How to Unblock a Shower Drain Without Chemicals
If you’ve ever had the misfortune of taking a shower only to realize that the water hasn’t been draining then you’ll be aware of how frustrating it can be. This not only slows down your morning routine, however, it can be difficult to clean when you’re done. Although chemical drain cleaners can be occasionally effective, they could also damage your pipes and cause harm to the environment. The good news is there’s plenty of methods that are natural to unblock a shower drain without resorting to harsh chemical solutions.
Key Takeaways
- Chemical drain cleaners could harm pipes and the environment.
- There are several natural methods to unblock the drain of a shower, such as using baking soda and vinegar or a wire hanger or a dry/wet vacuum.
- To use baking soda with vinegar: collect items, clean the drain cover and other obstructions, and pour baking soda and vinegar. Wait for 30 minutes then flush with boiling water.
- For wire hanger methods use a straight wire hanger, leaving one end in its original shape Create a hook at the end, then insert it into the drain, and then use it to pull hair and debris out.
- To use wet/dry vacuum method switch the vacuum to "wet" mode then cover the drains of overflow by a cloth or tape, join the hose and create an airtight seal. Turn off the vacuum after 3 minutes.
- Be prepared for blockages in the future by using hair strainers in your shower, and running hot water after each use, and not using grease to clean your drains.
Method 1: Making a cake with baking Soda and Vinegar
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
To begin to begin, collect the following items:
- Baking soda
- White vinegar
- Boiling water
- Rubber gloves (optional)
- A rag or cloth
Step 2: Clean the Drain
Take off the shower drain cover as much as you can and use a small brush or toothbrush to remove the hairs or any other obstruction from around the edges of the drain. Make sure you wear rubber gloves when you need to.
Step 3: Pour in Baking Soda and Vinegar
Put one cup baking soda in the sink followed by a cups of vinegar. Make sure to cover your drain immediately with a cloth or a rag to ensure that the reaction doesn’t go beyond control!
Step 4: Wait
It should 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: Rinse using Boiling Water
Clean the cover thoroughly and flush it out with hot water. This will clear all debris remaining and help ensure that your water is flowing smoother.
Method 2: Wire Hanger
Sometimes all you need is a reliable wire hanger
Step 1: Straighten It Out
Straighten a wire hanger to the greatest extent as you can while leaving the other end as it was in its original form.
Step 2: Make a Hook
Make a small hook at the top of the wire that you have just straightened out.
Step 3: Search for Hair and Debris
Place the hook in the drain and fish around 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 suitable for you:
Step 1. Set the Vacuum
The vacuum should be set on "liquids" as well as "wet" mode.
Second Step: Close 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 your drain, creating an airtight seal.
Step 4: Turn on Vacuum
Start the vacuum, and let it run for approximately three minutes. This should help remove any blockages in the drain of your shower.
| 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 |
FAQ
What can I tell when my shower drain has become blocked?
If your shower takes longer than usual to fill or if water is accumulating on your feet during your shower, it’s a sign that your drain is partially or fully clogged. Additionally, a foul odor emanating from the shower may also be a sign of a blocked drain.
What are the best natural methods to free a shower drain?
You could try pouring boiling water down the drain, then followed by baking soda and vinegar. It is also possible to use the mixture of salt and baking soda and boiling water. The drain can be drained by a plunger may also help.
Can I use chemical drain cleaners to clear my shower?
It is not recommended to use chemical drain cleaners since they contain harmful chemicals that could harm your pipes in the long run. These chemicals can also harm the environment and pose health risk for those who use them in a way that isn’t safe.
When should I call a professional plumber for my shower drain that is blocked?
If DIY techniques don’t work in unblocking your shower drain, it’s recommended to call a professional plumber like Perth Blocked Drains Plumbing in Perth for help. Other signs that you need assistance from a professional include water leaking out of other drains or toilets weird gurgling sounds from pipes or smells that are foul from the drains even after cleaning them.
What is the cost to get a clogged shower drain cleared by an experienced plumber?
The cost of fixing a blocked shower drain can differ depending on the extent of the issue and where you live. It is typically between $100-$300 for a plumber to unblock the drain of a shower. However, more serious cases that require pipe repair or replacement could cost anywhere from $500 to $1000.
Conclusion
Clearing out a blocked shower drain can be stressful, but there are numerous alternative methods you can try before resorting to harsh chemicals. It doesn’t matter if you use vinegar and baking soda or a wire hanger or a dry/wet vacuum, ensure you take the necessary steps to stop future blockages using a hair strainer in your shower or shower, and then running hot water following each use, and refraining from using grease into your drains. If none of these solutions work, it may be time to call in professional help. If you’re experiencing a lot of trouble or having trouble with plumbing issues at Perth , contact Perth Blocked Drains Plumbing immediately!
Additional Information
- Why Pipe Relining is a Cost-Effective Solution for your Business’ Plumbing Issues?
- Avoid Drain Blockages: Tips to Steer Clear of These 5 Common Triggers
- Fix your blocked drain crisis with the top plumber available
- Saving Time and Money with CCTV Drain Inspection for Drain Clearing
- Understanding CCTV Drain Inspection and the Benefits for Your Home
- High Pressure Drain Cleaning: The Best Solution You Need
- Avoid Common Mistakes: Expert Tips on Choosing the Best Pipe Relining Material
- The Importance of CCTV Drain Inspections in Preventing Expensive Property Damage
- Prevent Expensive Repairs with Regular Drain Maintenance
- Discovering the Reasons Causes Blocked Drainage Systems
