How to Use a Snake to Unclog a Drain: 10 Step-by-Step Instructions

Unclogging a drain can be a challenging task, but with the right tools and step-by-step instructions, it becomes an achievable feat. Learning how to use a snake to unclog a drain is an essential skill for homeowners and DIY enthusiasts alike.

In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of using a drain snake, the necessary safety measures, and how to avoid future clogs in your drains.

10 step-by-step instructions for using a snake to unclog a drain

Step 1: Gather the necessary tools and equipment

Before starting, ensure you have the following items: a drain snake (also known as a plumber’s snake), rubber gloves, a bucket, and a flashlight. These tools will help make the unclogging process easier and more effective.

Step 2: Prepare the area

Clear the space around the clogged drain and remove any items that may hinder your access. This will provide you with ample room to work and prevent any potential accidents or damage.

Step 3: Put on protective gear

Wearing rubber gloves is essential to protect your hands from any potentially harmful substances or bacteria that may be present in the drain. Safety should always be a priority during this process.

Step 4: Inspect the drain

Use a flashlight to inspect the drain opening. Look for any visible debris or objects that may be causing the clog. If you spot anything, try removing it using a pair of tongs or tweezers before proceeding.

Step 5: Insert the drain snake

Carefully insert the head of the snake into the drain opening. Slowly push it in until you encounter resistance. This resistance indicates that the snake has reached the clog.

Step 6: Rotate and push

Once the snake is in place, rotate the handle clockwise as you gently push it further into the drain. The rotating motion helps the snake grab onto the clog and break it apart, allowing it to move through the pipe.

Step 7: Apply steady pressure

As you continue rotating and pushing the snake, apply steady pressure. Avoid using excessive force, as this can damage the plumbing. The goal is to slowly dislodge and break up the clog.

Step 8: Withdraw the snake

Once you feel the snake has caught onto the clog and broken it apart, carefully withdraw the snake from the drain. Be cautious not to pull too abruptly, as this could cause the clog to become stuck again.

Step 9: Flush the drain

After removing the snake, turn on hot water and let it run for a few minutes to flush out any remaining debris or residue. This helps ensure that the drain is fully clear and functioning properly.

Step 10: Clean and store the snake

Clean the drain snake thoroughly with hot water and disinfectant. Once dry, coil it up and store it in a safe place for future use. Proper maintenance and storage will help prolong the lifespan of your drain snake.

What else would you need to unclog a drain with a snake?

To unclog a drain with a snake, you will primarily need the following additional items:

Plunger: A plunger can be used to create suction and dislodge minor clogs before resorting to a drain snake. It is a handy tool to have for initial attempts at clearing the drain.
Tongs or tweezers: These tools can be useful for removing any visible debris or objects from the drain before using the snake. They help create a clearer pathway for the snake to navigate through the pipe.

Disinfectant or cleaning solution: After the unclogging process, it is important to clean and disinfect the drain snake to prevent any lingering bacteria or odors. Having a suitable cleaning solution on hand will ensure proper hygiene.
Hot water: Flushing the drain with hot water after using the snake helps clear out any remaining debris and ensures that the drain is fully unclogged. Make sure you have a reliable source of hot water nearby.

How do you get ready to snake a drain?

Gather the necessary tools: Collect the tools and equipment required for snaking a drain, including a drain snake (plumber’s snake), rubber gloves, a bucket, and a flashlight. Having these items on hand will make the process more efficient.

Clear the area: Remove any objects or obstacles near the clogged drain that may hinder your access. This includes items stored under the sink or around the drain opening. Clearing the area will provide you with ample space to work.
Put on protective gear: Wear rubber gloves to protect your hands from any harmful substances or bacteria that may be present in the drain. This is an important safety measure to prevent any potential skin irritation or contamination.
Inspect the drain: Use a flashlight to visually inspect the drain opening. Look for any visible debris or objects that may be causing the clog. If you spot anything, try removing it using tongs or tweezers before proceeding with the snake.

Prepare the snake: Extend the snake fully and ensure that it is in good condition without any kinks or damage. If necessary, lubricate the snake with a small amount of dish soap or plumber’s lubricant to help it glide smoothly through the pipe.
Position yourself: Stand or kneel near the drain opening to have easy access to the clogged pipe. Ensure you have a clear line of sight and enough room to maneuver the snake comfortably.

How do I insert and navigate the snake in the drain?

To insert and navigate the snake in the drain, follow these steps:

Insert the snake: Carefully insert the head of the snake into the drain opening. Start by guiding it straight into the pipe, applying gentle pressure. Use a twisting motion if needed to help the snake maneuver around any bends or obstacles in the pipe.
Push the snake further: Slowly push the snake further into the drain until you encounter resistance. This resistance indicates that the snake has reached the clog. Avoid pushing too forcefully, as it may cause damage to the plumbing.
Rotate the snake: Once the snake is in place, begin rotating the handle clockwise. The rotating motion helps the snake grab onto the clog and break it apart. It also allows the snake to navigate through the pipe more effectively.

Apply steady pressure: As you continue rotating the snake, apply steady pressure to push it deeper into the drain. It’s important to maintain a consistent and controlled force without using excessive strength. This helps dislodge and break up the clog.
Adjust the snake as needed: If you encounter resistance or feel the snake getting stuck, you may need to adjust its position. Gently pull it back a little and then push it forward again, using a combination of rotating and pushing motions to navigate around the clog.
Withdraw the snake: Once you feel the snake has caught onto the clog and broken it apart, carefully withdraw the snake from the drain. Slowly and steadily pull it out, being cautious not to pull too abruptly, as this could cause the clog to become stuck again.

How to break up or retrieve the clog?

Rotate and push: Once the snake is inserted into the drain and you encounter the clog, continue rotating the handle clockwise while gently pushing the snake further into the drain. The rotating motion helps grab onto the clog and break it apart. Apply steady pressure, but avoid using excessive force to prevent any damage to the plumbing.
Alternate between pushing and pulling: If the clog is stubborn and not easily broken up, try alternating between gently pushing and pulling the snake. This back-and-forth motion can help dislodge the clog and create more space for the snake to navigate through the pipe.
Maintain steady pressure: As you continue rotating and maneuvering the snake, maintain steady pressure to keep it engaged with the clog. Be patient, as breaking up the clog may take some time and effort.

Retrieve the clog (if possible): If you feel that the clog has been broken up or dislodged, carefully withdraw the snake from the drain. As you pull it out, the broken pieces of the clog may come out with the snake. Be cautious not to pull too abruptly to avoid causing the clog to get stuck again.
Flush the drain: After removing the snake, turn on hot water and let it run for a few minutes to flush out any remaining debris or residue. This helps ensure that the drain is fully clear. You can also use a plunger to create suction and further dislodge any remaining debris.

What are the safety measures when using a drain snake?

When using a drain snake, it is important to follow these safety measures to ensure your well-being and prevent any potential accidents or damage.

Always wear rubber gloves to protect your hands from harmful substances or bacteria present in the drain.

Also, be cautious not to apply excessive force when inserting or maneuvering the snake to avoid damaging the plumbing.

Avoid using a drain snake if you have recently used chemical drain cleaners, as they can react with the snake and cause hazardous fumes.

Never mix different chemical drain cleaners together.

And finally, if you are unsure or encounter significant resistance, it is best to seek professional assistance from a plumber.

How do I clean up after snaking the drain?

Dispose of debris: After removing the snake from the drain, dispose of any debris or residue that may have come out with it. Use gloves or tongs to handle the waste and place it in a sealed bag or trash container.

Flush with hot water: Turn on hot water and let it run for a few minutes to flush out any remaining debris or residue in the drain. This helps ensure that the drain is thoroughly cleared and clean.
Clean the surrounding area: Wipe down the drain opening, sink, and surrounding surfaces with a disinfectant cleaner or a mixture of water and mild detergent. Pay attention to any splatters or spills that may have occurred during the snaking process.
Wash hands and tools: After completing the cleanup, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water to maintain proper hygiene. Clean any tools you used, such as tongs or gloves, following the manufacturer’s instructions or by washing them with soap and water.

Are all drain snakes the same?

Not all drain snakes are the same. Drain snakes come in various types and sizes, each designed for specific purposes.

The most common types include handheld augers, toilet augers, and motorized drain snakes.

Handheld augers are versatile and suitable for most household drains, while toilet augers are specifically designed for unclogging toilets.

Motorized drain snakes, on the other hand, are powered tools that can handle larger and more stubborn clogs.

Drain snakes can vary in terms of length and thickness, allowing them to accommodate different pipe sizes and reach varying depths within the plumbing system.

What if snaking doesn’t work?

If snaking doesn’t work to unclog a drain, there are a few additional steps you can take:

Try using a plunger: Use a plunger to create suction and try to dislodge the clog. Ensure there is enough water in the sink or tub to cover the plunger’s cup. Position the plunger over the drain and vigorously plunge up and down several times. This can help break apart the clog or create enough pressure to move it through the pipe.
Use a chemical drain cleaner: If plunging and snaking have not been successful, you may consider using a chemical drain cleaner. Follow the instructions on the product carefully and use caution, as these cleaners contain powerful chemicals. Be aware that they can be harmful to pipes or fixtures if used improperly or too frequently.
Call a professional plumber: If the clog persists and you have exhausted your options, it is advisable to call a professional plumber. Plumbers have specialized equipment and expertise to handle more complex clogs and can provide a reliable and effective solution.

How do you avoid future clogs in your drains?

Use a drain strainer or stopper to catch hair, food particles, and other debris before they enter the drain.
Avoid pouring grease, oil, or fat down the drain, as they can solidify and cause blockages.
Dispose of food scraps properly by throwing them in the trash or composting them instead of putting them down the kitchen sink.

Run hot water down the drain after each use to help flush away any residue.
Regularly clean your drains using a mixture of baking soda and vinegar or a commercial drain cleaner.
Avoid flushing items like cotton balls, paper towels, sanitary products, and baby wipes down the toilet. Only flush toilet paper.

Consider using a hair catcher in the shower or bathtub to prevent hair from clogging the drain.
Be cautious with what you put in your garbage disposal. Avoid putting fibrous or starchy foods, bones, or large amounts of food at once.
If you have trees or shrubs near your sewer lines, make sure their roots don’t infiltrate the pipes. Regularly inspect and trim any plant roots that might cause issues.