How to Unblock a Shower Drain Without Chemicals
If you’ve ever had the misfortune of taking a shower only to find that the water doesn’t drain then you’ll be aware of how frustrating it is. It’s not just slowing down your morning routine, but it can also be harder to clean up after you’re finished. Although chemical drain cleaners can be occasionally effective, they can also damage your pipes and damage the environment. The positive side is the fact that you have a lot of ways that you can unblock the shower drain without resorting to harmful chemicals.
Key Takeaways
- Chemical drain cleaners may harm pipes as well as the environment.
- There are a variety of natural ways to unblock the drain of a shower by using vinegar and baking soda, a wire hanger, or a dry/wet vacuum.
- To make use of baking soda and vinegar method: Gather materials, take off the drain cover and any debris, then pour baking soda, followed by vinegar. Wait for 30 minutes, then flush with boiling water.
- Wire hanger method Straighten the wire hanger and leave the other end in its original shape Create a hook at the end and insert it down the drain and let it catch hair and debris out.
- Method for wet/dry vacuums: set vacuum to "wet" mode then cover the drains of overflow by a cloth or tape, join the hose and create an airtight seal then turn on the vacuum for three minutes.
- Avoid future blockages by using hair strainers in your shower. Run hot water after every usage and avoiding running grease down your drains.
Method 1 Method 1: Making a cake with baking Soda and Vinegar
Step 1. Gather Your Materials
To begin you can gather the following items:
- Baking soda
- White vinegar
- Boiling water
- Rubber gloves (optional)
- A rag or cloth
Step 2: Clean the Drain
Remove the shower drain cover If you can, and then use a small brush or brush to clean the hairs or any other obstruction around the drain’s edges. Wear rubber gloves, if needed.
Step 3. Pour in Baking Soda as well as Vinegar
You can pour one cup of baking powder down your drain, followed by a Cup of white vinegar. It is best to protect the drain immediately with a clean cloth or rag so that the reaction doesn’t go over the top!
Step 4: Wait
Wait for about 30 minutes as the mix is at work. You should hear some fizzing and bubbling – this means it’s working!
Step 5: Flush using Boiling Water
Remove the cover carefully and flush with boiling water. This will clear any debris that remains and ensure that your water is flowing smoother.
Method 2: Wire Hanger
Sometimes all you need is a reliable wire hanger
Step 1 1. Straighten It Out
Straighten out the wire hanger as far as you can, but leave the other end as it was in its original form.
Step 2: Make an Hook
Create a small hook at the end of the wire you straightened.
Step 3: Look for Hair and Debris
Put the hook in the drain and search looking for hairs and debris. Remove anything that pops up.
Method 3: Wet/Dry Vacuum
If you’re in possession of an upright vacuum that is dry and wet, this method might be for you.
Step 1. Set the Vacuum
Set the vacuum in "liquids" or "wet" mode.
Stage 2: Seal Overflow Drain
Cover any overflow drains with either duct tape or wet cloth to ensure maximum suction power.
Step 3: Attach Hose to drain
Attach the hose onto your drain, creating an airtight seal.
Step 4: Turn on Vacuum
Switch on the vacuum and allow it to run for around three minutes. This should help remove any blockages from your shower drain.
| Method | Supplies Needed | Steps |
|---|---|---|
| Baking Soda and Vinegar | Baking soda, white vinegar, boiling water, rubber gloves (optional), cloth or rag | 1. Gather supplies\n2. Prepare the drain\n3. Pour in baking soda and vinegar\n4. Wait for 30 minutes\n5. Flush with boiling water |
| Wire Hanger | Wire hanger | 1. Straighten it out\n2. Create a hook\n3. Fish for hair and debris |
| Wet/Dry Vacuum | Wet/dry vacuum, duct tape or wet cloth | 1. Set the vacuum to "liquids" or "wet" mode\n2. Cover overflow drain \n3. Attach hose to drain \n4. Turn on vacuum |
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I tell if my shower drains are blocked?
If your shower is taking longer than usual time to empty or the water is getting swollen around your feet as you shower, it’s an indication that your drain may be partially or fully clogged. Additionally, a foul odor coming from the shower area may also be a sign of a blocked drain.
What are some natural ways to unblock a shower drain?
You could try pouring boiling water into the drain, followed by the baking soda mixture and then vinegar. You could also try a mixture of baking soda and salt and boiling water. Swirling the drain with a plunger might also help.
Do I need to utilize chemical drain cleaners remove the blockage in my shower?
It’s not recommended to utilize chemical drain cleaners as they contain toxic chemicals that can harm your pipes in the long run. They can also be harmful to the environment and pose health hazards to those who use them incorrectly.
What should I do if I need to call a professional plumber for my blocked shower drain?
If your DIY solutions don’t succeed in clearing your shower drain, it’s best to speak with a professional plumbing company such as Perth Blocked Drains Plumber in Perth for assistance. Other indicators that you may require professional help include water leaking out of other drains or toilets, strange noises of pipes gurgling or the smell of rotten food coming from the drains despite cleaning them.
How much will it cost to have a blocked shower drain cleared by plumbing experts?
The cost for fixing a blocked shower drain can differ depending on the extent of the issue as well as where you reside. On average, it costs between $100-$300 for a plumber who can unblock a shower drain. However, more severe situations which require pipe repair or replacement can cost upwards of $500-$1000.
Conclusion
Clearing out a blocked shower drain can be difficult it is, however, there are many ways to tackle the problem without turning to harsh chemicals. Whether you choose baking soda and vinegar, a wire hanger, or a wet/dry vacuum be sure to stop future blockages using a hair strainer within your shower and running hot water after every use, and not spilling grease into your drains. If none of these solutions perform, it could be the time to seek professional help. If you’re experiencing a lot of trouble or persistent plumbing issues with your plumbing in Perth , contact Perth Blocked Drains Plumber now!
Additional Information
- Ways to Find & Verify a Obstruction in Your Drain
- Common Causes of Drain Blockages and How to Avoid Them
- Save Money and Time with Preventative Drain Care Practices
- How to Tell You Need Drain Clearing Services for Your Business
- Prevent blockages effortlessly with effective solutions
- Tips to Understand When it's Time to Pick Up the Phone for Professional Drain Cleaning
- Reasons Why CCTV Drain Inspection is a Must Before Purchasing a Property
- Blockage of Drains: Plumbing Tips and Solutions
- Require help with your backed up drain? Find the best plumber
- What You Need to Know About Blocked Drains and How to Resolve Them
