How to Unclog a Bathtub Drain

Unclogging bathtub drains can be complicated

Involving restricted access to the plumbing and shielded overflows.

Fortunately, most shower clogs can frequently be cleared by the homeowner or do-it-yourself type.
More good news from uncloggingdrains101.com. Today I learned about how to attack a slow or completely blocked bathtub drain.

Bathtub overflow and main drains seen from exterior

From uncloggingdrains101.com:

Plungers work by forming a seal so they can apply pressure and suction to push and pull on a clog until it breaks up enough for removal or flows down the pipe. If the plunger can't form a proper seal, it will not be able to do much to break up the blockage. This is why for a plunger to work on a bathtub drain you must first block up any secondary overflow drain. If you can't see the clog, nor reach the accumulated gunk with a bent wire, then it is time to try the plunger. It is not advised to use a plunger if you suspect something substantial or solid is causing the block--trying to plunge a shampoo cap or part from a child’s toy could just make the situation worse.

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