How to Unblock a Shower Drain Without Chemicals
If you’ve ever taken a bath only to find that the water doesn’t drain it, you’re aware of how annoying it is. Not only can it slow down your morning routine, but it can also be more difficult to clean after you’re finished. While chemical drain cleaners are sometimes effective, they may also damage your pipes and harm the environment. The positive side is the fact that you have plenty of natural methods to clear the shower drain, without the need for harsh chemical solutions.
Key Takeaways
- Chemical drain cleaners can harm pipes and even the environment.
- There are many natural methods to unblock the drain of a shower, such as using baking soda or vinegar as well as a wire hanger or a wet/dry vacuum.
- For the baking soda method and vinegar, gather ingredients, unblock the drain cover and any obstructions, and pour baking soda, followed by vinegar. Wait for 30 minutes before flushing with boiling water.
- Wire hanger method to straighten wire hanger, leaving one end as it was and then create a hook on the end, insert it in the drain, and then use it to pull hair and debris out.
- To use wet/dry vacuum method: set vacuum to "wet" mode Cover drains that overflow using cloth or tape. attach hose creating an air-tight seal then turn off the vacuum after 3 minutes.
- Avoid future blockages by using a hair strainer in your shower, running hot water after each use and refraining from running grease down your drains.
Method 1: Baking Soda and Vinegar
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
To start you can gather 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 toothbrush to scrub any hair or other debris around the drain’s edges. Make sure you wear rubber gloves if necessary.
Step 3: Pour in Baking Soda along with Vinegar
Pour one cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by a cup of white vinegar. Then cover the drain immediately with a clean cloth or rag so that the reaction doesn’t get out of control!
Step 4: Wait
You should wait for around 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 with care and flush it out with hot water. This will clear any debris that remains and allow your water to flow smoother.
Method 2: Wire Hanger
Sometimes all you require is a trusted wire hanger
Step 1 1. Straighten It Out
Straighten the wire hanger as far as you can while leaving one end with its original shape.
Step 2: Design an Hook
Create a small hook at the end of the wire that you just straightened out.
Step 3: Fish for Hair and Debris
Place the hook in the drain, and then fish to look for hairs and debris. Remove anything that pops up.
Method 3: Dry Vacuum Wet
If you’re able to access a wet/dry vacuum the following method may be the best option for you.
Step 1: Set the Vacuum
The vacuum should be set to "liquids" or "wet" mode.
Stage 2: Seal Overflow Drain
Cover any overflow drains with duct tape or a moist cloth to ensure maximum suction power.
Step 3: Attach Hose to Drain
Connect the hose to the drain, making an airtight seal.
Step 4: Turn on Vacuum
Then, turn on the vacuum and allow it to run for approximately three minutes. This should eliminate 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 |
Common Questions & Answers
How can I tell if my shower drain is blocked?
If your shower is taking longer than usual time to empty or the water is getting swollen around your feet when you shower, it’s an indication that your drain may be full or partial blocked. Additionally, a foul odor emanating from the shower could be an indication of a blocked drain.
What are the best natural methods to unblock the shower drain?
You could try pouring boiling water into the drain, followed by baking soda and vinegar. You can also use the mixture of salt and baking soda followed by boiling water. Swirling the drain with a plunger may also help.
Do I need to utilize chemical drain cleaners free my shower?
It is not recommended to use chemical drain cleaners as they are laden with harmful chemicals that could harm the pipes in the long run. These chemicals also can harm the environment and pose health risk for those who use them incorrectly.
When should I get in touch with a professional plumber about my shower drain that is blocked?
If the DIY method doesn’t work in unblocking your shower drain, then it’s advisable to contact a professional plumber such as Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbers in Melbourne to get help. Other indicators that you may require professional help include the appearance of water in the toilet or other drains, weird gurgling sounds from pipes or smells that are foul out of the drains after cleaning them.
How much does it cost to fix a clogged shower drain fixed by a plumber?
The cost for fixing blocked shower drains can be different based on the severity of the issue and the location you live. It is typically between $100-$300 for a plumber to clear the drain of a shower. However, more extreme cases that require pipe repair or replacements can be priced between $500 and $1000.
Conclusion
Unblocking a shower drain could be stressful, but there are numerous alternatives to try before making the switch to harsh chemicals. Whatever you decide to do, whether vinegar and baking soda, a wire hanger or a wet/dry vacuum be sure to keep your drains from becoming blocked by using a hair strainer in your shower and running hot water after every use, and avoid the practice of pouring grease into your drains. If these strategies don’t succeed, it’s time to call in professional assistance. If you’re having trouble with persistent or declining plumbing problems in Melbourne , contact Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbers today!
Additional Information
- Instant Fixes for a Clogged Drain: Tips and Tricks
- The Advantage of CCTV Drain Inspection in Detecting Root Infiltration Early
- Choose the right plumber to repair your clogged drain crisis
- Reasons Why CCTV Drain Inspection is a Must Before Purchasing a Property
- Clogged Bathroom Drain? Learn How to Clear it with The following Thorough Guide
- Future-Proofing Your Plumbing System with CCTV Drain Inspection
- Unblock Your Drains with This Do-It-Yourself Guide That is Simple to Follow
- Don't Let Your Drains Get You Down: 10 Methods to Prevent Clogs in Your Home
- Dealing with Blocked Drains: DIY Techniques vs Professional Services
- Detecting and Identifying a Blocked Drain: Tricks & Techniques
