Unclog a Tub or Shower with a Hair Snake

Clear slow drains fast with a simple plastic hair snake—no harsh chemicals needed.
Difficulty: Very Easy
Success Rate: 90%
Cost: $3 - $10
Estimated Timeline: 10–20m
Turn Off Water: No
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Tools Needed:

  • Plastic hair snake (barbed)

  • Rubber gloves

  • Small bucket or trash bag

  • Paper towels or rags

  • Flashlight

Materials / Parts:

  • Replacement drain cover screws (optional)

  • Mild bathroom cleaner (for finish cleanup)

Safety Warnings:

  • Wear gloves; hair clumps can contain sharp debris.

  • Do not force tools into metal traps—avoid damaging finishes.

  • Avoid chemical drain cleaners before snaking; they can splash.

Test & Verify:

  • Water drains quickly without pooling.

  • No gurgling sounds or backup after a full-minute shower test.

  • Drain cover sits flush and secure.

Cleanup & Disposal:

  • Bag and trash the hair/debris; disinfect tools and the drain cover.

  • Wipe the tub/shower surface and rinse.

Pre-Checks:

  • Confirm slow drain or standing water after a shower.

  • Identify drain cover style (lift-and-turn, screw-in, snap-in).

  • Check for a built-in hair catcher you can lift out first.

  • Place a bucket or bag nearby for debris.

Step-By-Step Instructions:

  1. Remove the drain cover (unscrew or pry gently per type); set screws aside safely.

  2. Shine a flashlight into the drain to locate visible hair buildup.

  3. Insert the hair snake with barbs facing down; feed slowly until you feel resistance.

  4. Twist and pull upward in short strokes to snag hair; wipe debris into the bucket/bag.

  5. Repeat insert–twist–pull until the snake comes up mostly clean.

  6. Run hot water for 10–20 seconds; if it backs up, repeat snaking.

  7. Clean the drain rim and underside of the cover; reinstall the cover.

  8. Finish by running hot water for 1–2 minutes to confirm a steady whirlpool.

When to Stop & Call a Pro:

  • Water backs up in nearby fixtures (sink or toilet) when the tub drains.

  • Standing water returns within hours or clogs recur frequently.

  • Drain cover or shoe is corroded and won’t come off without damage.

  • Bad sewer odor or black sludge continues after clearing hair.

Common Mistakes:

  • Skipping cover removal and breaking the snake on the grate.

  • Forcing the snake past the trap and getting it stuck.

  • Using chemical cleaners first, then snaking (dangerous splashes).

  • Not repeating the pull cycles enough to remove the full wad.

Troubleshooting:

Q: Snake comes up clean but the drain is still slow.
A: The clog may be beyond the trap—use a 1/4″ manual drain auger or call a pro.

Q: Drain runs, but odor remains.
A: Clean the overflow and underside of the cover; run hot water and use an enzymatic cleaner overnight.

Q: Cover won’t budge.
A: Look for a hidden set screw under a cap; apply penetrating oil and try again carefully.

Q: Water drains, then backs up later.
A: Hair downstream or soap-scale may remain; repeat snaking and consider an enzymatic maintenance treatment.