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How to Snake Your Own Drain

A clogged drain is easily among the top three most common plumbing issues.

May 05, 2026
How to Snake Your Own Drain

A clogged drain is easily among the top three most common plumbing issues. The consequences of a clogged drain can range from a nuisance to devastating water damage. If you are experiencing slow drainage, foul odors, or water or sewage backups, then you might need to grab a drain snake quickly! In this article brought to you by Mr. Rooter Plumbing of New Jersey, we will go over how to snake your own drain. If you prefer a professional drain cleaning for long lasting results, then call Mr. Rooter Plumbing of New Jersey to schedule an appointment or arrange an emergency dispatch. Our live representatives are on standby to take your call now.

Get A Professional Drain Cleaning for Long Lasting Results

Unclogging the drain is nowhere near as effective as a professional drain cleaning. Our qualified plumbers in Ocean Township have the equipment to safely and thoroughly clear out the blockage so that you do not have to deal with the clog again any time soon.

Our Customers Reviews

Larry R.

Howell Township, NJ

It was a late Saturday night. We had a super stubborn clog in some old galvanized pipes. Mr. Rooter send out Phil. Phil was great! He found the problem pretty quick. With determination and professionalism he final got it cleared out. I would recommend Mr. Rooter and Phil to anyone! He even cleaned up. We are so happy we choose Mr. Rooter!

Rose Bernard

Red Bank, NJ

We had a plumbing emergency and found Mr. Rooter while frantically searching for a 24-hour plumber. We feel like we hit a gold mine. Not only did we get a timely response. Everyone at Mr. Rooter was friendly, professional, competent and went above and beyond. Our plumber, Phil, was extremely helpful and gave us tips we could use moving firwars. Not to mention, the cost was extremely reasonable.

Joseph Chis

Hillsborough, NJ

Had sewer water backup in toilet and tub. Received callback as promised and arrived early. The tech determined we needed the main line to be cleared. He quickly located the opening and had us cleared in minutes. Very happy with the service. I was not prepared for the fee but it was an emergency.

Christopher Cox

Little Silver Township

Plumber, Phil, came out on short notice on a Saturday night and fixed our issue quickly, professionally and courteously. I contacted a different, well known plumbing company right before Mr. Rooter. The receptionist was rude and they didn’t call me back to say they couldn’t make it until after Phil left! The Mr. Rooter receptionist was very nice and they called me back quickly. I’m glad they did.

Debbie Dimitrion

Colts Neck, NJ

I just wanted to say James did a great job at my house. Excellent service, professional and very nice. Thank you so much for helping me with my plumbing problem. Did wonderful job.

Rachel Turunen

Jackson Township

I was very happy that I went with Mr. Rooter’s. The service was very quick and up front. Jessie James was very helpful answering my questions and replacing my hot water heater. He was pleasurable to do business with. If another problem arises in my home, I will be using this company again.

William Holden

Brick Township, NJ

A thorough, professional, pleasant experience. I had a back-up in the 50 year-old pipes of my new home. I called Mr. Rooter to have them locate the blockage, snake the line, and then use their video snake to get a visual of the integrity of the pipes. I’m glad that I called and will use them again for future needs.

LarJ MarJ

Oakhurst, NJ

You get what you pay for. Edwin Robles of Central NJ educated me as a 1st time homebuyer on why and what he was repairing, prevention, PROMPT,(on a sunday at that!) clean, knowledgeable, super professional but DOWN TO EARTH and at a REASONABLE PRICE! Sewer pipes unclogged and main water line fixed. I was no longer crying once job was thoroughly executed. After all $#@* $tinks but somebody has to do it and I HIGHLY recommend him and this company for a job well done. THANK YOU VERY MUCH!!

Margie Rafferty-Criscione

Ocean Township

Absolutely lovely office staff! I always knew when the repair person was coming. Lorenzo our repair guy was awesome, I really don't think there is anything he can't do. He looks young, but don't let that fool you! So happy all the repairs are behind us. We really just did a one-stop shopping and decided to have everything we've put off fixed because it was such a tremendous experience!

How to Snake Your Own Drain

The Tools You Will Need

For this job, you will only need a drain snake and a large bucket to place under your drain. Also make sure to put on protective gear such as gloves and a mask when dealing with gray or black water.

A drain snake, or drain auger, is a long cable with a hook, bulb, or drill on one end to catch debris. The other end of the device will have a crank or handle to extend and pull the cable. The thickness of typical cables range between ¼ inch to 3/8 inch with lengths varying widely. They can be bought at your local hardware store at a reasonable price.

If you are in a rush or do not have the means to purchase an auger, you can put together a makeshift drain snake with a metal clothes hanger. Unravel and straighten the clothes hanger and duct tape clothe to the ends. This will protect your hands and the drains from damage.

Let’s Start Snaking!

If there is a screen or obstruction covering the drain, then remove it. Next, slowly push the cable into the drain, tuing the handle clockwise as you push. Keep your grip about two or three inches from the mouth of the drain to control the motion. You might hear scratching, but this is likely the cable moving around a curve in the drains. Once you hit a strong resistance, you may have hit the blockage. Push in and back out to feel for weight on the auger. Push back in until you puncture through, then pull the auger back out slowly, making sure not to lose the debris hooked on the end. If the blockage is extremely tough, you can pour hot water into the drain before snaking. This should soften the debris.

Consider This Method

If you can not do the grunt work involved in drain snaking, you can try using a homemade concoction. Pour half a cup of baking soda and one cup of vinegar into the drain. This should fizz and break apart the blockage. Then pour hot water into the drain to flush it down.

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