How to Use a Drain Snake (Auger) to Clear a Clogged Drain
When a plunger fails, a drain snake (also called a drain auger or drain coil) is the tool that clears it. It reaches deep into UK pipework to physically grab hair, soap scum and debris that a plunger can't shift. This guide shows you exactly how to use one, when to reach for it, and how to avoid damaging your pipes.
What a Drain Snake Does
A drain snake is a flexible coiled metal cable with a corkscrew end, designed to navigate the bends of UK 32mm and 40mm waste pipes:
- Physical retrieval: The coiled tip grabs hair clogs so they can be pulled out.
- Deep reach: Domestic snakes typically offer 3 to 7.5 metres of reach.
- Bypasses traps: Flexible enough to navigate the P or S trap under your sink.
Drain Snake vs Drain Auger: What's the Difference?
The terms are often used interchangeably, but there's a real distinction worth knowing before you buy:
| Tool | Best For | Cable |
|---|---|---|
| Drain snake / coil | Hair & soap scum in sinks, baths, showers | Lighter, flexible — navigates narrow traps |
| Drain auger | Tougher, compacted blockages | Heavier, stiffer, often with a cutting tip |
For the vast majority of household clogs — a slow bathroom sink or a hair-blocked shower — a hand snake or coil is all you need.
When to Use a Drain Snake
Reach for a snake when the clog is beyond a plunger or the immediate U-bend. First, though, try a sink plunger and check the trap — most UK blockages are right there.
⚠️ Safety First
- Wear gloves and goggles. Drain water is dirty and the cable can flick back.
- Never snake after chemical drain cleaner. If cleaner is still in the pipe, a splash from the cable can cause serious skin or eye burns. Clear standing chemical water first.
How to Use a Drain Snake (Step by Step)
Initial Insertion
Slowly feed the end of the coil into the drain. If the sink has a fixed grate, remove the U-bend trap underneath and feed the coil directly into the wall pipe.
Navigate the Bends
Turn the handle clockwise while applying gentle forward pressure to guide the tip through the bends. You'll feel resistance at the trap — that's normal and not the clog itself.
Hook the Material
When the cable hits a soft, mushy obstruction, keep turning the handle. The corkscrew end winds itself into the hair or debris.
Slow Withdrawal
Pull the cable back slowly with a bin bag ready to catch the hair and scum. Flush with hot water to confirm the pipe is clear.
Where to Buy a Drain Snake in the UK
Domestic drain coils are inexpensive and invaluable for hair-prone bathroom drains. Genuine Rothenberger tools offer better flexibility and durability.
| Retailer | Stock Status | Product Type | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Screwfix | In Stock | Drain cleaning coils | View at Screwfix |
| Toolstation | Available | Drain augers & snakes | Check Toolstation |
💡 Pro Tips for Better Results
- Check the U-bend first: Most UK blockages sit in the trap. Always check and clean the U-bend before using a long snake.
- Don't force it: If the coil jams, rotate anti-clockwise to back it out. Forcing it can crack plastic pipe joints.
- Wipe as you go: Use an old rag to wipe the cable clean as you withdraw it, to avoid mess on the floor.
- Prevent a repeat: Fit a hair catcher over shower and bath drains — it's the easiest way to stop the clog coming back.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between a drain snake and a drain auger?
A drain snake is a lighter, flexible cable for soft blockages like hair in narrow drains. A drain auger is heavier and stiffer, often with a cutting tip, for tougher blockages. For most household clogs, a hand snake or coil is all you need.
How do I use a drain snake to clear a hair clog?
Feed the cable in slowly, turn the handle clockwise with gentle pressure to pass the trap, then keep turning when you hit the clog so the tip winds into the hair. Withdraw slowly and flush with hot water.
Can a drain snake damage pipes?
Only if forced. Pushing hard against resistance can crack plastic joints. If it jams, back it out anti-clockwise rather than shoving forward. Gentle, steady pressure is safe.
Should I use a drain snake after chemical drain cleaner?
Avoid it. Leftover cleaner can splash off the cable and cause skin or eye burns. Wear gloves and goggles, and clear standing chemical water first.
How long a drain snake do I need for a home?
For domestic sinks, baths and showers, 3–7.5 metres of reach is plenty. Longer motorised augers are only needed for main-stack or drain-run blockages — usually a job for a professional.
What if the snake won't reach the blockage?
The clog may be in the main soil stack or an external gully. At that point it's a job for a drainage professional with rods or a powered machine.