5.0 RATING

What to Do If Your Bathtub Won't Drain?

Having a bathtub that won't drain is not only inconvenient, but it's also unsanitary. This is a problem that many homeowners experience from time to…

$50_OFF

Expires On :31 May Print Water Heater Installation

May 05, 2026

Having a bathtub that won’t drain is not only inconvenient, but it’s also unsanitary. This is a problem that many homeowners experience from time to time. Bathtub drains may stop working for numerous reasons, such as clogged drain pipes, hard water buildup, hair clogs, soap scum, and more. So, what do you do when a bathtub won’t drain? Thankfully, there are several DIY techniques you can employ to fix a bathtub that won’t drain. If you don’t want to get your hands dirty, you could call a nearby plumbing service that specializes in bathroom plumbing for assistance.

Step 1: Remove the Blockage by Hand

First things first. Use a cup or scoop to remove any standing water in the tub. This will give you more room to work and prevent spills. Gently pull out any visible hair or debris you see around the drain stopper or overflow plate.

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!

What to Do If Your Bathtub Won’t Drain?

Mr. Rooter Plumbing is the trusted plumbing repair service you can count on for all of your bathroom plumbing needs. Today, we’ll talk about the steps you should take to fix a bathtub that won’t drain and what to do if you can’t resolve your drain problem on your own.

Step 2: Flush the Drain Boiling Water

If the clog is mainly soap scum or mild buildup, boiling water can come to your rescue. Boil a pot of water and carefully pour it down the drain. The hot water can help melt and loosen the clog, allowing it to flow away.

Step 3: Try Baking Soda and Vinegar

For tougher clogs, try a combination of baking soda and vinegar. Pour about half a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by a cup of vinegar. The mixture will fizz and foam as it breaks down the clog. Let it sit for 15-30 minutes, then flush with hot water. Baking soda and vinegar are both affordable, readily available, and non-toxic, making them a great choice for eco-conscious drain cleaning.

Step 4: Use a Wire Coat Hanger

If the clog is still stubbo, a wire coat hanger can come in handy. Straighten the hanger and fashion a small hook at the end. Carefully insert the hanger into the drain and fish around for the clog. Once you snag it, gently pull it out.

Step 5: Get the Plunger

Fill the bathtub with enough water to cover the plunger cup, then plunge vigorously for a few minutes. The pressure can help dislodge the clog and send it on its way.

Step 6: Grab a Plumbing Snake

If all else fails, it’s time to bring in the plumbing snake. This is a long, flexible cable with an auger at the end that can reach deep into the drain and break up even the most persistent clogs. You can find plumbing snakes at hardware stores or online.

How to unclog a bathtub drain using a plumbing snake:

Insert the snake

Feed the cable end of the snake into the drain opening slowly and carefully. You may feel resistance at the P-trap, the curved pipe beneath the drain.

Break up the clog

If you have an auger snake, rotate the handle to advance the corkscrew tip and break up the clog. If you have a drum auger, tu on the motor and feed the cable further into the drain while rotating the handle.

Pull out the clog

Once you feel you’ve reached the clog and broken it up, slowly pull the snake back out of the drain. You may see hair, soap scum, or other debris on the cable.

Flush the drain

Run hot water down the drain for several minutes to clear away any remaining debris. You can also try pouring a mixture of baking soda and vinegar down the drain to further dissolve any buildup.

Your Bathtub is Still Not Draining? Call Mr. Rooter Plumbing for Assistance

If your bathtub is still not draining properly after you’ve tried the DIY fixes we’ve covered above, then you need to call a professional plumbing repair service to help you out. Here at Mr. Rooter Plumbing, we offer professional drain cleaning services at affordable prices. We are equipped with state-of-the-art tools to clear even the most stubbo bathtub drain clogs. Our plumbers have the expertise, experience, and equipment to clear drain clogs and restore your plumbing to good working order.

Latest Updates & Blog Posts

The Worst Things We've Found Inside Garbage Disposals

Apr 22, 2026