The Ultimate Guide to Unclogging Your Bathtub, Toilet, and Main Drain

Boiling Water: If you have metal pipes (not PVC, which can be damaged by boiling water), this is a great first step. Remove any standing water, then carefully pour a kettle of boiling water down the drain. This can dissolve soap scum and grease. Repeat if necessary.

Baking Soda and Vinegar: This home remedy loosens grime and deodorizes drains. Pour 1 cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by 1 cup of white vinegar. The fizzing reaction helps break up debris. Cover the drain to contain the reaction and let it sit for at least 30 minutes. Finally, flush thoroughly with hot water. This is great for maintenance and removing odors.

Using a Plunger: A plunger is effective for many clogs. Add a few inches of water to the tub to help create a seal. Crucially, seal the overflow drain with a damp rag to direct all force toward the clog. Place the plunger cup over the drain and plunge vigorously for 15-20 seconds. Repeat until the clog is dislodged.

Using a Drain Snake: For deeper hair clogs, a drain snake or plastic drain tool is best. Feed the tool into the drain until you feel resistance. If using a snake, turn the handle to hook the blockage. If using a plastic tool, its barbs will snag the hair. Slowly pull the tool out to remove the gunk. Flush the drain with hot water afterward. This mechanical method is highly effective for hair and soap scum.

Use a Hair Catcher: Place a mesh screen or hair catcher over your tub drain. This is your best defense against hair and soap scum entering your pipes. Empty it after each use.

Perform Regular Maintenance: Once a month, use the baking soda and vinegar method (1 cup of each, let sit for 30 minutes, then flush with hot water) to loosen buildup and deodorize drains. For metal pipes, a weekly flush with boiling water helps dissolve accumulating grease and soap scum.

Never Pour Grease Down the Drain: Cooking grease, fats, and oils solidify in pipes, creating stubborn blockages. Scrape them into a container and throw them in the trash.

Only Flush Human Waste and Toilet Paper: "Flushable" wipes, paper towels, cotton balls, and dental floss do not break down properly and are a primary cause of clogs. Dispose of them in the trash.

Brush Hair Before Showering: A quick brush before you get in the shower can significantly reduce the amount of hair that goes down the drain.

Use Enzyme-Based Cleaners: For ongoing maintenance, these eco-friendly cleaners use bacteria to digest organic buildup over time, keeping drains fresh and clear without harsh chemicals.

Recurring Clogs: If the same drain clogs repeatedly despite your efforts, there's likely a deeper issue, such as a dense blockage or a sag in the pipe.

Multiple Fixtures Blocked: When your tub, toilet, and sink back up simultaneously, the problem is in your main sewer line and requires professional equipment.

Sewage Backup: If raw sewage is coming up through your drains, it's a health hazard that demands immediate professional attention. Do not attempt to clear it yourself.

DIY Methods Fail: After trying a plunger, snake, and other home remedies without success, the clog is likely too dense or too far down the pipe for your tools.

Suspected Pipe Damage or Tree Root Intrusion: If you suspect older pipes are corroded or that tree roots have invaded your sewer line, a professional is needed to avoid causing more damage.

Persistent Foul Odors: Lingering sewage or moldy smells indicate debris and bacteria buildup deep within your system that household tools can't reach.

Boiling Water: If you have metal pipes (not PVC, which can be damaged by boiling water), this is a great first step. Remove any standing water, then carefully pour a kettle of boiling water down the drain. This can dissolve soap scum and grease. Repeat if necessary.

Baking Soda and Vinegar: This home remedy loosens grime and deodorizes drains. Pour 1 cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by 1 cup of white vinegar. The fizzing reaction helps break up debris. Cover the drain to contain the reaction and let it sit for at least 30 minutes. Finally, flush thoroughly with hot water. This is great for maintenance and removing odors.

Using a Plunger: A plunger is effective for many clogs. Add a few inches of water to the tub to help create a seal. Crucially, seal the overflow drain with a damp rag to direct all force toward the clog. Place the plunger cup over the drain and plunge vigorously for 15-20 seconds. Repeat until the clog is dislodged.

Using a Drain Snake: For deeper hair clogs, a drain snake or plastic drain tool is best. Feed the tool into the drain until you feel resistance. If using a snake, turn the handle to hook the blockage. If using a plastic tool, its barbs will snag the hair. Slowly pull the tool out to remove the gunk. Flush the drain with hot water afterward. This mechanical method is highly effective for hair and soap scum.

Use a Hair Catcher: Place a mesh screen or hair catcher over your tub drain. This is your best defense against hair and soap scum entering your pipes. Empty it after each use.

Perform Regular Maintenance: Once a month, use the baking soda and vinegar method (1 cup of each, let sit for 30 minutes, then flush with hot water) to loosen buildup and deodorize drains. For metal pipes, a weekly flush with boiling water helps dissolve accumulating grease and soap scum.

Never Pour Grease Down the Drain: Cooking grease, fats, and oils solidify in pipes, creating stubborn blockages. Scrape them into a container and throw them in the trash.

Only Flush Human Waste and Toilet Paper: "Flushable" wipes, paper towels, cotton balls, and dental floss do not break down properly and are a primary cause of clogs. Dispose of them in the trash.

Brush Hair Before Showering: A quick brush before you get in the shower can significantly reduce the amount of hair that goes down the drain.

Use Enzyme-Based Cleaners: For ongoing maintenance, these eco-friendly cleaners use bacteria to digest organic buildup over time, keeping drains fresh and clear without harsh chemicals.

Recurring Clogs: If the same drain clogs repeatedly despite your efforts, there's likely a deeper issue, such as a dense blockage or a sag in the pipe.

Multiple Fixtures Blocked: When your tub, toilet, and sink back up simultaneously, the problem is in your main sewer line and requires professional equipment.

Sewage Backup: If raw sewage is coming up through your drains, it's a health hazard that demands immediate professional attention. Do not attempt to clear it yourself.

DIY Methods Fail: After trying a plunger, snake, and other home remedies without success, the clog is likely too dense or too far down the pipe for your tools.

Suspected Pipe Damage or Tree Root Intrusion: If you suspect older pipes are corroded or that tree roots have invaded your sewer line, a professional is needed to avoid causing more damage.

Persistent Foul Odors: Lingering sewage or moldy smells indicate debris and bacteria buildup deep within your system that household tools can't reach.

Boiling Water: If you have metal pipes (not PVC, which can be damaged by boiling water), this is a great first step. Remove any standing water, then carefully pour a kettle of boiling water down the drain. This can dissolve soap scum and grease. Repeat if necessary.

Baking Soda and Vinegar: This home remedy loosens grime and deodorizes drains. Pour 1 cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by 1 cup of white vinegar. The fizzing reaction helps break up debris. Cover the drain to contain the reaction and let it sit for at least 30 minutes. Finally, flush thoroughly with hot water. This is great for maintenance and removing odors.

Using a Plunger: A plunger is effective for many clogs. Add a few inches of water to the tub to help create a seal. Crucially, seal the overflow drain with a damp rag to direct all force toward the clog. Place the plunger cup over the drain and plunge vigorously for 15-20 seconds. Repeat until the clog is dislodged.

Using a Drain Snake: For deeper hair clogs, a drain snake or plastic drain tool is best. Feed the tool into the drain until you feel resistance. If using a snake, turn the handle to hook the blockage. If using a plastic tool, its barbs will snag the hair. Slowly pull the tool out to remove the gunk. Flush the drain with hot water afterward. This mechanical method is highly effective for hair and soap scum.

Use a Hair Catcher: Place a mesh screen or hair catcher over your tub drain. This is your best defense against hair and soap scum entering your pipes. Empty it after each use.

Perform Regular Maintenance: Once a month, use the baking soda and vinegar method (1 cup of each, let sit for 30 minutes, then flush with hot water) to loosen buildup and deodorize drains. For metal pipes, a weekly flush with boiling water helps dissolve accumulating grease and soap scum.

Never Pour Grease Down the Drain: Cooking grease, fats, and oils solidify in pipes, creating stubborn blockages. Scrape them into a container and throw them in the trash.

Only Flush Human Waste and Toilet Paper: "Flushable" wipes, paper towels, cotton balls, and dental floss do not break down properly and are a primary cause of clogs. Dispose of them in the trash.

Brush Hair Before Showering: A quick brush before you get in the shower can significantly reduce the amount of hair that goes down the drain.

Use Enzyme-Based Cleaners: For ongoing maintenance, these eco-friendly cleaners use bacteria to digest organic buildup over time, keeping drains fresh and clear without harsh chemicals.

Recurring Clogs: If the same drain clogs repeatedly despite your efforts, there's likely a deeper issue, such as a dense blockage or a sag in the pipe.

Multiple Fixtures Blocked: When your tub, toilet, and sink back up simultaneously, the problem is in your main sewer line and requires professional equipment.

Sewage Backup: If raw sewage is coming up through your drains, it's a health hazard that demands immediate professional attention. Do not attempt to clear it yourself.

DIY Methods Fail: After trying a plunger, snake, and other home remedies without success, the clog is likely too dense or too far down the pipe for your tools.

Suspected Pipe Damage or Tree Root Intrusion: If you suspect older pipes are corroded or that tree roots have invaded your sewer line, a professional is needed to avoid causing more damage.

Persistent Foul Odors: Lingering sewage or moldy smells indicate debris and bacteria buildup deep within your system that household tools can't reach.

Boiling Water: If you have metal pipes (not PVC, which can be damaged by boiling water), this is a great first step. Remove any standing water, then carefully pour a kettle of boiling water down the drain. This can dissolve soap scum and grease. Repeat if necessary.

Baking Soda and Vinegar: This home remedy loosens grime and deodorizes drains. Pour 1 cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by 1 cup of white vinegar. The fizzing reaction helps break up debris. Cover the drain to contain the reaction and let it sit for at least 30 minutes. Finally, flush thoroughly with hot water. This is great for maintenance and removing odors.

Using a Plunger: A plunger is effective for many clogs. Add a few inches of water to the tub to help create a seal. Crucially, seal the overflow drain with a damp rag to direct all force toward the clog. Place the plunger cup over the drain and plunge vigorously for 15-20 seconds. Repeat until the clog is dislodged.

Using a Drain Snake: For deeper hair clogs, a drain snake or plastic drain tool is best. Feed the tool into the drain until you feel resistance. If using a snake, turn the handle to hook the blockage. If using a plastic tool, its barbs will snag the hair. Slowly pull the tool out to remove the gunk. Flush the drain with hot water afterward. This mechanical method is highly effective for hair and soap scum.

Use a Hair Catcher: Place a mesh screen or hair catcher over your tub drain. This is your best defense against hair and soap scum entering your pipes. Empty it after each use.

Perform Regular Maintenance: Once a month, use the baking soda and vinegar method (1 cup of each, let sit for 30 minutes, then flush with hot water) to loosen buildup and deodorize drains. For metal pipes, a weekly flush with boiling water helps dissolve accumulating grease and soap scum.

Never Pour Grease Down the Drain: Cooking grease, fats, and oils solidify in pipes, creating stubborn blockages. Scrape them into a container and throw them in the trash.

Only Flush Human Waste and Toilet Paper: "Flushable" wipes, paper towels, cotton balls, and dental floss do not break down properly and are a primary cause of clogs. Dispose of them in the trash.

Brush Hair Before Showering: A quick brush before you get in the shower can significantly reduce the amount of hair that goes down the drain.

Use Enzyme-Based Cleaners: For ongoing maintenance, these eco-friendly cleaners use bacteria to digest organic buildup over time, keeping drains fresh and clear without harsh chemicals.

Recurring Clogs: If the same drain clogs repeatedly despite your efforts, there's likely a deeper issue, such as a dense blockage or a sag in the pipe.

Multiple Fixtures Blocked: When your tub, toilet, and sink back up simultaneously, the problem is in your main sewer line and requires professional equipment.

Sewage Backup: If raw sewage is coming up through your drains, it's a health hazard that demands immediate professional attention. Do not attempt to clear it yourself.

DIY Methods Fail: After trying a plunger, snake, and other home remedies without success, the clog is likely too dense or too far down the pipe for your tools.

Suspected Pipe Damage or Tree Root Intrusion: If you suspect older pipes are corroded or that tree roots have invaded your sewer line, a professional is needed to avoid causing more damage.

Persistent Foul Odors: Lingering sewage or moldy smells indicate debris and bacteria buildup deep within your system that household tools can't reach.

Boiling Water: If you have metal pipes (not PVC, which can be damaged by boiling water), this is a great first step. Remove any standing water, then carefully pour a kettle of boiling water down the drain. This can dissolve soap scum and grease. Repeat if necessary.

Baking Soda and Vinegar: This home remedy loosens grime and deodorizes drains. Pour 1 cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by 1 cup of white vinegar. The fizzing reaction helps break up debris. Cover the drain to contain the reaction and let it sit for at least 30 minutes. Finally, flush thoroughly with hot water. This is great for maintenance and removing odors.

Using a Plunger: A plunger is effective for many clogs. Add a few inches of water to the tub to help create a seal. Crucially, seal the overflow drain with a damp rag to direct all force toward the clog. Place the plunger cup over the drain and plunge vigorously for 15-20 seconds. Repeat until the clog is dislodged.

Using a Drain Snake: For deeper hair clogs, a drain snake or plastic drain tool is best. Feed the tool into the drain until you feel resistance. If using a snake, turn the handle to hook the blockage. If using a plastic tool, its barbs will snag the hair. Slowly pull the tool out to remove the gunk. Flush the drain with hot water afterward. This mechanical method is highly effective for hair and soap scum.

Use a Hair Catcher: Place a mesh screen or hair catcher over your tub drain. This is your best defense against hair and soap scum entering your pipes. Empty it after each use.

Perform Regular Maintenance: Once a month, use the baking soda and vinegar method (1 cup of each, let sit for 30 minutes, then flush with hot water) to loosen buildup and deodorize drains. For metal pipes, a weekly flush with boiling water helps dissolve accumulating grease and soap scum.

Never Pour Grease Down the Drain: Cooking grease, fats, and oils solidify in pipes, creating stubborn blockages. Scrape them into a container and throw them in the trash.

Only Flush Human Waste and Toilet Paper: "Flushable" wipes, paper towels, cotton balls, and dental floss do not break down properly and are a primary cause of clogs. Dispose of them in the trash.

Brush Hair Before Showering: A quick brush before you get in the shower can significantly reduce the amount of hair that goes down the drain.

Use Enzyme-Based Cleaners: For ongoing maintenance, these eco-friendly cleaners use bacteria to digest organic buildup over time, keeping drains fresh and clear without harsh chemicals.

Recurring Clogs: If the same drain clogs repeatedly despite your efforts, there's likely a deeper issue, such as a dense blockage or a sag in the pipe.

Multiple Fixtures Blocked: When your tub, toilet, and sink back up simultaneously, the problem is in your main sewer line and requires professional equipment.

Sewage Backup: If raw sewage is coming up through your drains, it's a health hazard that demands immediate professional attention. Do not attempt to clear it yourself.

DIY Methods Fail: After trying a plunger, snake, and other home remedies without success, the clog is likely too dense or too far down the pipe for your tools.

Suspected Pipe Damage or Tree Root Intrusion: If you suspect older pipes are corroded or that tree roots have invaded your sewer line, a professional is needed to avoid causing more damage.

Persistent Foul Odors: Lingering sewage or moldy smells indicate debris and bacteria buildup deep within your system that household tools can't reach.

Boiling Water: If you have metal pipes (not PVC, which can be damaged by boiling water), this is a great first step. Remove any standing water, then carefully pour a kettle of boiling water down the drain. This can dissolve soap scum and grease. Repeat if necessary.

Baking Soda and Vinegar: This home remedy loosens grime and deodorizes drains. Pour 1 cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by 1 cup of white vinegar. The fizzing reaction helps break up debris. Cover the drain to contain the reaction and let it sit for at least 30 minutes. Finally, flush thoroughly with hot water. This is great for maintenance and removing odors.

Using a Plunger: A plunger is effective for many clogs. Add a few inches of water to the tub to help create a seal. Crucially, seal the overflow drain with a damp rag to direct all force toward the clog. Place the plunger cup over the drain and plunge vigorously for 15-20 seconds. Repeat until the clog is dislodged.

Using a Drain Snake: For deeper hair clogs, a drain snake or plastic drain tool is best. Feed the tool into the drain until you feel resistance. If using a snake, turn the handle to hook the blockage. If using a plastic tool, its barbs will snag the hair. Slowly pull the tool out to remove the gunk. Flush the drain with hot water afterward. This mechanical method is highly effective for hair and soap scum.

Use a Hair Catcher: Place a mesh screen or hair catcher over your tub drain. This is your best defense against hair and soap scum entering your pipes. Empty it after each use.

Perform Regular Maintenance: Once a month, use the baking soda and vinegar method (1 cup of each, let sit for 30 minutes, then flush with hot water) to loosen buildup and deodorize drains. For metal pipes, a weekly flush with boiling water helps dissolve accumulating grease and soap scum.

Never Pour Grease Down the Drain: Cooking grease, fats, and oils solidify in pipes, creating stubborn blockages. Scrape them into a container and throw them in the trash.

Only Flush Human Waste and Toilet Paper: "Flushable" wipes, paper towels, cotton balls, and dental floss do not break down properly and are a primary cause of clogs. Dispose of them in the trash.

Brush Hair Before Showering: A quick brush before you get in the shower can significantly reduce the amount of hair that goes down the drain.

Use Enzyme-Based Cleaners: For ongoing maintenance, these eco-friendly cleaners use bacteria to digest organic buildup over time, keeping drains fresh and clear without harsh chemicals.

Recurring Clogs: If the same drain clogs repeatedly despite your efforts, there's likely a deeper issue, such as a dense blockage or a sag in the pipe.

Multiple Fixtures Blocked: When your tub, toilet, and sink back up simultaneously, the problem is in your main sewer line and requires professional equipment.

Sewage Backup: If raw sewage is coming up through your drains, it's a health hazard that demands immediate professional attention. Do not attempt to clear it yourself.

DIY Methods Fail: After trying a plunger, snake, and other home remedies without success, the clog is likely too dense or too far down the pipe for your tools.

Suspected Pipe Damage or Tree Root Intrusion: If you suspect older pipes are corroded or that tree roots have invaded your sewer line, a professional is needed to avoid causing more damage.

Persistent Foul Odors: Lingering sewage or moldy smells indicate debris and bacteria buildup deep within your system that household tools can't reach.