take The Stopper Out
The stopper is usually used instead of or right underneath the strainer. It is a little further into the drain. The stopper is easy to remove because you do not need to remove any screws. Sometimes removing screws can make it difficult, as you need to get the right size of screwdriver. Therefore, removing the stopper is simple because there are no screws to open. All you need to do is twist and lift.
Gunk and grime often accumulate around the stopper and strainer; this will cause a clog over time. TO clean the clog, you need to clean both parts using a sponge, cloth, or small brush. Use the brush or something else and clean the stopper accurately.
Step 3: Insert The Drain Claw
Now it is time to insert the drain claw. The claw can reach far into the drain. When you hit the curved drain trap, keep pushing the claw through to get a thorough clean.
The tiny interlocking hooks will grab anything that might be clogging the drain when you pull the claw out. It would help if you cleaned the hooks thoroughly. If you want to use it again, you need to keep the hooks clean. Without cleaning the hooks, you cannot reuse them.
Step 4: Test The Drain
When you pull out the gunk from the drain, you need to test the drain. You need to test the drain if it is clear or not and check if any gunk is left. Open the faucet and check if the water runs down the drain smoothly. If you notice further clogging signs, you need to try the process again or use another process that can be helpful to remove the clog.
After you are done with the process, place the stopper back into the drain by pushing and twisting it into place. After that, insert the strainer in the place attached to the screws. Make sure you fix the screws perfectly.
Method 2: Unclog A Bathtub Drain Using Chemicals
Chemical cleaners are available in supply stores and online. Chemicals are highly effective for unclogging a drain clog.
One thing you need to keep in mind is that they can also cause pungent fumes so you must keep the room ventilated. When you are choosing a product, make sure that it is safe for the type of plumbing you have. Let’s learn the process of using chemicals to remove drain clogs!
Step 1: Follow The Instructions
Chemical cleaners come with an instruction manual so make sure that you are following the given instructions carefully. Some cleaners will require you to wear protective gear, such as goggles and gloves.
Others require only a small amount of product, while some might need a little more to be effective. After reading the entire instructions, you should start the task. Do not miss any of the instructions other than that it could be harmful to you and your drain.
Step 2: Removing Standing Water
You need to remove any standing water. If you see any bathtub drain given in mid-shower, empty it manually. You need to get out a bucket and a large cup and then scoop the water out until the tub is empty.
Step 3: Using The Chemicals
Before using the chemicals, make sure that you have protected yourself with gloves and goggles, and then pour the required amount of product in and around the drain. Be careful not to spill the product as you pour and by any chance, if you spill any of the product, clean it immediately to avoid stains or damage.
After pouring the chemicals, wait for a moment and see the magic. Some will require 15 to 30 minutes while others need longer. Remember to follow the product’s instructions here for the greatest efficiency. You can set a timer to easily remember the time.
Step 4: Flush With Cold Water
After the time is up, flush the bath and drain with cool water. Check the drain when the water leaves the tub and goes into the drain. If you see the clog remaining, there might be a more significant issue.
Final Verdict
Getting clogged in a bathtub is disturbing and for this reason, you need to solve the problem immediately. Only you can solve it if you know how to unclog a bathtub drain. If you can follow one of the methods perfectly then you will be able to get a good result.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What Is The Best Product To Use To Unclog A Bathtub Drain?
As different products work better on different clogs. In general, a plunger is the best tool to start with, as it can often dislodge the clog without needing any special products. If a plunger doesn’t work, a pipe cleaner or caustic drain opener might be necessary.
How Do You Unclog A Bathtub Drain In 5 Minutes?
Remove the stopper and use a plunger to clear the drain.
To unclog a bathtub drain in 5 minutes, you will need a plunger and baking soda.
- Pour baking soda down the drain.
- Add enough water to cover the baking soda.
- Place the plunger over the drain.
- Push and pull the plunger up and down.
- The drain will be unclogged in 5 minutes.
Why Is My Bath Not Draining?
There are many reasons why a bathtub may not drain properly. The most common reasons are a clogged drain pipe or a clogged drain stopper.
One common reason is a clog in the drain. Hair, dirt, and other debris can build up in the drain over time and cause a clog. Another common reason is a blocked or broken pipe. If the clog is not cleared, the water will back up and overflow.
To check for a clog, try to clear it with a plunger. If that does not work, you may need to use a snake to clear the clog. If the problem is a blocked or broken pipe, you will need to call a plumber to fix it.
What Is The Easiest Way To Unclog A Bathtub?
The easiest way to unclog a bathtub is to use a plunger.
How Do You Unclog A Bathtub With Standing Water Naturally?
One way to try to unclog a bathtub with standing water is to pour a pot of boiling water down the drain.
How Do You Unclog A Bathtub Drain Without A Snake?
You can try using a plunger or a wire hanger.
What Home Remedy Can I Use To Unclog My Bathtub?
A plunger is an easy and affordable way to unclog your bathtub. You can also pour a pot of boiling water down the drain to help dissolve the clog.
How To Unclog A Bathtub Drain Home Remedies?
There are many ways that you can unclog a bathtub drain at home. One method is to use a plunger. Another is to use a chemical drain cleaner. You can also use a wire hanger.
How To Unclog A Bathtub Drain With Salt?
mix 1/2 cup of salt with 1/2 gallon of hot water and pour it down the clogged drain.
How To Unclog A Bathtub Drain With Standing Water?
If the clog is close to the drain, use a plunger. If the plunger doesn’t work, try using a plumbing snake.
How To Unclog A Bathtub Drain Full Of Water?
Unclogging a bathtub drain full of water can be a bit tricky. The simplest approach is to use a plunger. If the plunger doesn’t work, you can try using a chemical drain cleaner or a plunger with an auger.
How To Unclog A Bathtub Drain Using Baking Soda And Vinegar?
If your bathtub drains slowly or clogs periodically, a clog in the drainpipe may be the culprit. This is a simple clog that can be cleared with baking soda and vinegar.
1) Pour 1/2 cup baking soda down the drain.
2) Add 1 cup vinegar. The baking soda and vinegar will react to create a fizzy foam.
3) Wait 30 minutes.
4) Pour a pot of boiling water down the drain.
5) Repeat if needed.
How To Unclog Bathtub Drain Full Of Hair?
If you are using a plunger and it is not unclogging the drain, try using a metal hanger. Place the hanger into the drain and try to snag the hair. If you can get ahold of the hair, pull it out.