I Returned From Vacation to Find a "Snake" in My Bathtub—The Truth Was Even More Shocking

Could it actually have been a snake?

Yes, it could have. Snakes do occasionally find their way into bathtubs—they're attracted to moisture and can climb up drain pipes or come in through open windows. If you live in an area with snakes, always check before reaching into a dark tub.

What should I do if I find a real snake in my bathtub?

Don't panic. Most snakes are harmless and more scared of you than you are of them. Open a window or door to give it an escape route. If it's venomous or you're unsure, call animal control or a wildlife removal service. Do not try to handle it yourself.

How can I prevent snakes from entering my home?

Seal gaps around pipes and doors. Keep vegetation away from your foundation. Install mesh screens over drain vents. And if you have a recurring problem, consider having a professional inspect your home for entry points.

Was the rubber snake actually a safety hazard?

No, but leaving tools in a tenant's home without notice is unprofessional. My landlord apologized and now texts me before any entry (even emergencies).

What's the strangest thing you've found in a bathtub?

I once found a live frog. Another time, a friend found a family of mice that had fallen in and couldn't climb the smooth sides. The "snake" was definitely the strangest, though.

A Final, Humble Thought

I almost called 911. I almost posted a panicked "SOMEONE HELP" message on my neighborhood Facebook group. I almost spent an hour googling "how to identify venomous snakes in my area" while cowering in my living room.

Instead, I took a breath. I got closer. And I realized that the scariest things in life are often the most mundane.

That rubber snake taught me something important: fear makes us see monsters where there are only misunderstandings. The thing that terrifies you at first glance is often just a tool, a trick of the light, or a story you haven't heard yet.

And sometimes? Sometimes it's a warning sign from your plumbing that saves you from a much bigger disaster.

So next time you come home to something strange in your bathtub, don't scream first. Take a photo. Ask questions. And maybe—just maybe—you'll get a good story and a month of free rent out of it.

Now if you'll excuse me, I need to go thank my landlord for the "snake."

And buy a nightlight for the bathroom.

Have you ever been terrified by something completely harmless? A coat on a chair? A shadow in the hallway? A rubber snake in your bathtub? Tell me your "I can't believe I screamed at that" story in the comments. I promise I won't laugh. Okay, I might laugh. But lovingly. 🐍