How to Fix Drain in Bathtub: A DIY Guide

Name: How to Replace a Bathtub Drain 🛁
Uploaded: 2026-01-27
Duration: 5 min 41 s
Description: Learn how to fix drain in bathtub with a clear, step-by-step method. Identify clogs, gather tools, safely remove the stopper, clear hair and buildup, and test the flow. Pro tips from Drain Guide to prevent future blockages.

Learn how to fix drain in bathtub with a clear, step-by-step method. Identify clogs, gather tools, safely remove the stopper, clear hair and buildup, and test the flow. Pro tips from Drain Guide to prevent future blockages.

Drain Guide Team

January 27, 2026·6 min read

Drain Drain Snake Drain Stopper Hair in Drain

Bath Drain Fix - Drain Guide — Photo by StockSnapvia Pixabay

Quick AnswerSteps

You will learn how to fix drain in bathtub by identifying the blockage, gathering the right tools, safely removing the stopper, clearing hair and soap scum, and testing for proper flow. The guide also covers simple prevention to keep drains clear. Follow proven, DIY-friendly steps from Drain Guide to restore drainage without costly repairs.

Why bathtub drains clog and how to prevent future buildup

Bathtub drains clog primarily from hair, soap scum, and mineral deposits that accumulate behind the stopper and in the trap. According to Drain Guide, routine maintenance — like using a drain screen, cleaning the overflow plate, and flushing with hot water — dramatically reduces blockages. The most common early warning is a slow drain that gurgles or backs up when you drain a bath. Preventive habits, such as brushing hair into a trash can instead of the tub, avoiding thick soaps, and running hot water down the drain after showers, keep the system healthier. If you notice frequent slowdowns, it’s worth inspecting the stopper, the overflow opening, and the P-trap for hair threads and soap residues. A clear understanding of where debris accumulates helps you target the right fix without tearing apart the entire assembly. The aim of this section is to help you recognize the signs, stop the problem before it escalates, and plan a safe DIY approach. Drain Guide’s practical approach is built on decades of home-drain troubleshooting experience.

Safety first: assess water health and prepare workspace

Before you dive into a repair, ensure safety and organization. Put on rubber gloves and protect the surrounding area with old towels to catch splashes. Check for any signs of leaks or corrosion around the drain and overflow. Clear a dry, well-lit workspace and remove any items from the tub that could get in the way. If the tub shares an overflow drain with a vanity or other fixtures, paper-tape off the area to minimize slips and keep drain components accessible. Drain health hinges on a calm, methodical setup; rushing can cause minor injuries or accidental damage. Drain Guide recommends taking a moment to determine whether you are dealing with a simple hair clog or a deeper trap issue. This awareness shapes the tools and steps you’ll use, reducing risk and speeding up the fix.

Quick diagnostics: hair, soap scum, mineral deposits

Clogs often start with hair tangled around the stopper or in the trap, coupled with soap scum that binds particles together. Look for slow drainage when a bath is drained or a slight standing ring around the tub. If you notice a strong odor after a while, there could be trapped organic material in the trap. Hair is the most common culprit in bathtubs, but mineral buildup from hard water can contribute as well. A flashlight can help you inspect inside the overflow and around the stopper to see hair threads or deposits. This diagnostic step isn’t just about removing debris; it guides you toward the most effective method—manual removal for simple clogs or a snake for tougher ones. The goal is to determine the blockage’s location to plan the next action safely and efficiently.

How to remove the stopper and access the trap safely

Start by removing the bathtub stopper to access the drain. Depending on the design, you may need to twist, pry, or unscrew a cap on the overflow plate. Use a flathead screwdriver or pliers if needed, but avoid forcing components to prevent damage. Once the stopper is removed, inspect for hair clogs around the stopper hub and down into the trap arm. If you see visible hair, pull it out with gloved fingers or needle-nose pliers. Documenting how the stopper was assembled helps you reassemble correctly later. This step is crucial because most tub clogs begin at or near the stopper, and clearing it first can dramatically improve flow and avoid unnecessary disassembly.

Clearing the drain: using a hair snake or plunger and alternative methods

With access gained, insert a drain snake or hand auger into the drain and rotate to hook hair and debris, then pull back slowly to remove buildup. If you don’t have a snake, a plunger can help dislodge soft clogs; ensure a good seal and pump steadily. For stubborn clogs, consider a flexible auger with a stiff head designed for curved pipes. If you’re wary of chemical cleaners, avoid them in favor of mechanical methods that preserve pipe integrity. Work in short, controlled pulls to prevent hair from wrapping around the snake shaft. After removing debris, wipe the area clean and inspect for remaining residue. Reinsert the stopper loosely to test the drain without fully sealing, and move to flushing steps if necessary.

Flushing the drain and testing for proper flow

To ensure the clog is fully cleared, flush the drain with hot, nearly boiling water in several small pours to avoid splashing. A baking soda and vinegar treatment can be used sparingly as a deodorizing measure, but avoid using them as a primary clearing method. After flushing, run a bath or pour water down the drain to test the flow. If the water still drains slowly or back up occurs, repeat the cleaning steps starting from removing the stopper. Once the drain flows freely, reassemble the stopper and overflow assembly, and perform a final test with multiple water runs. Regular maintenance afterward, including a screen to catch hair, will help prevent future blockages and keep the drain functioning smoothly. Drain Guide emphasizes documenting your fixes so you can reproduce the method if a similar issue recurs.

Prevention and maintenance tips

Prevention is the best cure for bathtub drains. Install a drain screen to catch hair before it enters the trap, and clean it weekly during heavier bathroom usage. Keep the overflow plate clean and free of hair, and regularly flush the drain with hot water after baths or showers. Periodically inspect the P-trap for signs of corrosion or leaks. If you live in a hard-water area, consider a light monthly rinse with a vinegar solution to reduce mineral buildup. Lastly, avoid pouring grease or thick detergents down the drain, and educate household members about hair management to minimize future clogs. Following these practices will reduce the frequency of clogs and extend the life of the plumbing.

Authority sources and further reading

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): https://www.epa.gov/
University Extension programs (example): https://extension.illinois.edu/
Consumer safety and home maintenance resources: https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/

These sources provide general guidance on plumbing safety, clog prevention, and safe maintenance practices. Always tailor solutions to your home’s plumbing configuration and consult a professional if you encounter complex pipe layouts or recurring clogs.

Troubleshooting beyond basic fix

If basic hair removal and stopper clearing don’t resolve the issue, the problem may lie deeper in the drainage system, such as a long horizontal drain run or a trap vent problem. In these cases, you may need to access the wall or floor junctions, which can be more invasive. Consider scheduling a professional evaluation if you observe persistent slow drainage, repeated clogs, leaks around the drain, or a strong sewer odor. A licensed plumber can perform a camera inspection to locate blockages without unnecessary guesswork and ensure your tub drains are safe and up to code.

Tools & Materials

Rubber gloves(Protects hands from grime and sharp edges)
Bucket(Catch water and debris; helps carry removed hair)
Old towels or rags(Protect surfaces and absorb spills)
Drain snake / hand auger(2-4 ft length; choose snake with curved head for tub drains)
Adjustable pliers / needle-nose pliers(For stopper removal and snagging hair)
Flathead screwdriver(To pry off a stubborn stopper cap)
Vinegar and baking soda(Optional deodorizing treatment; avoid as primary cleaner)
Boiling water(Flush after cleaning to help clear fine debris)
Wrench (if needed)(For stubborn threaded components)

Steps

Estimated time: 30-60 minutes

1
Clear the area and gather tools
Move all items out of the tub, place towels down, and lay out the tools you’ll need. This minimizes spills and keeps components accessible during the repair. Confirm you have a drain snake, pliers, and a bucket ready before you start.
Tip: Lay a plastic liner under your work area to catch hair and debris for easier cleanup.
2
Remove the bathtub stopper and gain access
Carefully remove the stopper according to its design—some push, twist, or lift. If the stopper is held by a cap or overflow plate, loosen it with a screwdriver or pliers. Take note of how the parts come apart to ensure proper reassembly.
Tip: Take a photo of the stopper assembly before disassembly to aid reassembly.
3
Inspect and clean the stopper and overflow
Check for hair threads around the stopper hub and down into the overflow. Remove hair with gloves or needle-nose pliers. Clean any soap scum and mineral deposits from the stopper, overflow openings, and trap entrance to improve flow.
Tip: If hair is deeply wedged, stop and use the snake from this point rather than forcing the stopper.
4
Clear the trap and lines with a snake
Insert the drain snake into the drain and rotate while pushing gently to grab hair and buildup. Pull back slowly to remove debris, then repeat as needed. If the clog is stubborn, gently work around bends and into the trap arm.
Tip: Keep one hand on the snake’s shaft to prevent it from snapping back.
5
Flush with hot water and optional cleaners
Pour hot water down the drain in multiple pours, allowing each to drain completely. A baking soda and vinegar treatment can help deodorize, but do not rely on it as the sole clearing method. Avoid caustic chemical cleaners in bathtubs.
Tip: Never pour boiling water directly onto plastic trap components; do it gradually.
6
Test, reassemble, and monitor
Run water and observe the drainage. Reassemble the stopper and overflow parts, then test again with several fill-drain cycles. If flow remains poor after multiple attempts, consider professional service.
Tip: Keep a record of what you did and any parts replaced for future reference.

Pro Tip: Install a fine-mesh drain screen to catch hair before it enters the trap.

Warning: Avoid chemical drain cleaners in bathtubs; they can damage pipes and skin.

Note: If you’re unsure about stopper removal, stop and consult a professional.

Got Questions?

What is the quickest way to fix a bathtub drain clogged with hair?

Start by removing the stopper and manually clearing visible hair. If needed, use a drain snake to grab deeper hair clogs. Re-test the flow after each step.

Can I use chemical drain cleaners for a bathtub drain?

Chemical cleaners can damage old pipes and the tub’s metal parts. Mechanical clearing with a snake or plunger is safer for most bathtubs. If you must, use them sparingly and follow the product directions.

Do I need to call a plumber if the drain remains slow after attempts?

If multiple methods fail after about an hour of effort or you notice gurgling, leaks, or odors, it’s wise to call a licensed plumber. A professional can identify deeper blockages or venting issues.

How often should I maintain bathtub drains?

Check and clean filters and screens every 1-3 months, depending on usage. A routine rinse with hot water after baths helps reduce buildup.

Why does the tub drain smell after unclogging?

Odors usually come from decaying organic matter trapped in the trap or from slow drainage. Flushing with hot water and ensuring the trap is dry after use helps reduce smells.

Is it safe to remove the overflow plate?

Yes, if you use the correct tools and don’t force components. If the plate is corroded or difficult to remove, replace the unit instead of forcing it.