Most clogged bathtub drains can be cleared with aplungeror by removing andcleaning out the tub stopper.

The processes are similar and either can be used, butmotorized is preferable for a more serious clog.

A small power snake with a 1/4-inch cable is the preferred tool of choice for clearing a bathtub drain.

Motorized drain snake inserted into bathtub’s overflow drain

The Spruce / Kevin Norris

These tools operate like a power drill, with a front-mounted canister that contains a coiled cable.

Behind the overflow plate, it’s possible for you to enter the tub drain through the overflow tube.

Feed the Snake

Insert the end of the snake cable into the overflow opening.

Materials and tools to unblock a bathtub drain with a motorized snake

The Spruce / Kevin Norris

Grasp the machine with your strongest hand and feed the cable with your other.

For extra support, kneel on the floor of the tub and rest your arm on your leg.

Keep in mind, a slow motor speed usually produces the best results.

Plastic drop cloth placed on bottom of bathtub drain

The Spruce / Kevin Norris

Keep the cable no more than a foot out of the overflow to prevent kinking.

If the cable begins to bend or kink, pull it back then feed it forward again more slowly.

Sometimes a large clog will cause this bang out of tension.

Overflow plate removed with screwdriver from bathtub

The Spruce / Kevin Norris

Tip

Tub drains usually tie in with the toilet mainline in less than 10 feet.

This usually makes the cable feed in the right direction.

The P-trap holds solids that can clog the sewer line or the drain.

Motorized snake drain inserted into overflow drain opening

The Spruce / Kevin Norris

This will help to loosen any scum that is blocking your snake from removing the clog.

Measure the drain pipe diameter to see which size snake will fit.

Snake motor turned on with cable inserted into overflow drain

The Spruce / Kevin Norris

Motorized snake cable extracted from overflow drain opening

The Spruce / Kevin Norris