How to Unclog Bathtub Drain full of hair

Clogged bathtub drains are a common household nuisance, especially when they become filled with hair. I’ve faced this frustrating situation more times than I’d like to admit, but over the years, I’ve learned several effective methods to tackle the problem without resorting to harsh chemicals.

In this guide, I’ll share my personal experiences and insights on how to unclog bathtub drain full of hair naturally and effectively.

Method	Description
1. Remove the Drain Stopper	Unscrew or lift the stopper to clean out hair and debris.
2. Boiling Water	Pour boiling water down the drain to dissolve soap scum and loosen hair.
3. Baking Soda and Vinegar	Combine ½ cup of baking soda with 1 cup of vinegar, let it fizz, then flush with hot water.
4. Use a Plunger	Fill the tub with hot water, place a plunger over the drain, and pump vigorously.
5. Drain Claw/Snake	Insert a drain claw or plumber’s snake to grab and remove hair clogs.
6. Chemical Drain Cleaner	Use a commercial drain cleaner as a last resort, following safety instructions.
7. Natural Cleaners	Try enzyme-based cleaners or other natural solutions to break down hair safely.

7 Quick Ways to How to Unclog Bathtub Drain Full of Hair

1. Remove the Drain Stopper

The first step in unclogging your bathtub drain is to remove the drain stopper. This is often where hair accumulates.

• Identify Your Stopper Type: Stoppers come in various styles, pop-up, levered, or screw-in. Knowing how yours works is crucial.
• Remove the Stopper: Use a screwdriver or your fingers to lift it out. For pop-up stoppers, you may need to pull up on the lever or twist to release it.
• Clean Underneath: After removing the stopper, check for hair and debris. Use tweezers or your fingers to pull out any visible clogs.

2. Use Boiling Water

After clearing the stopper, pour boiling water down the drain. This method helps dissolve soap scum and loosen hair clogs.

• Boil Water: Heat water until it reaches a rolling boil.
• Pour Slowly: Carefully pour the boiling water directly into the drain.
• Repeat if Necessary: If the water doesn’t drain immediately, wait a few minutes and try again.

3. Baking Soda Method (Without Vinegar)

If you prefer not to use vinegar, baking soda alone can still be effective.

1. Boiling Water First: Start by pouring boiling water down the drain.
2. Add Baking Soda: Pour about ½ cup of baking soda into the drain.
3. Flush with Hot Water: After letting it sit for about 10-15 minutes, follow up with more boiling water.

This method can help break down any remaining debris without using vinegar.

4. Use a Plunger

Sometimes a good old-fashioned plunger is all you need.

1. Fill the Tub with Water: Add enough hot water to cover the plunger’s cup.
2. Position the Plunger: Place it over the drain opening.
3. Pump Vigorously: Push down and pull up repeatedly for several seconds until you feel resistance easing up.

5. Employing a Drain Claw or Snake

Using a drain claw or plumber’s snake can be highly effective if previous methods fail.

Using a Drain Claw:

1. Insert into Drain: Feed the claw into the drain until you reach the clog.
2. Twist and Pull: Rotate it while pulling back to snag hair and debris.

Using a Plumber’s Snake:

1. Feed into Drain: Insert the snake until you feel resistance.
2. Twist and Push: Gently twist while pushing further into the clog to break it apart.

6. Chemical Drain Cleaners (As a Last Resort)

If none of these methods work, consider using commercial chemical drain cleaners as a last resort.

• Read Instructions Carefully: Always follow product instructions for safety.
• Wear Gloves: Protect your skin from harsh chemicals.
• Flush After Use: After waiting as directed (usually 10-15 minutes), flush with hot water.

7. Dissolving Hair in Shower Drain

If you’re looking for ways specifically to dissolve hair in your shower drain without vinegar or harsh chemicals, consider these options:

• Enzyme-Based Cleaners: These are designed to break down organic materials like hair without damaging pipes.
• Hot Water Flushes: Regularly flushing your drains with hot water can help keep them clear by melting away residues.

How To Prevent Unclog Bathtub Drain full of hair

To avoid future clogs, consider these preventive strategies:

• Regular Cleaning: Clean your drain stopper monthly to prevent buildup.
• Install Drain Screens: These catch hair before it enters pipes.
• Brush Hair Before Showering: Reducing loose hair can significantly decrease clog potential.
• Monthly Maintenance with Baking Soda: Pouring baking soda down your drains every few months can help break down soap scum and hair buildup over time.

When to Call a Professional to Unclog Bathtub Drain

If you’ve tried all these methods and your bathtub remains clogged, it may be time to consult a professional plumber. Persistent clogs could indicate deeper issues within your plumbing system that require specialized tools and expertise.

Advantages of Professional Plumber

1. Expertise: Professional plumbers have extensive training and experience, enabling them to accurately diagnose and resolve complex plumbing issues quickly.
2. Advanced Tools: They possess specialized tools and technology that allow for efficient and effective repairs, reducing the risk of damage to your plumbing system.
3. Safety: Hiring a professional ensures safety by minimizing exposure to hazardous materials and reducing the risk of accidents during repairs.
4. Long-Term Solutions: Professionals provide lasting solutions that address the root cause of the problem, preventing future clogs and costly repairs.
5. Peace of Mind: With a warranty on their work, you can feel confident that the job will be done correctly, knowing that any recurring issues will be addressed without additional costs.

Read also: 8 Quick Tips For Luxury Home Renovations

How to Avoid Future Hair Clog Drain

1. Brush Your Hair Before Showering

Taking a few minutes to brush your hair before you shower can significantly reduce the amount of loose hair that ends up in the drain. This simple step helps remove stray strands, preventing them from washing down and accumulating over time.

2. Install a Hair Catcher

Using a drain hair trap is one of the most effective ways to prevent hair clogs. These devices fit over your bathtub or shower drain and catch hair before it can enter the pipes. Make sure to clean the trap regularly to maintain its effectiveness.

3. Flush Your Drains Regularly

Periodically flushing your drains with hot water helps dissolve soap scum and other residues that can contribute to clogs. You can also use baking soda and hot water every few months to keep your pipes flowing smoothly.

4. Avoid Oily Products

Be cautious with oily shampoos, conditioners, and body washes, as these can combine with hair and soap residue to create stubborn clogs. Opt for lighter products when possible.

5. Educate Household Members

Ensure that everyone in your household understands proper drain care. Simple practices like not disposing of hair or greasy substances down the drain can make a significant difference in preventing clogs

Read also: How To Clean Luxury Vinyl Plank

Conclusion

Unclogging a bathtub drain full of hair doesn’t have to be an overwhelming task. By following these steps, removing the stopper, using boiling water, applying baking soda alone, plunging, utilizing specialized tools like a drain claw or snake, and considering chemical cleaners, you can effectively clear most clogs on your own.

Remember that regular maintenance is key to preventing future issues. By incorporating these practices into your routine, you can enjoy hassle-free bathing experiences without worrying about clogged drains again! If all else fails, don’t hesitate to call in professionals who have the experience and tools necessary to resolve stubborn clogs efficiently.

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