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 isn’t draining and you’re frustrated, you’ll know how it is. Not only can it slow down your morning routine however, it can be harder to clean up after you’re finished. Although chemical drain cleaners can be sometimes effective, they can also damage your pipes and harm the environment. The positive side is there’s a lot of natural methods to clear the shower drain, without the need for harmful chemical solutions.
Key Takeaways
- Chemical drain cleaners may harm pipes as well as the environment.
- There are natural ways to unblock the drain of a shower, such as using baking soda, vinegar or a wire hanger or a dry/wet vacuum.
- To make use of baking soda and vinegar method: Gather items, clean the drain cover and other garbage, pour in baking soda followed by vinegar. Allow 30 minutes, then flush with boiling water.
- For wire hanger methods to straighten wire hanger while leaving one end in its original form Make a hook at the end and insert it in the drain to catch hair and debris out.
- Method for wet/dry vacuums switch the vacuum to "wet" mode Cover drains that overflow with tape or cloth, attach hose creating an air-tight seal. Then turn to the mode for 3 minutes.
- Prevent future blockages by using a hair strainer in your shower. You can also run hot water after each use, and not the practice of pouring grease down your drains.
Method 1: Making a cake with baking Soda and Vinegar
Step 1: Gather Your Equipment
To start take the following steps:
- Baking soda
- White vinegar
- Boiling water
- Rubber gloves (optional)
- A cloth or rag
Step 2. Prepare the Drain
Take off the shower drain cover If you can, and then use an e-brush or small toothbrush to remove all hair and other particles from around the edges of the drain. Be sure to wear rubber gloves in the event of need.
Step 3: Pour in Baking Soda along with Vinegar
Put one cup baking soda in the sink, followed by a cups of vinegar. Then cover this drain immediately with a cloth or a rag to ensure the reaction doesn’t go over the top!
Step 4: Wait
Take about 30 minutes as the mix works its magic. You should hear some fizzing and bubbling – this means it’s working!
Step 5: Rinse using Boiling Water
Remove the cover with care and flush it out with hot water. This should clear any remaining debris and make sure that the water flows without a hitch.
Method 2: Wire Hanger
Sometimes all you require is a trusty wire hanger
Step 1 1. Straighten It Out
Straighten out the wire hanger as far as you can while leaving the other end as it was in its original form.
Step 2: Design a Hook
Make a small hook at the top of the wire you just straightened.
Step 3: Search for hair and Debris
Place the hook in the drain and search for hairs and debris. Take out whatever comes up.
Method 3: Dry Vacuum Wet
If you’re able to access dry or wet vacuums, this method might be the best option for you.
Step 1. Set the Vacuum
The vacuum should be set in "liquids" (or "wet" mode.
Step 2: Cover Overflow Drain
Overflow drains should be covered with either duct tape or wet cloth to ensure the highest suction power.
Step 3: Attach Hose to drain
Attach the hose to your drain to create an air-tight seal.
Step 4: Turn on Vacuum
Then, turn on the vacuum and let it run for approximately three minutes. This should eliminate 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 |
Common Questions & Answers
What can I tell if my shower drains are clogged?
If your shower takes longer than usual time to empty, or water is pooling around your feet when you shower, it’s a sign that your drain is completely or partially blocked. Additionally, a foul odor coming from the shower area could also indicate a clogged drain.
What are the best natural methods to free a shower drain?
You can try pouring boiling water down the drain, then followed with baking soda, vinegar and. It is also possible to use an amalgamation of baking soda and salt and boiling water. Plunging the drain with a plunger might also help.
Do I need to employ chemical drain cleaners in order to remove the blockage in my shower?
It’s not recommended to utilize chemical drain cleaners because they are laden with harsh chemicals that can cause damage to your pipes over time. They can also be harmful to the environment and pose health risks for those who handle the products improperly.
When should I get in touch with a professional plumber about my blocked shower drain?
If DIY methods don’t work in clearing the shower drain, you should to speak with a professional plumbing company such as Perth Blocked Drains Plumbing in Perth to get help. Other signs that you need professional help include the water coming out of other drains or toilets odd gurgling sounds coming from pipes or odors of foul smells emanating from the drains even after cleaning them.
How much will it cost to fix a clogged shower drain fixed by a plumber?
The cost to fix an unblocking shower drain could vary depending on the severity of the problem and where you reside. On average, it costs between $100 and $300 for a plumber to clear the shower drain. However, more extreme cases that require pipe repair or replacements can cost upwards of $500-$1000.
Conclusion
Unblocking a shower drain can be a hassle it is, however, there are many alternatives to try before using harsh chemicals. Whatever you decide to do, whether baking soda and vinegar, a wire hanger, or a vacuum cleaner that is wet/dry, remember to take steps to keep your drains from becoming blocked by making use of a hair strainer in your shower as well as running hot water in the shower after each use, and avoiding the practice of pouring grease down your drains. If none of these options work, it’s the time to seek professional help. If you’re having trouble with persistent and persistent plumbing problems at Perth , contact Perth Blocked Drains Plumbing today!
Additional Information
- Bid Farewell to Clogged Drains with These Useful Methods
- The Ultimate Guide to Drain Clearing Services
- Clear Your Drains with This Amazing DIY Guide Which is Effortless to Implement
- Troubleshooting Blocked Drains Plumbing Solutions and Tips
- Your Ultimate Guide to Clearing and Unblocking Clogged Drains with Ease
- Drains 101: Essential Tips for Keeping Your Pipes in Good Condition
- Avoid Common Mistakes: Expert Tips on Choosing the Best Pipe Relining Material
- End Blocked Drains Immediately: Professional Tips to Try Today
- When to Call a Professional for Blocked Drains: A Guide
- The Importance of CCTV Drain Inspection in Commercial Properties
