A clogged bathtub drain can be a real headache. It can cause water to pool in the tub, which is annoying and can lead to mold and mildew growth. You can use some simple tools and techniques to relatively easily clean a bathtub drain. This article will provide a step-by-step guide on how to clean bathtub drain effectively.
Causes of a Clogged Bathtub Drain
Before we dive into how to clean a bathtub drain, it’s essential to understand what causes it to clog. Some of the most common causes include:
- Hair: One of the most significant contributors to clogged bathtub drains is hair. When you shower or bath, hair can accumulate and get trapped in the drain.
- Soap scum: Soap scum is another culprit that can lead to a clogged bathtub drain. It can accumulate over time and cause the drain to slow or stop.
- Mineral buildup: Hard water can cause mineral buildup in the pipes, eventually leading to a clogged bathtub drain.
Tools and materials you’ll need for Cleaning Bathtub Drain
Before cleaning the bathtub drain, you must gather some tools and materials. Here are the things you’ll need:
- Plunger
- Drain snake or auger
- Baking soda
- Vinegar
- Hot water
- Rubber gloves
A Step by Step Guide on How to Clean Bathtub Drain
Now that you have your tools and materials let’s dive into how to clean a bathtub drain:
1. Remove the Drain Stopper
The first step in cleaning a bathtub drain is to remove the drain stopper. Depending on your stopper type, this may require some unscrewing or prying. Once you have removed the stopper, use rubber gloves to remove any visible hair or debris.
2. Use a Plunger
Next, use a plunger to try and dislodge any remaining hair or debris that may be stuck in the drain. Fill the bathtub with enough water to cover the plunger’s suction cup, then place the plunger over the drain and push it down and up several times. This will create suction and hopefully dislodge any remaining debris.
3. Use a Drain Snake or Auger
If the plunger doesn’t work, you may need to use a drain snake or auger to break up any clogs. Insert the snake or auger into the drain and turn the handle clockwise while pushing it further down. This will help break up clogs and allow the water to flow freely.
4. Use Baking Soda and Vinegar
Once you’ve removed any visible debris and dislodged any clogs, it’s time to use a natural cleaner to break down any remaining buildup. Mix 1/3 cup of baking soda with 1/3 cup vinegar and pour it down the drain. Wait 15 minutes, then pour hot water down the drain to flush everything out.
5. Replace the Drain Stopper
After you’ve cleaned the drain, replace the stopper and run some hot water to ensure that everything is flowing freely.
Relevant Topic: how to unclog a toilet full of poop and water
How to Clean Overflow Drain in Bathtub
Cleaning the overflow drain in a bathtub is an important step in maintaining good hygiene in your bathroom. Over time, hair, soap scum, and other debris can accumulate in the overflow drain, leading to clogs and unpleasant odors. Fortunately, cleaning the overflow drain is a simple process.
To start, remove the overflow cover by unscrewing it or prying it off with a flathead screwdriver. Use a long, thin brush or pipe cleaner to remove any debris from the overflow drain. You can also use baking soda and vinegar to clean the drain, just like you would for the main drain.
After cleaning the drain, replace the overflow cover and wipe down the surrounding area with a mild detergent to prevent any future buildup.
How to Unclog a Bathtub Drain Full of Hair
A clogged bathtub drain full of hair can be a frustrating and unpleasant problem. Here’s how to unclog it:
- Start by removing any visible hair from the drain.
- Pour a pot of boiling water down the drain to loosen any buildup.
- If the clog persists, use a plunger to create suction and dislodge the clog.
- If the plunger does not work, use a drain snake or auger to break up and remove the clog.
- To prevent future clogs, use a drain cover to catch hair and other debris before it enters the drain.
How to Clean Bathtub Drain With Baking Soda
Cleaning your bathtub drain with baking soda is an easy and effective way to remove buildup and prevent clogs. Here’s how to do it:
- Remove any visible hair or debris from the drain.
- Pour 1/2 cup of baking soda down the drain.
- Slowly pour 1/2 cup of vinegar down the drain and cover the drain with a stopper or cloth.
- Wait 10-15 minutes for the mixture to work its magic.
- Pour a pot of boiling water down the drain to remove any remaining debris.
How to Clean Bathtub Drain Stopper
Cleaning your bathtub drain stopper is important to maintain proper drainage and prevent clogs. Here’s how to clean it:
- Remove the stopper from the drain.
- Inspect the stopper for any hair or debris and remove it.
- Scrub the stopper with a toothbrush, hot water, and dish soap.
- Rinse the stopper with hot water to remove any remaining soap residue.
- Reinstall the stopper into the drain and test it to ensure proper drainage.
How to Unclog Bathtub Drain Without Removing Stopper
If you’re dealing with a clogged bathtub drain and can’t remove the stopper, there are still a few ways to try and clear the clog. Here are some methods to try:
- Use a plunger to create suction and dislodge the clog.
- Try using a drain snake or a wire coat hanger to reach the clog and pull it out.
- Use a mixture of baking soda and vinegar to dissolve the clog.
- Pour boiling water down the drain to flush out the clog.
If these methods don’t work, you may need to call a professional plumber to help clear the clog.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Will Dissolve Hair in a Drain?
Baking soda and vinegar can dissolve hair in a drain. Pour a cup of baking soda followed by vinegar down the drain, let it sit for 15-20 minutes, then flush it with hot water. Chemical drain cleaners can also dissolve hair but may damage pipes over time.
Can You Use Baking Soda and Vinegar to Clean The Bathtub Drain?
Yes, you can use baking soda and vinegar to clean a bathtub drain. Simply pour a cup of baking soda followed by a cup of vinegar down the drain, let it sit for 15-20 minutes, then flush it with hot water. This can help eliminate any buildup or odors in the drain.
Is it OK to Put Bleach Down the Bathtub Drain?
Putting bleach down the bathtub drain is generally safe but should be used cautiously. Mix one part bleach with ten parts water, pour the solution down the drain, let it sit for 15 minutes, then flush with hot water. Avoid mixing bleach with other cleaning products.
Can I Pour Boiling Water Down The Drain?
Boiling water can be poured down the drain to help remove clogs or eliminate odors, but it should be used cautiously. It is best only to use boiling water on metal or ceramic pipes, as plastic pipes can melt or become damaged.
Is it safe to Pour Vinegar Down the Drain?
Yes, it is safe to pour vinegar down the drain. Vinegar can be an effective and natural way to clean and freshen drains. It can help to dissolve buildup and eliminate odors. However, it should not be used on marble or other natural stone surfaces.
Are Vinegar and Baking Soda Bad for Pipes?
Vinegar and baking soda are generally good for pipes. They can be a natural and effective way to clean and freshen drains. However, excessive use or use in combination with other chemicals can potentially cause damage to pipes over time.
Can You Leave Baking Soda and Vinegar in the Drain Overnight?
Yes, you can leave baking soda and vinegar in the drain overnight to help dissolve buildup and eliminate odors. However, it is important to flush the drain with hot water in the morning to ensure that all of the solutions is removed and to prevent any potential damage to pipes.
Are You Supposed to Turn on the Water After Pouring Vinegar and Baking Soda Down the Drain?
Yes, turning on the hot water after pouring vinegar and baking soda down the drain is recommended. The hot water helps to activate the mixture and flush it through the pipes, allowing it to dissolve any buildup and eliminate odors.
How Often Should You Put Baking Soda and Vinegar Down Your Drains?
Using baking soda and vinegar to clean your drains once a month is recommended to help prevent clogs and keep your pipes clean and fresh. However, if you have particularly stubborn buildup or frequent clogs, you may need to use this method more frequently
Conclusion
Cleaning a bathtub drain may seem daunting, but it’s quite simple. By following the steps outlined in this article, you’ll be able to effectively clean your bathtub drain and prevent clogs from occurring in the future.
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