How To Unclog A Bathtub Drain Full Of Hair

How to Unclog a Bathtub Drain Full of Hair: Simple and Effective Methods

A clogged bathtub drain can be a frustrating and unpleasant experience. When hair, soap scum, and dirt accumulate in the drain, it can cause water to drain slowly or even back up into the bathtub. If you find yourself dealing with a clogged bathtub drain full of hair, don't worry; there are several simple and effective methods you can try to unclog it.

1. Boiling Water and Dish Soap:

This method is a hot and effective way to dissolve hair and grease buildup in the drain. Steps:

Boil Water: Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
Pour Boiling Water: Slowly pour the boiling water down the drain. Be careful not to splash yourself or damage the bathtub.
Add Dish Soap: After pouring the boiling water, immediately pour a cup of dish soap down the drain.
Cover the Drain: Use a drain cover or a wet cloth to cover the drain opening.
Let it Sit: Allow the boiling water and dish soap solution to sit in the drain for about 15 minutes.
Flush with Cold Water: After 15 minutes, pour a pot of cold water down the drain to flush out the dissolved hair and soap scum.

2. Baking Soda and Vinegar:

This is a natural and eco-friendly method that uses the power of baking soda and vinegar to break down hair and grime. Steps:

Pour Baking Soda: Pour half a cup of baking soda down the drain.
Add Vinegar: Slowly pour a cup of vinegar down the drain. Be careful as the combination of baking soda and vinegar can cause a fizzing reaction.
Cover the Drain: Use a drain cover or a wet cloth to cover the drain opening.
Let it Sit: Allow the baking soda and vinegar solution to sit in the drain for about 30 minutes.
Flush with Boiling Water: After 30 minutes, pour a pot of boiling water down the drain to flush out the dissolved hair and grime.

3. Hair Removal Tool:

If the above methods don't work, you can use a hair removal tool specifically designed to remove hair from drains. Steps:

Insert the Tool: Insert the hair removal tool into the drain opening.
Turn the Tool: Slowly turn the tool to catch and remove hair from the drain.
Pull Out the Tool: Once you feel resistance, gently pull the tool out of the drain, taking the hair with it.
Repeat: Repeat this process until you've removed as much hair as possible from the drain.

4. Professional Drain Cleaning:

If none of the DIY methods work or if the clog is severe, it may be time to call a professional drain cleaner. Steps:

Contact a Plumber: Contact a reputable plumbing company and explain the situation.
Schedule an Appointment: Schedule an appointment for the plumber to come and assess the clog.
Professional Cleaning: The plumber will use specialized tools and techniques to thoroughly clean the drain and remove the clog.

5. Preventive Measures:

To prevent future bathtub drain clogs, follow these preventive measures:

Use a Drain Strainer: Install a drain strainer in the bathtub drain to catch hair and debris before they enter the drain.
Clean the Drain Regularly: Regularly clean the bathtub drain using one of the methods mentioned above to prevent buildup.
Avoid Flushing Harsh Chemicals: Avoid flushing harsh chemicals or cleaning products down the drain, as they can damage the pipes.
Maintain Water Flow: Keep a steady flow of water down the drain while using the bathtub to help flush away hair and debris.

By following these methods and preventive measures, you can effectively unclog a bathtub drain full of hair and keep it functioning properly.