I tried one of those zip-it things a couple months back when my tub was draining super slow. It definitely pulled up a disgusting amount of hair and soap gunk, but I’m not sure it would help if the clog was further down the pipe. Mine was just past the stopper area, so it worked out, but if the blockage is deeper, does that mean you’d have to go straight to a snake? Or maybe there’s something else in between?
Also, does anyone ever worry about scratching up the pipes with those plastic tools? They seem pretty flimsy, but I’ve heard mixed things about using them too often. Just curious if people have actually had any issues or if that’s just internet paranoia...
Yeah, I’ve used those zip-it things too—super gross but effective for surface clogs. If it’s deeper, I usually try a mix of baking soda and vinegar before reaching for a snake. Haven’t noticed any pipe damage from the plastic tools, honestly. They’re pretty soft, so I think the risk is overblown unless you’re really rough with them.
I tried the baking soda and vinegar trick last month when my tub was draining super slow. It fizzed a lot but honestly didn’t do much for me—maybe my clog was just too stubborn? Ended up using one of those plastic zip things and yeah, it was gross but worked. I get what you mean about pipe damage, though. I was a little worried at first but they seem pretty harmless unless you go wild with them.
Ended up using one of those plastic zip things and yeah, it was gross but worked.
Those zip tools are weirdly satisfying, right? I always wonder if they’re safe long-term—like, could they scratch up older pipes? Ever tried a wet/dry vac for clogs? I’ve heard mixed things, but curious if it’s gentler than snaking.
WHEN YOUR TUB WON'T DRAIN: DIY FIXES THAT ACTUALLY WORK?
Those plastic zip tools definitely get the job done, but I’ve seen my fair share of issues with them over the years. They’re fine for newer PVC pipes—no real risk there as long as you’re not jamming them in like you’re digging for gold. With older metal pipes, though, I’ve seen folks scratch up the inside if they get too enthusiastic. Usually it’s just minor scuffing, but if your plumbing’s already corroded or fragile, I’d be careful. Not saying they’re dangerous, just worth being gentle.
As for wet/dry vacs... mixed bag. I’ve used them a couple times when nothing else was working and didn’t want to start taking apart the trap. Sometimes you’ll get lucky and suck out a hairball or whatever’s causing the backup, but other times it’s just noise and frustration. It’s gentler than a snake, sure—no scraping or pushing things deeper—but it doesn’t always have enough oomph to clear tougher clogs. Also, it can get messy if you’re not prepared for what might come flying back at you.
Personally, I still lean toward a manual snake for stubborn blockages. The basic hand-crank ones give good control and don’t do much damage unless you really force them. Chemical drain cleaners are another story—I avoid those unless it’s an absolute last resort because they can eat away at your pipes over time.
One time I tried using a wet/dry vac on a friend’s tub clog, thinking it’d be less hassle than snaking. Ended up with half the bathroom floor wet and only managed to pull up some gunk that smelled like death warmed over. Still had to go in with the snake after all that.
Long story short: zip tools are handy in moderation, vacs are hit-or-miss (and messy), snakes work best if you’re careful, and chemicals should be avoided if possible. Just my two cents after wrestling with more drains than I care to remember...