How to Unclog a Bathroom Drain (Shower, Tub, and Sink)

Clogged bathroom drains are almost always caused by hair and soap buildup. Here's how to clear every type of bathroom drain quickly and effectively without harsh chemicals.

What You'll Need

• Drain Snake Hair Clog Remover (3-Pack) — flexible plastic tool with barbs that grab and pull out hair clogs
• Baking soda and white vinegar
• Zeiff Probiotic Enzyme Cleaner
• A plunger (for complete blockages)
• Boiling water
• Rubber gloves

Step 1: Identify the Clog

• Shower drain: Almost always hair — use the drain snake first
• Bathtub drain: Hair and soap scum — drain snake plus baking soda + vinegar flush
• Bathroom sink: Hair on the stopper mechanism and soap scum — clean the stopper first, then drain snake

Method 1: Drain Snake (Most Effective for Hair)

1. Remove the drain cover or strainer.
2. Insert the drain snake into the drain opening.
3. Push down and rotate to hook the hair clog.
4. Pull out slowly — the barbs grab and pull the hair out.
5. Dispose of the hair and repeat until no more comes out.
6. Run hot water to flush the drain.

Method 2: Baking Soda + Vinegar + Boiling Water

1. Pour ½ cup of baking soda down the drain.
2. Follow with ½ cup of white vinegar.
3. Cover the drain and let fizz for 20–30 minutes.
4. Flush with a full kettle of boiling water.

Effective for soap scum and partial clogs. Use after the drain snake for best results.

Method 3: Plunger (For Complete Blockages)

1. Cover the overflow hole (in sinks and tubs) with a wet cloth to create suction.
2. Place the plunger over the drain and push down firmly.
3. Plunge vigorously 10–15 times.
4. Pull up sharply on the last stroke to break the clog loose.
5. Run water to test and repeat if needed.

Method 4: Clean the Sink Stopper (For Sink Clogs)

Bathroom sink clogs often start at the pop-up stopper, not in the drain pipe:

1. Lift or unscrew the stopper.
2. Remove the hair and soap scum wrapped around the stopper mechanism.
3. Clean the stopper with dish soap and a toothbrush.
4. Replace and test drainage.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I unclog a shower drain full of hair?

The drain snake is the most effective tool — it physically removes the hair rather than pushing it further down. Insert, rotate, pull, and repeat until no more hair comes out. Follow with a baking soda + vinegar flush to clear remaining soap scum.

Should I use Drano to unclog a bathroom drain?

Avoid chemical drain cleaners for regular use — they damage pipes over time and kill beneficial bacteria in septic systems. The drain snake and enzyme cleaner are safer, equally effective, and don't damage your plumbing.

My drain is still clogged after using the drain snake. What next?

The clog may be deeper in the pipe or in the P-trap. Place a bucket under the P-trap (the curved pipe under the sink), unscrew it, clean it out, and replace. If the clog is in the main drain line, contact a plumber.