Are you online asking Google “how do I unclog my shower drain?”
Whether it’s caused by hair, soap scum, or other debris, a slow-draining or completely blocked shower is something that every homeowner will likely deal with at some point.
And there’s good news! Most of these clogs can be fixed without professional help! In the following, we’ll walk you through the process of unclogging a clogged shower drain.
Step-by-Step Guide to Unclogging a Shower Drain
Step 1: Remove the Drain Cover
Start by removing the drain cover. Use a screwdriver if needed—just be careful not to damage the cover or surrounding tiles. Once it’s off, you’ll have direct access to the drain opening. Keep an eye out for hair or visible debris that you might be able to remove manually.
Step 2: Pour Baking Soda into the Drain
Take about ½ cup of baking soda and pour it directly into the drain. Baking soda is a reliable (and safe) cleaning agent that can help break up residues lining the drain.
Step 3: Add Vinegar for a Fizzing Reaction
Quickly follow up with 1 cup of white vinegar. When combined with baking soda, vinegar creates a fizzing reaction that helps break down blockages. Cover the drain with a stopper or plug to keep the reaction concentrated within the pipe.
Step 4: Give It Time to Work
Leave the mixture to sit in the drain for at least 30 minutes to an hour. This gives the fizz enough time to dissolve any buildup.
Step 5: Flush with Hot Water
After letting the baking soda and vinegar do their job, run hot water down the drain. This final step helps flush away any dissolved debris, leaving your drain clear and clean.
Alternative Methods to Try
If the baking soda and vinegar solution doesn’t clear the clog, the following are a few additional methods to try before giving us a call:
1. Use a Plunger
Place a plunger securely over the drain and plunge up and down several times with some force. The suction can dislodge stubborn clogs deeper within the pipe.
2. Try a Drain Snake
For clogs that are out of reach, use a plumber’s snake. Feed the snake into the drain while rotating it and pull it back to break up or remove the blockage. If you don’t own a drain snake, they’re easy to find at most hardware stores and are an excellent addition to your DIY tool kit.
3. Manual Removal
If the obstruction is close to the drain opening and visible, you may be able to remove it manually. Use your fingers or a small pair of pliers to pull out hair or debris. Gloves are also highly recommended for this step.
Prevent Future Clogs
Keeping your shower drain clog-free doesn’t have to be a challenge. With regular maintenance and a few preventative measures, you can avoid dealing with a blocked drain in the future. Here’s how:
1. Use a Drain Cover or Strainer
One of the simplest ways to stop clogs before they start is by using a drain cover or strainer. These inexpensive tools catch hair, soap residue, and debris before they enter the drain, making cleanup a breeze.
Pro Tip: Clean your drain cover or strainer weekly to prevent buildup.
2. Flush Your Drain Regularly
Hot water is your best friend when it comes to keeping your drain clear. Once a week, pour a pot of boiling water down your drain to help dissolve soap scum, grease, and minor buildups.
For an added boost:
- Pour ½ cup of baking soda followed by ½ cup of vinegar down the drain.
- Let the mixture sit for 15 minutes, then flush with hot water.
3. Avoid Dumping Problematic Substances
Be mindful of what goes down your shower drain. Avoid flushing the following down your drain:
- Large amounts of hair
- Oils or grease from bath products
- Excess soap scum
Encourage family members to brush their hair before showering to minimize the amount of hair entering the drain.
4. Clean the Drain Monthly
Take time each month to give your drain a quick clean:
- Remove the drain cover and check for any visible debris.
- Use a plumber’s snake or long brush to remove buildup if needed.
This regular maintenance can prevent small clogs from becoming bigger issues.
5. Be Proactive After Each Shower
After showering, let hot water run for 30 seconds to flush away any remaining soap or residue. This quick step can go a long way in preventing clogs.
Still Need Help? Five Star Home Services is Here for You!
If you’ve tried everything and your shower drain is still clogged, your local plumbing experts at Five Star Home Services are just a call away. Serving homeowners in Greater Columbus, Greater Dayton, and Greater Cincinnati, we specialize in tackling even the toughest drain blockages. Remember, we are always here to help! We are here to serve! And we believe you shouldn’t have to wait.
Five Star service is just a phone call away!
Call us today at (833) 405-8009 to schedule an appointment and keep your home plumbing running smoothly.
