Drain cleaning spiral Rothenberger 16 mm x 2.3 m S-SMK – flexible cable for blockages

The Rothenberger 16 mm x 2.3 m S-SMK drain cleaning spiral is a flexible cable designed to remove common blockages in domestic and light professional drainage systems. The 16 mm diameter cable and 2.3 m length allow access into sinks, washbasins, bathtub and shower drains, and short sections of household pipework where hair, grease and small debris accumulate. The spiral construction provides mechanical scraping action that loosens obstructions and restores flow without relying on aggressive chemicals.

Advantages

The flexible S-SMK cable is compact and easy to handle, enabling targeted cleaning in confined drain openings. Its spiral profile improves gripping and cutting of hair and fibrous material, while the solid construction resists kinking during operation. The tool is suitable for repeated use, reducing the frequency of chemical drain cleaners and lowering maintenance costs. Its length and diameter strike a balance between accessibility and sufficient torque transfer for effective blockage removal.

Suitable for

• Clearing hair and soap buildup from bathroom sinks, showers and bathtubs
• Removing grease and light debris from kitchen sinks
• Routine maintenance of household drain lines
• Light professional use by plumbers for short, accessible pipe sections

Key specifications

• Cable diameter: 16 mm
• Cable length: 2.3 m
• Construction: flexible spiral steel cable
• Intended use: mechanical drain cleaning for domestic and light professional applications
• Compatibility: suitable for standard sink, shower and bathtub drain openings

How to use

Insert the spiral cable into the drain opening and advance it gently until resistance indicates the blockage. Rotate the cable while applying light forward pressure to engage the obstruction; the spiral profile will catch hair and debris. Once the blockage is broken up or captured, withdraw the cable slowly, removing loosened material. Rinse the drain with water to confirm restored flow. For persistent blockages, repeat the process or combine with non-corrosive cleaning methods as needed. Observe basic safety measures such as wearing gloves and eye protection when working with drain tools.

Recommendations

Use the Rothenberger S-SMK spiral for routine, mechanical cleaning of short and accessible drain runs. Avoid forcing the cable into very narrow or heavily corroded pipes. Do not use the cable as a replacement for motorised drain machines on long or severely blocked lines. After use, clean and dry the cable before storage to prolong service life.