How to Unblock a Shower Drain Without Chemicals
If you’ve ever taken a shower only to discover that the water isn’t draining and you’re frustrated, you’ll know how it could be. It’s not just slowing down your morning routine, it also makes it more difficult to clean up after you’re finished. Although chemical drain cleaners can be sometimes effective, they can also damage the pipes as well as harm the environment. The good news is the fact that you have plenty of natural methods to clear a shower drain, without the need for harsh chemical solutions.
Key Takeaways
- Chemical drain cleaners may harm pipes and even the environment.
- There are a variety of natural ways to unblock a shower drain by using baking soda and vinegar, a wire hanger, or a dry/wet vacuum.
- To use the baking soda method and vinegar, gather items, clean drain cover and debris, then pour baking soda in, then vinegar, wait for 30 minutes, then flush with boiling water.
- To use wire hanger method to straighten wire hanger while leaving the other end in its original form Create a hook at the top, and then place it inside the drain and let it catch hair and debris out.
- For wet/dry vacuums switch the vacuum to "wet" mode, cover overflow drains by a cloth or tape, attach hose creating an air-tight seal. Turn off the vacuum after 3 minutes.
- Prevent future blockages by using hair strainers in your shower, running hot water following each use, and not using grease to clean your drains.
Method 1 Method 1: Bake Soda and Vinegar
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
To begin to begin, collect the following items:
- Baking soda
- White vinegar
- Boiling water
- Rubber gloves (optional)
- A rag or cloth
Step 2: Prepare the Drain
Get rid of the shower drain cover if possible and use the small brush or brush to clean dirt or hair the edges of the drain. Make sure you wear rubber gloves in the event of need.
Step 3. Pour in Baking Soda along with Vinegar
Pour one cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by one cup of white vinegar. Cover the drain immediately with a towel or a rag to ensure that the reaction doesn’t explode 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: Clean with Boiling Water
Remove the cover carefully and flush it with boiling water. This should help clear any remaining debris and get your water flowing smoother.
Method 2: Wire Hanger
Sometimes all you need is a reliable wire hanger
Step 1 1. Straighten It Out
Straighten a wire hanger as much as you can, but leave one end of the hanger in its original shape.
Step 2: Make a Hook
Make a hook that is small at the top of the wire you just straightened.
Step 3: Search for Hair and Debris
Hook it into the drain and search for hair and debris. Pull out anything that comes up.
Method 3: Wet/Dry Vacuum
If you have access to a wet/dry vacuum the following method may be the best option for you.
Step 1: Set the Vacuum
Set the vacuum to "liquids" and "wet" mode.
Stage 2: Seal Overflow Drain
Cover drains that are overflowing with duct tape or a wet cloth to ensure maximum suction power.
Step 3: Connect Hose to drain
Connect the hose to your drain to create an air-tight seal.
Step 4: Turn on Vacuum
Turn on the vacuum and allow it to run for around three minutes. This should help remove any obstructions in 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 |
FAQs
How do I know if my shower drains are blocked?
If your shower is taking longer than normal to empty or the water is getting swollen around your feet while you shower, it’s a sign that your drain is completely or partially blocked. Also, a smell of rottenness emanating from the shower could be an indication of a blocked drain.
What are the best natural methods to clear a shower drain?
Try pouring boiling water down the drain, then followed by baking soda and vinegar. It is also possible to use the mixture of baking soda and salt followed by boiling water. The drain can be drained by a plunger could also be helpful.
Do I need to use chemical drain cleaners to remove the blockage in my shower?
It is not recommended to use chemical drain cleaners as they contain harmful chemicals that could harm the pipes over time. These chemicals also can harm the surroundings and pose health risks to those who handle them improperly.
When should I call a professional plumber about my blocked shower drain?
If your DIY solutions don’t succeed in clearing your shower drain, it’s best to contact a professional plumber like Perth Blocked Drains Plumbers in Perth for help. Other indicators that you may require assistance from a professional include water backing up out of other drains or toilets weird gurgling sounds from pipes or odors of foul smells emanating out of the drains after cleaning them.
What is the cost to get a clogged shower drain fixed by a plumber?
The cost to fix the problem of a blocked shower drain will differ based on the severity of the issue and where you reside. In the average, it will cost between $100-$300 for a plumber who can unblock the shower drain. However, more severe cases that require pipe repairs or replacement can be priced between $500 and $1000.
Conclusion
Clearing out a blocked shower drain can be frustrating and time-consuming, but there are many alternative methods you can try before using harsh chemicals. It doesn’t matter if you use vinegar and baking soda, a wire hanger, or a wet/dry vacuum be sure to keep your drains from becoming blocked by making use of a hair strainer in your shower or shower, and then running hot water following every use, and not the practice of pouring grease into your drains. If none of these options work, it’s an appropriate time to seek professional assistance. If you’re having trouble with persistent or having trouble with plumbing problems at Perth , contact Perth Blocked Drains Plumbers today!
Additional Information
- Unblocking Your Drainage Pipes: The Best Plumbing Solutions
- DIY Drain Cleaning: How to Safely Tackle Clogged Drains
- Investigating & Verifying a Blocked Drain: Measures to Take
- Why Pipe Relining is a Cost-Effective Solution for your Business’ Plumbing Issues?
- Troubleshooting Blocked Drains Plumbing Tips and Solutions
- Start with Clean Plumbing for a Pristine Home: Essential Tips for Maintaining Your Plumbing
- Keep Your Home Safe by Hiring a Professional Drain Cleaning Service
- Tips and Tricks for Fixing a Clogged Pipe with Ease
- Unclog Your Drains: Speedy Tips to Try Out Right Now
- CCTV Drain Inspections: The Key to Preventing Clogs and Other Plumbing Issues
