Slow draining is usually caused by blockage from the build-up of some “ Anti- draining” items in your drain, such as dirt, soap residue, hair, and sand. The list goes on. However, out of this long list, the most peculiar of them is Sand.
Sand has a grainy texture that can be rough, pebbly, or smooth in form. This grainy nature makes it easy for it to get into your bathtub drain as it is not restricted by the strainer that prevents objects from falling into the drain.
When this happens, it’s usually not something very easy to deal with because people come and go bringing sand particles from their feet or from disposing of dirty mop water in the tub. But we shall discuss simple methods on how you can get sand out of your bathtub.
Summary – Get rid of sand from your bathtub drains easily using homemade cleaners like vinegar and baking soda. You can also use effective cleaning tools like a plunger and drain snake for better results.
How do You Remove Sand From Your Bathtub?
Getting sand out of your bathtub may not be a fun or easy activity. But we will look at simple methods, steps, and tools that will help you get rid of them without stress.
We’ll begin with the homemade drain cleaner with ingredients that can be found in most homes.
Hot water, Vinegar, and Baking Soda Method
When baking soda and vinegar combine, they generate a chemical reaction that helps deodorize and remove dirt from drains. They also serve as a disinfectant to protect your drain from harmful bacteria that may be lurking around. Follow the steps below to use this method.
Precaution: Make sure to wear a protective glove and mask when doing this.
- Start by removing the strainer and completely remove the water in the bathtub.
- Then, pour into the drain a cup of hot water. The steam loosens the sand.
- Now, mix half a cup of baking soda with a cup of vinegar.
- Pour the mixture down the drain. The acid in the vinegar reacts with the sand grains, which creates a fizzy as it dissolves.
- Leave for 15 minutes and ensure the fizzing has stopped.
- Test the drain by pouring water into it to confirm if it runs freely. If not, add boiling water again.
This method is not only stress-free, it is also fast and protects your environment and plumbing system.
Plunger Method
This is the most common way to get sand or any kind of dirt out of a bathtub drain. A plunger is an effective tool for clearing drains and pipes. It is made up of a rubber suction cup attached to a stick. When pressed down, it forces air down the drain and creates pressure. Pulling it out creates a vacuum and forces out anything in the pipe.
Here’s how to use a plunger to remove sand from your bathtub drain.
- Remove the strainer and place the plunger cup over the drain.
- Grip the handle with both hands and thrust the plunger for at least 20 seconds. This should suck in all the sand.
- Pour a bucket of water down the drain to confirm if the water flows freely.
- If the water isn’t draining, repeat the process or pour in hot water to loosen the sand.
Quick Tip: If you don’t have a plunger and can’t get one as of the time of need, you can use a wire hanger. Curve the hanger into a U-shape and insert it into the drain.
Cable Auger
A cable auger, also known as a plumber or drain snake, is a tool used to remove things that indicate an obstruction – a clog. it is a long and flexible metal with a small uncoiled spring and a handle.
To use the cable auger to remove sand from your bathtub drain;
- Cover the surrounding of your drain with towels. This will prevent damage to your tub if you accidentally drop your tool.
- Then, Remove the strainer from your bathtub drain.
- Insert the auger cable into the drain as much as you can go (do not force the auger into the drain).
- Now, Begin uncoiling. You should do this slowly. Feed the cable into the drain while rotating clockwise; if you feel an obstruction during the process, you most likely have come across the blockage source, which may be a build-up of sand.
- Rotate the handle anti-clockwise to pull out the obstruction (the build-up of sand).
- Repeat the process until there is no more residue to pull out.
- Pour water down the drain to see if the drain is clear. If not, you should pour hot water to help soften and loosen the clog.
If your drain is still filled with sand and clogged after using any of these methods, we advise you seek professional help from a plumber.
FAQs On How to Get Sand Out of a Bathtub Drain
Should I clean my drains regularly to prevent blockages?
Regular cleaning of drains is highly recommended to prevent blockages off your drain. You may choose once or twice a month to clean and reduce the chances of a clogged drain.
Why do You Need to Keep Sand Away From Your Bathtub Drain?
If sand is clogging your drain, it will reduce the amount of water flowing down the drain. This leads to stagnant water and can cause various problems, such as an unpleasant odor, mold, mosquitoes, cockroaches, and ants infestation.
