Hair, soap scum, and dirt can all work together to clog your bathroom drain. If not addressed immediately, you might end up taking a shower with standing water around your feet that becomes filthier over time. While some plumbing issues are more stubborn than others, the guide below offers some techniques you can use to try and resolve the problem.

How to Clear a Clog in Your Bathtub

1. Baking Soda & Vinegar

Baking soda and vinegar combine to form one of the most potent combos in home cleaning—especially for clogs. To use them most effectively, remove the stopper and pull hair and any other visible buildup from the drain. Then, pour hot water down it, followed by one-fourth of a cup of baking soda and one cup of white vinegar. Let the solution sit for 15 to 20 minutes and follow it with more hot water. Run your bathtub faucet to see if the clog has been fixed.

2. Plungers

For more substantial clogs, use your toilet plunger. First, fill the bathtub with a few inches of water. If you have standing water, skip this step. Next, pump the plunger on the tub drain the same as you would on the toilet. Check to see if debris is coming up, and then plunge again. If you aren’t making progress and the next step also doesn’t work, you’re facing a more severe clog. Left untreated, it could cause a pressure buildup in your pipes that might increase to the point they burst.

3. Use a Snake

Plumbing snakes can be helpful for difficult clogs that aren’t too far into the system. You can pick one up at any hardware store. Feed the snake head into the drain until you hit a blockage. Then, rotate the handle to break the clog apart. If you are uncomfortable using this tool or aren’t having much success, hire a plumber to handle the job.

Whether you need general repairs or emergency plumbing services, the team at Plumb-Rite Plumbing will assist. Based in Kalispell, MT, this residential and commercial plumbing contractor proudly serves the Flathead Valley, offering everything from repairs to new installations for your remodeling project or new construction. Visit their website for a full breakdown of their services or call (406) 257-7795 to speak with a representative.