How to Snake a Drain to Clear Blockages 🐍🚿

Is your sink, shower, or tub draining slow — or worse, not draining at all? 😩

If plunging isn’t doing the trick, it’s time to bring in a plumbing snake (a.k.a. drain auger). This simple tool can cut through clogs like hair, grease, soap scum, or mystery gunk — without harsh chemicals.

In this guide, we’ll show you:

• ✅ How to use a drain snake step by step
• 🧰 The different types of snakes and what they’re best for
• ⚠️ Common mistakes to avoid
• 🧼 Post-snake cleanup tips
• 📞 When it’s time to call in Dr. Pipes

🧠 What Is a Plumbing Snake (a.k.a. Drain Auger)?

A plumbing snake is a flexible, coiled cable that you insert into a drain to manually break up or hook clogs. It’s kind of like a plumber’s fishing rod — but way more satisfying. 🎣

There are a few types:

• Hand-crank drain snake – Best for sinks, tubs, and light clogs
• Motorized drain auger – Ideal for tougher or deeper blockages
• Toilet auger – Designed to safely clear toilet clogs without scratching the bowl
• Drum auger – Popular for homeowners and professionals alike

🛠️ What You’ll Need

• A drain snake (manual or powered)
• A bucket or towels 🧻
• Gloves 🧤 (trust us)
• A flashlight 🔦
• Pipe wrench (optional, for trap removal)
• Cleaning wipes or spray for post-snake cleanup

✅ Step-by-Step: How to Snake a Drain Like a Pro

🛁 For Sinks, Tubs, and Showers

1. Clear the area
   Remove anything under or around the sink or tub. Place towels and a bucket nearby — things might get messy. 💦

2. Remove the drain cover or stopper
   Use a screwdriver or simply lift it out. If it’s stuck or grimy, this is your chance to clean it.

3. Insert the snake slowly into the drain
   Push gently while turning the handle clockwise. You’ll feel resistance when you hit the clog — don’t force it! Let the snake do the work.

4. Rotate and push to break up the clog
   Keep rotating slowly. The coil will either push through the blockage or catch it.

5. Pull the snake back out
   Once you feel the blockage give, retract the snake while continuing to turn. Be ready — it may come out with hair, sludge, or worse. 🤢

6. Flush the drain
   Run hot water for a few minutes to clear any remaining debris.

🚽 For Toilets (Use a Toilet Auger)

Toilets require a specialized auger to avoid damaging the porcelain or trap.

• Insert the auger into the bowl, angling toward the drain hole
• Crank the handle while gently pushing forward
• If resistance eases, you’ve broken the clog
• Pull out slowly and flush to test

⚠️ Don’t use a standard snake on a toilet — it can scratch or crack the bowl!

⚠️ What Not to Do When Snaking a Drain

Avoid these common (and costly) mistakes:

• ❌ Forcing the snake — this can kink the cable or damage your pipes
• ❌ Skipping gloves — what's down there will come back up
• ❌ Snaking the wrong drain — identify where the clog is first
• ❌ Using a snake after chemical drain cleaners — dangerous splashback risk

🧼 After the Snake: Clean Up Tips

Once your drain is clear:

• Sanitize the snake before putting it away 🧴
• Clean your work area and wash your hands
• Run hot water and dish soap through the drain
• Add a little baking soda + vinegar if there's lingering odor

📞 When Snaking Doesn’t Work, Call Dr. Pipes

If your clog:

• Comes back again and again
• Won’t budge with a snake
• Is causing backups in multiple fixtures
• Includes gurgling, bubbling, or sewage smells

…it’s likely deeper in your plumbing system — and that’s where Dr. Pipes Plumbing comes in.

We offer:

• 🌀 Professional auger and hydro jetting
• 📷 Drain camera inspections
• 🚫 Safe removal of roots, grease, and major blockages
• 🚽 Repairs to pipes and traps

✅ Conclusion: Clogs Don’t Stand a Chance

Using a drain snake is one of the most effective ways to clear a tough clog — without damaging your pipes or dumping chemicals down your drain.

With the right technique and a little patience, you’ll save time, money, and frustration. And if it’s beyond DIY? You know who to call.

📞 Need Help With a Stubborn Clog?

Call 1-877-DRPIPES (1-877-377-4737) and we’ll get things flowing again — fast. 🚀

From kitchen sinks to main lines, no blockage is too tough for Dr. Pipes. 💪

Dr. Pipes Plumbing — Trusted Tools, Clean Pipes, Happy Homes.