Slow Draining Bathtub? Here's What You Can Do

A slow-draining bathtub can be frustrating, turning your relaxing soak or quick shower into a messy inconvenience. The issue is usually caused by a buildup of hair, soap scum, or other debris that partially blocks the drain. 

While it might seem like a minor problem, ignoring it can lead to a complete clog, making repairs more challenging. The good news is that there are straightforward ways to address this issue. In this guide, you will learn to speed up and unclog your bathtub drain.

How To Speed Up A Slow Bathtub Drain? 4 Tips!

If your bathtub is draining slower than usual, remove and clean the stopper, use boiling water, try baking soda and vinegar, and check pipe ventilation issues. These simple methods to resolve this common plumbing issue are detailed in the list below; check them out!

1. Most bathtub drains have a stopper or strainer that collects debris. Remove it by unscrewing or lifting it, and clean off any visible hair or grime.
2. Pour a pot of boiling water down the drain. It can dissolve soap scum and loosen minor blockages. Be cautious if you have PVC pipes, as excessive heat may cause damage.
3. Combine one cup of baking soda with one cup of vinegar. Pour the baking soda down the drain, followed by vinegar. Let it fizz for 15–30 minutes, then flush with hot water.
4. Sometimes, slow drainage occurs due to a clogged vent pipe. If none of the above methods work, it might be worth consulting a professional to inspect the plumbing system.

Regular bathtub drain cleaning can prevent it from getting slower with time. Plus, the following section breaks down other ways of unclogging the drain, even when it is not so slow.

How To Unclog A Bathtub Drain? The 4 Basic Steps

If your bathtub drain is clogged and you do not know how to fix it, start by plunging the drain, using a drain snake or hair remover tool, applying a chemical drain cleaner, disassembling the drain pipe, and calling a professional plumber if the previous steps do not work. 

1. Use a cup plunger to create suction over the drain. Fill the tub with enough water to cover the plunger's base, then plunge firmly several times to dislodge the clog.
2. Insert a drain snake or a long plastic hair removal tool into the drain. Twist or pull to capture and remove the blockage.
3. Chemical drain cleaners can be effective but should be used with caution as they can damage pipes if overused. Remember to always follow the instructions of the product carefully.
4. If the clog persists, you may need to access the P-trap underneath the tub. Place a bucket beneath the pipe, unscrew the trap, and remove any debris.

By taking these steps, you can end your slow-draining bathtub drama, restore drainage, and enjoy hassle-free showers and baths. If all else fails, a qualified plumber can use advanced tools to clear the toughest clogs; do not hesitate to call.