A slow bathtub drain can be a real headache, turning a soothing shower into a frustrating puddle marathon. While it’s tempting to grab the closest bottle of drain cleaner, it’s better (and safer for your pipes) to roll up your sleeves and tackle the problem yourself. Don’t worry—it’s easier than you might think, and we’ve got your back with this step-by-step guide.

Most slow bathtub drains are caused by a combination of hair, soap scum, and other small debris building up over time. These clogs can block water flow, leaving you with a stubborn drain that seems to take forever to clear.

Luckily, with just a few basic tools and know-how, you’ll be able to follow the 6 steps below to get your tub draining smoothly again!

Common Offenders in Slow Bathtub Drains

Before we jump into how to fix your drains, it’s helpful to know what causes the issue.

Most often, these three culprits are to blame for your slow or sluggish drains:

  • Hair: Hair can easily slip into the drain and get caught in the stopper or P-trap, forming a net-like blockage over time.
  • Soap Scum: Soap residue combines with body oils, creating a sticky, gunky buildup that narrows your drainpipe.
  • Debris: Bits of toothpaste, dirt, or small bath product particles can also sneak into the drain assembly, contributing to clogs.

Understanding what’s happening inside your drain is the first step toward a successful fix.

6 Simple Steps to Fix a Slow Bathtub Drain

You don’t need to be a plumbing expert to restore your drain’s flow.

Follow these steps for a do-it-yourself solution:

1. Assess the Drain’s Current State

Start by timing how long it takes for your tub to drain completely. This will help you gauge the severity of the clog and measure improvements after you’ve cleared the blockage.

Here’s how:

  1. Fill a bucket with water.
  2. Pour the water into your tub and start the timer.
  3. Note the time it takes for the water to drain out.

This simple test gives you a baseline to evaluate your improvement after you clean the drain.

2. Remove the Drain Stopper

Most bathtub clogs start at or just below the drain stopper.

Here’s how to remove it:

  • Unscrew the stopper’s knob (you may need pliers for help if it’s stuck).
  • Once the knob is off, use a flathead screwdriver to unscrew and lift out the drain stopper assembly.

With the stopper removed, you’ll have access to the top of the drain where clogs often accumulate.

3. Clear Out Visible Debris

Check the drain opening for any obvious blockages, such as hair or gunk, and remove them by hand or with a small tool like tweezers. It’s not the most fun part of the process, but even clearing surface debris can significantly improve drainage.

4. Create or Buy a Fishing Tool

A wire hanger makes a great DIY “fishing” tool that you can use to “fish” down your drain for hair clogs or debris.

Here are some great options:

  • Straighten the hanger and bend one end into a small hook.
  • Alternatively, you can pick up a professional drain-clearing tool at your local hardware store.

These tools are excellent for pulling out hair clogs or debris stuck deeper in the drainpipe.

5. Fishing for Clogs

Using your DIY or store-bought tool, carefully reach into the drain:

  • Hook and pull out clumps of hair, soap scum, or other debris.
  • Be gentle to avoid damaging the pipe or drain assembly.
  • Expect to pull up gunk—it may surprise you how much was hiding in there!

Repeat this process until your fishing tool comes out clean.

bumble-Drainage-timing-test

6. Test the Drain

It’s time to see how well your efforts have worked:

  • Repeat the timed water test from Step 1.
  • Compare the new drainage time with the original. (Faster drainage = success!)

If water now flows freely, you’ve successfully fixed your slow drain!

What to Do if the Drain is Still Slow

If your bathtub still drains slowly after completing these steps, the clog may be deeper in the plumbing system, or there could be a more serious issue. Here are some additional methods to try:

  • Use a Drain Snake: A drain snake can reach deeper blockages than your DIY tool.
  • Eco-Friendly Solutions: Pour a mixture of baking soda and vinegar down the drain, followed by hot water to dissolve minor clogs.
  • Call a Pro: If none of the above works, the clog may be farther down the plumbing system. That’s where a licensed plumber like Bumble Breeze can help!

Our licensed plumbers have the tools and expertise to locate and fix even the trickiest clogs. Just give us a buzz, and we’ll have your bathtub back to normal quickly.

bumble-Homemade-drain-tool

Keep Your Drains Running Smoothly

Once your drain is fixed, take these preventative steps to keep it that way:

  • Install a Drain Cover: A drain cover catches hair and debris before it enters the drain.
  • Rinse Regularly: Flush your drain weekly with hot water to prevent soap scum buildup.
  • Routine Maintenance: Schedule regular plumbing check-ups, especially if you notice recurring clogs.

Need Help? Call Bumble Breeze!

A slow bathtub drain doesn’t have to ruin your day. With the steps outlined here, even the most stubborn clogs can often be tackled at home. But if the problem persists—or you’d rather leave it to the professionals—Bumble Breeze is here to help. From plumbing services to HVAC care, we’ve got you covered.

Give us a call or schedule an appointment online today. Your comfort and convenience are our priority!

company icon