How to unclog a bathtub drain filled with shampoo residue?

 
Prepare the Bathtub and Gather Materials
 

• Clear the bathtub of any items and remove excess water if it hasn’t already drained.
• Gather basic materials such as a plunger, a drain snake or a flexible cleaning tool, a cup or bowl, protective gloves, a screwdriver (if your drain cover requires unscrewing), baking soda, white vinegar, boiling or very hot water, and towels or a rag.
• Make sure that the room is well ventilated if you plan to use any cleaning agents or if you want to let the vinegar fumes disperse.

 
Remove the Drain Cover and Check for Obstructions
 

• If your bathtub drain has a cover, carefully remove it using your hands or a screwdriver, following the manufacturer's instructions if provided.
• Inspect the drain for any visible buildup around the opening. Often hair and shampoo residue accumulate near the top, forming a visible blockage.
• Wear gloves and use a tool or your fingers to remove any loose debris that might be obstructing the drain.

 
Use a Plunger to Dislodge Shampoo Residue
 

• Position the plunger over the drain so that it covers it completely.
• Make sure there is enough water in the tub to help create a good seal.
• Vigorously plunge up and down several times to create suction and dislodge the shampoo residue along with any loosened debris.
• After plunging, lift the plunger quickly to allow water to rush down the drain. Repeat the process if you notice some improvement but not full clearance.

 
Apply a Baking Soda and Vinegar Treatment
nbsp;

• Pour about 1/2 to 1 cup of baking soda into the drain. Try to get as much as possible into the drain itself.
• Follow with 1 cup of white vinegar over the baking soda. The mixture will fizz and bubble; this reaction helps break down the shampoo residue and any soap scum that may be acting as a glue between particles.
• Let this mixture stand for at least 15 to 20 minutes. For more stubborn blockages, you may allow it to work for 30 minutes.
• Once done, slowly pour boiling or very hot water (test first if you have plastic pipes) into the drain to flush out the loosened residue and remaining baking soda/vinegar mixture.

 
Employ a Drain Snake or Flexible Cleaning Tool
 

• If the drain is still not fully clear, insert a drain snake or a similar flexible tool into the drain. This tool can help reach further into the pipe where blockages from shampoo residue might reside.
• Slowly turn and maneuver the snake, allowing it to hook or break up any lingering buildup. Periodically pull the snake out to inspect the debris being removed.
• Repeat the process, moving the snake deeper as needed until you’ve cleared any obstructions beyond the immediate drain opening.

 
Flush and Test the Drain
 

• After treatment, remove any remaining debris from the drain area.
• Pour another round of very hot water down the drain to remove any residual loose shampoo, baking soda, vinegar, or debris.
• Test the drain by running water to check if it flows freely. If water still drains slowly, repeat the baking soda and vinegar treatment or use the snake once more.

 
Prevent Future Clogs
 

• Regularly clean the drain cover and remove any hair or residue that accumulates.
• Periodically pour hot water down the drain to help melt and wash away any emerging soap scum or shampoo residue.
• Consider using a drain strainer or hair catcher to reduce the amount of debris entering the pipe.

 

Homeowners and business operators throughout St. Louis and Nashville may find that incorporating these straightforward maintenance tips into their regular routine helps keep drains clear and functioning efficiently.