How to Unblock a Shower Drain Without Chemicals
If you’ve ever had the misfortune of taking a shower and realized that the water hasn’t been draining and you’re frustrated, you’ll know how it is. Not only does it slow down your morning routine it also makes it difficult to clean after you’re finished. Although chemical drain cleaners are occasionally effective, they could also damage your pipes and harm the environment. The good news is that there are a lot of ways that you can unblock a shower drain without resorting to harsh chemicals.
Key Takeaways
- Chemical drain cleaners may harm pipes as well as the environment.
- There are many natural methods to get rid of the blockage in a shower by using baking soda and vinegar and a wire hanger or a dry/wet vacuum.
- For baking soda with vinegar: collect ingredients, unblock the cover for draining and any obstructions, and pour baking soda in, then vinegar. Wait 30 minutes, then flush with boiling water.
- To use 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 let it catch hair and debris out.
- To use wet/dry vacuum method select the "wet" mode Cover drains that overflow with cloth or tape, connect the hose to create an airtight seal. Then turn it on for 3 minutes.
- Avoid future blockages by using a hair strainer in your shower. Run hot water following each use and avoiding using grease to clean your drains.
Method 1: Baking Soda and Vinegar
Step 1. Gather Your Materials
To start, gather the following items:
- Baking soda
- White vinegar
- Boiling water
- Rubber gloves (optional)
- A cloth or rag
Step 2: Clean the Drain
Clean the shower drain If you can, and then use a small brush or toothbrush to get rid of the hairs or any other obstruction from the drain’s edges. Be sure to wear rubber gloves if necessary.
Step 3. Pour in Baking Soda along with Vinegar
Put one cup baking soda in the sink followed by a cup white vinegar. It is best to protect with a rag or cloth. Cover the drain immediately using a cloth or a rag to ensure that the reaction doesn’t explode into chaos!
Step 4: Wait
Take about 30 minutes while the mixture performs its magic. There should be a sound of fizzing and bubbling, which means it’s working!
Step 5: Flush using Boiling Water
Clean the cover thoroughly and flush with boiling water. This will help remove any remaining debris and allow your water to flow freely.
Method 2: Wire Hanger
Sometimes all you require is a reliable wire hanger:
Step 1: Straighten It Out
Straighten out a wire hanger as much as you can while leaving one end in its original shape.
Step 2: Create an Hook
Make a hook that is small at the top of the wire that you just straightened.
Step 3: Search for hair and Debris
Place the hook in the drain, and then fish looking for hair as well as debris. Pull out anything that comes up.
Method 3: Dry Vacuum Wet
If you have access to dry or wet vacuums it could be for you.
Step 1: Set the Vacuum
The vacuum should be set in "liquids" as well as "wet" mode.
Step 2: Cover Drainage
Cover drains that are overflowing with duct tape or a wet cloth to ensure the highest suction power.
Step 3: Connect Hose to drain
Attach the hose to your drain, making an airtight seal.
Step 4: Turn on Vacuum
Start the vacuum, and allow it to run for around three minutes. This should eliminate any obstructions from 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 |
FAQs
How do I know whether my shower drain is blocked?
If your shower is taking longer than usual time to empty, or water is pooling on your feet during your shower, it’s an indication that your drain is partially or fully clogged. Additionally, a foul odor coming from the shower area may also be a sign of a blocked drain.
What are the best natural methods to free a shower drain?
Try pouring boiling water into the drain, followed with baking soda, vinegar and. You can also use an amalgamation of salt and baking soda and boiling water. A plunger to drain the sewage plunger might also help.
Do I need to use chemical drain cleaners to clear my shower?
It’s not advised to use chemical drain cleaners because they contain harsh chemicals that can cause damage to your pipes over time. Chemicals can also damage the environment and pose health hazards for those who use them improperly.
What should I do if I need to call a professional plumber for my blocked shower drain?
If the DIY method doesn’t work in clearing your shower drain, it’s recommended to call a professional plumber like Perth Blocked Drains Plumbers in Perth for help. Other indicators that you may require assistance from a professional include the appearance of water in other drains or toilets, odd gurgling sounds coming from pipes or the smell of rotten food coming from drains, even after cleaning them.
How much does it cost to fix a clogged shower drain cleared by plumbing experts?
The cost for fixing the problem of a blocked shower drain will differ based on the severity of the issue as well as where you live. In the average, it will cost between $100 and $300 for a plumber to unblock a shower drain. However, more severe situations that require pipe repairs or replacements could cost upwards of $500-$1000.
Conclusion
Unblocking a shower drain could be a hassle however there are numerous alternative methods you can try before making the switch to harsh chemicals. It doesn’t matter if you use vinegar and baking soda, a wire hanger, or a wet/dry vacuum make sure you stop future blockages using a hair strainer within your shower, running hot water after each use, and refraining from pouring grease down your drains. If none of these solutions work, it may be the time to seek professional help. If you’re struggling with a difficult or having trouble with plumbing problems with your plumbing in Perth , contact Perth Blocked Drains Plumbers now!
Additional Information
- Clearing Clogged Drains: A Comprehensive Guide for Plumbers
- Unblock Your Drains with This Amazing DIY Guide That's Simple to Use
- Keeping Costly Drain Repairs at Bay with Routine Inspections
- CCTV Drain Inspections: The Key to Preventing Clogs and Other Plumbing Issues
- Start with Clean Plumbing for a Pristine Home: Essential Tips for Maintaining Your Plumbing
- Protect Your Home Investment by Conducting A CCTV Drain Inspection Prior Purchase
- Unclog Your Drains: Speedy Tips to Try Out Right Now
- Prevent Drain Blockages Immediately: A Homeowner's Handbook
- Eliminate Drain Issues for Good: Stop These 5 Precursors Now
- A Comprehensive Overview of CCTV Drain Inspection for Your Home
