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Clogged drains are a common problem that many homeowners face. Yet they’re especially problematic in the bathroom when you factor in hair, soap scum, and toothpaste.
If you’ve ever experienced a clogged drain in your bathroom, you’ll understand how frustrating it can be, especially when it becomes a common occurrence. Yet, there’s a simple but effective tool, called a drain snake, that can help you tackle this issue.
Here, The Bathroom Showroom considers the non-chemical secret tool of professionals; the drain snake! Helping you understand exactly what they’re for and just how they could help you in the bathroom when dealing with drain blockages, we highlight this fantastic DIY Tool.

What Is the Purpose of a Bathroom Drain Snake?

A bathroom drain snake is a long, flexible tool used to remove clogs in drains. Also referred to as a plumbing auger or drain auger, it consists of a coiled metal wire with a handle at one end and a small auger or hook at the other. 
The purpose of a drain snake is to reach deep into the pipes and dislodge or retrieve any debris causing the drain clog.
(It's worth noting though that "drain snake" is a general term encompassing various tools: small plastic strips (for hair clogs), handheld augers (for sinks/tubs), and closet augers (for toilets).

How To Use a Bathroom Drain Snake

Wear rubber gloves and eye protection (since water/gunk can splash up).
Step 1: Drain Access (Preparation)
  • Action: The stopper or strainer must be removed first. This includes lift-and-turn stoppers or screw-off grid covers.
Step 2: Insertion Technique
  • Action: Instruct the reader to feed the cable slowly into the drain opening until resistance is met before rotating the handle.
Step 3: Engaging the Clog
  • Action: Once resistance is met, rotate the cable clockwise while applying light pressure.
  • Purpose: This rotation helps the head hook the debris or bore through it.
Step 4: Retrieval
  • Action: Pull the drain snake slowly and steadily.
  • Safety: The clog material must be carefully contained and disposed of before it falls back down the drain.
Step 5: Flush and Confirm (Post-Cleaning)
Action: Run hot water for several minutes to rinse the pipes and confirm the flow is restored.

How To Unclog a Bathroom Sink

Unclogging a bathroom sink can be a quick and easy DIY task when using a drain snake.

The Benefits of Using a Bathroom Drain Snake

Plumbers and DIY enthusiasts rely on drain snakes for several reasons. Here are some of the benefits of using this versatile tool:
  1. Cost-Effective: Hiring a professional plumber to unclog your drains can be expensive. With a drain snake, you can save money by solving the problem yourself.
  2. Time-Saving: Waiting for a plumber to arrive can be frustrating. By having a drain snake on hand, you can quickly resolve minor blockages and get your drains flowing again in no time.
  3. Protects Plumbing and the Environment. A drain snake is eco-friendly, so the protection of the actual pipes (especially older or PVC pipes) from chemical corrosion is a massive benefit when avoiding harsh chemicals for cleaning.

The Importance of Preventing Bathroom Drain Blockages

While a bathroom drain snake is an excellent tool for unclogging drains, prevention is always better than cure. Here are some tips to prevent stubborn blockages in the bathroom:
  1. Introduce a DIY Enzyme Cleaner: Pour a mixture of 1 cup baking soda followed by 1 cup white vinegar, letting it sit for 30 minutes, and then flush with hot water. This provides a non-chemical maintenance routine.
  2. Use Drain Strainers: Install drain strainers in basins and showers to catch hair, soap scum, and other particles before they have a chance to cause a blockage.
  3. Avoid Pouring Grease: Dispose of cooking grease in a separate container instead of pouring it down the drain. Grease can solidify and create difficult-to-remove clogs.
  4. Educate Members of the Home: Teach other people in the home not to flush foreign objects, such as cotton balls, wipes, or dental floss, down the toilet or drain.

Keep Your Bathroom in Good Health 

Ultimately, a bathroom drain snake is a valuable tool for unclogging drains in your home. Plumbers and DIY enthusiasts alike rely on this simple yet effective device to tackle blockages in showers, toilets, and basins.
By understanding how a drain snake works and following some preventive measures, you can keep your drains flowing smoothly and avoid the frustration of clogged pipes.
For more help and advice in and around the bathroom, take a look at both our Blog and Rest & Relaxation section.
If you’re looking to create a healthy space, book an appointment with The Bathroom Showroom. Experts in all things bathrooms, we can help turn your dream bathroom into a reality.