How to Unblock a Shower Drain Without Chemicals
If you’ve ever taken a bath and realized that the water hasn’t been draining it, you’re aware of how annoying it could be. This not only slows the morning routine, but it can also be harder to clean up when you’re done. Although chemical drain cleaners can be occasionally effective, they could also damage your pipes and harm the environment. The good news is there’s a lot of natural ways to unblock the shower drain, without the need for harsh chemical solutions.
Key Takeaways
- Chemical drain cleaners can harm pipes and the environment.
- There are several natural methods to get rid of the blockage in a shower like baking soda and vinegar, a wire hanger, or a wet/dry vacuum.
- To make use of baking soda and vinegar method: Gather supplies, remove the drain cover and any debris, then pour in baking soda followed by vinegar. Wait for 30 minutes then flush with boiling water.
- Wire hanger method Straighten the wire hanger and leave one end in its original shape and then create a hook on the top, and then place it into the drain, and then use it to pull hair and other debris out.
- Method for wet/dry vacuums Set the vacuum in "wet" mode and cover drains overflowing with cloth or tape, attach the hose, creating an air-tight seal. Then turn on the vacuum for three minutes.
- Prevent future blockages by using a hair strainer in your shower. Run hot water after each use and refraining from running grease down your drains.
Method 1: Bake Soda and Vinegar
Step 1: Gather Your Equipment
To begin, gather the following items:
- Baking soda
- White vinegar
- Boiling water
- Rubber gloves (optional)
- A rag or cloth
Step 2: Prepare the Drain
Clean the shower drain if possible and use a small brush or toothbrush to remove any hair or other debris from around the edges of the drain. Make sure you wear rubber gloves in the event of need.
Step 3: Add Baking Soda and Vinegar
Place one teaspoon of baking soda into the drainage, followed by a cup of white vinegar. Make sure to cover with a rag or cloth. Cover the drain immediately with a towel or a towel to ensure that the reaction doesn’t go out of control!
Step 4: Wait
Take about 30 minutes while the mixture works its magic. You should hear some fizzing and bubbling. That’s a sign that it’s working!
Step 5: Drain with Boiling Water
Remove the cover carefully and flush the water with boiling. This should clear any debris that remains and make sure that the water flows freely.
Method 2: Wire Hanger
Sometimes all you need is a trusted wire hanger:
Step 1 1. Straighten It Out
Straighten out a wire hanger to the greatest extent as possible, leaving one end with its original shape.
Step 2: Design a Hook
Create a small hook at the top of the wire that you just straightened out.
Step 3: Look for Hair and Debris
Insert the hook into the drain and look to look for hair and debris. Get rid of anything that comes up.
Method 3: Dry/Wet Vacuum
If you own dry or wet vacuums it could be the best option for you.
Step 1: Set the Vacuum
Set the vacuum into "liquids" (or "wet" mode.
Stage 2: Seal Drainage
Cover any overflow drains with the use of duct tape or a damp cloth to ensure the highest suction power.
Step 3: Connect Hose to drain
Connect the hose to the drain, creating an airtight seal.
Step 4: Turn on Vacuum
Then, turn on the vacuum and allow it to run for approximately three minutes. This should remove any obstructions in the 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 Question
How do I know when my shower drain has become clogged?
If your shower is taking longer than usual to fill or if you notice that water is collecting around your feet as you shower, it’s a sign that your drain might be full or partial blocked. In addition, an unpleasant odor coming from the shower area could indicate a blocked drain.
What are some natural ways to clear a shower drain?
You could try pouring boiling water into the drain. It will be followed by baking soda and vinegar. It is also possible to use an amalgamation of baking soda and salt and boiling water. Swirling the drain with a plunger might also help.
Can I make use of chemical drain cleaners to remove the blockage in my shower?
It’s not recommended to use chemical drain cleaners as they are laden with harsh chemicals that can damage the pipes over time. These chemicals also can harm the surroundings and pose health risks for those who handle the products improperly.
When should I contact a professional plumber for my shower drain that is blocked?
If your DIY solutions don’t succeed in unblocking your shower drain, then it’s advisable to speak with a professional plumbing company like Perth Blocked Drains Plumber in Perth for help. Other signs that you need assistance from a professional include water backing up out of other drains or toilets, odd gurgling sounds coming from pipes or odors of foul smells emanating from drains, even after cleaning them.
What is the cost to have a blocked shower drain fixed by plumbing experts?
The cost for fixing blocked shower drains can be different based on the severity of the issue and where you live. In the average, it will cost between $100-$300 for a plumber to clear the shower drain. However, more severe cases which require pipe repair or replacements could cost upwards of $500-$1000.
Conclusion
The process of unblocking the shower drain can be difficult, but there are many natural methods to try before using harsh chemicals. If you decide to use vinegar and baking soda or a wire hanger or a vacuum cleaner that is wet/dry, make sure you stop future blockages making use of a hair strainer in your shower or shower, and then running hot water following every use, and avoid pouring grease down your drains. If none of these options perform, it could be time to get professional assistance. If you’re having trouble with persistent and persistent plumbing issues within Perth , contact Perth Blocked Drains Plumber today!
Additional Information
- The Benefits of CCTV Drain Inspection: Beyond Unclogging Pipes
- How CCTV Drain Inspection Can Save You Money in the Long Run
- Overcoming Stubborn Clogs with High Pressure Drain Cleaning
- DIY Plumber - An Easy Guide to Unclog Your Shower Drain
- Save Money and Time with Preventative Drain Care Practices
- Expert Manual to Plumbing Cleaning for a Blockage-Free Home
- How to Tell You Need Drain Clearing Services for Your Business
- Common Causes of Drain Blockages and How to Avoid Them
- Don't Panic: Tips for Handling a Blocked Toilet
- How to Choose between Different Types of Pipe Relining Materials (And Which One Is Right for You)
