A bathtub drain clogged with hair is one of the most common household plumbing issues. If water pools around your ankles while you shower, you likely have a hair clog. This guide will show you how to unclog a bathtub drain full of hair using simple tools and safe techniques — and when it’s time to call a professional.
Why Hair Clogs Are So Common in Bathtub Drains
Hair binds with soap scum, body oils, and mineral deposits from hard water to form a dense, sticky mass. Over time, this mass narrows the pipe and traps more debris. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s WaterSense program, even small clogs can reduce drain flow and lead to standing water that wastes resources (EPA WaterSense). The International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO) also notes that hair is the leading cause of residential tub drain blockages (IAPMO).
Tools You’ll Need
- Drain snake or zip-it tool (plastic barbed stick)
- Rubber gloves
- Bucket or old towel
- Baking soda and white vinegar (for maintenance)
- Pliers or screwdriver (to remove the drain stopper)
- Flashlight
Step-by-Step Methods to Remove Hair Clogs
Method 1: Remove the Drain Stopper
Most tub drains have a pop-up stopper or a strainer that can be unscrewed. Lift the stopper or use pliers to turn it counterclockwise. Pull out any visible hair clump with your fingers or a hook. This alone often clears the blockage.
Method 2: Use a Zip-It Tool or Drain Snake
Insert the plastic barbed stick into the drain opening. Push it in until you feel resistance, then twist and pull out. The barbs will snag hair and debris. Repeat until no more hair comes out. For deeper clogs, a manual drain snake (cable auger) can reach further into the pipe.
Method 3: Baking Soda and Vinegar Treatment
Pour ½ cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by ½ cup of white vinegar. Cover the drain with a plug or cloth for 15 minutes while the mixture fizzes. Then flush with boiling water (if your pipes are metal) or very hot tap water (for PVC pipes). This helps dissolve soap residue but may not fully remove a dense hair clog.
Method 4: Wet/Dry Vacuum (Advanced)
If you have a wet/dry shop vacuum, set it to wet mode, create a seal over the drain with a rubber attachment, and run the vacuum. The suction can pull out hair and water. This method works best after removing the stopper.
What NOT to Do
- Never use chemical drain cleaners — they can damage PVC pipes and harm septic systems. The CDC warns that these chemicals can cause burns and toxic fumes (CDC Healthy Water).
- Avoid using excessive force with a metal snake — you could scratch the porcelain or crack the pipe.
- Do not pour boiling water into a drain with standing water; it can cause steam burns or pipe damage.
When to Call a Professional Plumber
If you’ve tried the methods above and water still drains slowly — or if you notice gurgling sounds, foul odors, or water backing up into other fixtures — the clog may be deeper in the main line. MyTownPlumber’s drain cleaning team uses camera inspection and hydro-jetting to clear stubborn hair clogs without damaging your pipes. For recurring clogs, we can also check for pipe damage with leak detection services.
Comparison of Hair Clog Removal Methods
| Method | Effectiveness | Time Needed | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Remove stopper & manual removal | High (if clog is near top) | 5–10 minutes | $0 (tools on hand) |
| Zip-it tool / drain snake | High (moderate depth) | 10–20 minutes | $5–$15 (tool cost) |
| Baking soda & vinegar | Low for hair; good for maintenance | 20–30 minutes | $1–$3 |
| Wet/dry vacuum | Moderate (requires equipment) | 15–30 minutes | $50–$150 (if buying vacuum) |
| Professional hydro-jetting | Very high (full clearance) | 30–60 minutes | $150–$400 (typical US range; varies by region) |
Preventing Future Hair Clogs
Install a hair catcher or drain strainer over the drain opening. Clean it after every shower. Once a month, flush the drain with hot water and baking soda. Avoid pouring grease or oil down the tub. If you have long hair, brush before showering to reduce loose strands. For ongoing issues, consider pipe repair if the drain has become rough or corroded inside.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a plunger on a bathtub hair clog?
Yes, but only if you seal the overflow drain (the hole near the faucet) with a wet cloth or duct tape. Otherwise, the plunger will push air through the overflow instead of forcing the clog. Plungers work best on clogs that are not entirely solid hair — they may dislodge soap scum but often won’t pull out hair.
How do I know if the clog is in the main sewer line?
If multiple fixtures (tub, toilet, sink) drain slowly or back up simultaneously, the clog may be in the main line. Other signs include gurgling sounds from other drains or a foul sewage smell. In that case, call a professional for sewer line repair service.
Will boiling water damage my PVC pipes?
Yes. PVC pipes can soften or warp at temperatures above 140°F. Use hot tap water (not boiling) for PVC drains. For metal pipes (copper or cast iron), boiling water is generally safe.
How often should I clean my bathtub drain?
Preventive cleaning every 4–6 weeks with baking soda and hot water helps. If you have long hair or multiple household members, clean the hair catcher after every use and do a deeper manual removal every 3 months.
Is it safe to use a chemical drain cleaner in a tub?
No. Chemical drain cleaners can generate heat that warps PVC, corrode metal pipes, and create toxic fumes. They also kill beneficial bacteria in septic systems. Mechanical removal is safer and more effective.
What if the drain stopper won’t come out?
Some stoppers are held by a set screw under the overflow plate. Remove the two screws on the overflow cover, pull out the linkage, and the stopper should release. If it’s still stuck, a plumber can remove it without breaking the fixture.
Get Professional Help Today
If you’ve tried every DIY trick and your bathtub still won’t drain, trust the experts at MyTownPlumber. We offer fast, reliable service for clogged drains and more. Schedule your service today and get your tub flowing freely again.
By MyTownPlumber Editorial Team