Yes — using a zip-it (also called a drain snake or hair clog remover) is one of the easiest and most effective DIY fixes a homeowner can tackle. For a straightforward hair blockage in a bathroom basin, shower, or bath drain, you don't need a licensed tradesperson, and the whole job usually takes under 15 minutes.
What Is a Zip-It Tool?
A zip-it tool is a long, flexible plastic strip with barbed teeth along its edges. You insert it into the drain, twist and wiggle it around, then pull it back out — the barbs grab onto hair and gunk, dragging the clog out with it. They're inexpensive, reusable (with a good rinse), and available at most NZ hardware stores including Bunnings and Mitre 10.
What You'll Need
- A zip-it or flexible drain cleaning tool
- Rubber gloves (highly recommended — it gets unpleasant)
- Old newspaper or a plastic bag to dispose of the hair
- A torch (optional, but helpful)
- A bucket or old towels to protect the floor
Step-by-Step: Clearing a Hair Clog
1. Remove the drain cover
Most bathroom drain covers simply lift off or unscrew with a flat-head screwdriver. Set it aside somewhere safe.
2. Insert the zip-it tool
Slide the tool slowly into the drain opening. Don't force it — guide it gently down and around any bends. Most zip-it tools reach 50–60 cm, which is enough for the trap and the first section of pipe where hair typically collects.
3. Rotate and pull
Twist the tool as you push it in, then slowly pull it back out. The barbs will catch hair and soap scum. Expect it to look (and smell) pretty grim — that's normal.
4. Dispose of the debris
Drop the pulled-out gunk straight onto newspaper or into a bag and bin it. Don't flush it — it'll just cause another blockage.
5. Repeat if needed
Run the tool through two or three times until it comes out relatively clean.
6. Flush with hot water
Replace the drain cover and run hot water for a minute or two to flush any remaining residue through the pipe.
Tips for Best Results
- Don't use chemical drain cleaners first. If you've already poured caustic drain cleaner down the drain, wait and flush thoroughly before using the zip-it — you don't want splashback on your skin.
- Hair clogs in showers are the most common use case and respond very well to this method.
- Avoid using the tool on older cast-iron or clay pipes if you're unsure of their condition — check with a plumber if your home is pre-1970s and you're not sure what the pipes are made of.
- A drain strainer or hair catcher fitted over the drain after clearing it will dramatically reduce future blockages. These are cheap and widely available.
Is This Restricted Work Under NZ Law?
No — using a zip-it tool to clear a hair clog is not restricted work under New Zealand law. You're simply clearing a blockage, not modifying or installing any plumbing. Restricted plumbing work (such as connecting or altering pipes, installing fixtures, or working on sanitary drains) must be carried out by a licensed tradesperson registered with the Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Board (PGDB). For a simple hair clog, you're well within your rights to DIY.
Safety Note
Always wear rubber gloves — drains harbour bacteria. If you've used any chemical drain cleaner, protect your eyes with safety glasses too, as splashback can cause serious irritation or injury. Keep children and pets out of the bathroom while you work. Refer to WorkSafe NZ guidance if you're handling any chemical products.
When the Zip-It Doesn't Work
If you've run the tool through several times and the drain is still slow or completely blocked, the problem may be further down the line — beyond the reach of a zip-it. Possible causes include:
| Issue | Likely location | Action needed |
|---|---|---|
| Partial blockage remains | Trap or first pipe section | Try a manual drain auger (longer reach) |
| Grease/soap build-up | Further along the pipe | Enzyme-based drain cleaner or professional jetting |
| Root intrusion or pipe damage | Outdoor drain or main line | Licensed drainlayer required |
| Venting issue | Vent stack | Licensed plumber required |
For persistent or recurring blockages, it's worth having a licensed drain cleaner or plumber carry out a CCTV drain inspection to identify the root cause.
When to Call a Professional
Call a qualified drain cleaner or plumber if:
- Multiple drains in your home are slow or blocked at the same time (this suggests a main drain issue)
- You can hear gurgling from other fixtures when you flush or drain water
- There is sewage smell coming from drains or outside your home
- The blockage keeps coming back within a few weeks
- You notice water pooling around your outdoor drain or in the yard
These signs can point to issues with your main sanitary drain or sewer connection — work that must be done by a licensed drainlayer under the PGDB. You can find qualified local drain cleaners and plumbers on tradedirectory.co.nz.
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