How to Unblock a Shower Drain Without Chemicals
If you’ve ever had the misfortune of taking a shower and realized that the water doesn’t drain and you’re frustrated, you’ll know how it could be. Not only does it slow down your morning routine but it can also be more difficult to clean up after having finished. While chemical drain cleaners are occasionally effective, they could also damage your pipes and damage the environment. The positive side is that there are plenty of methods that are natural to unblock a shower drain without using harsh chemical solutions.
Key Takeaways
- Chemical drain cleaners can damage pipes as well as the environment.
- There are several natural methods to unblock the drain of a shower, such as using baking soda and vinegar, a wire hanger, or a dry/wet vacuum.
- To make use of the method of baking soda and vinegar: collect items, clean drain cover and obstructions, and pour baking soda and vinegar. Wait for 30 minutes, then flush with boiling water.
- Wire hanger method to straighten wire hanger, leaving one end in its original shape Create a hook at the end and insert it into the drain, and then use it to pull hair and other debris out.
- Method for wet/dry vacuums Set the vacuum in "wet" mode then cover the drains of overflow with cloth or tape, connect the hose to create an airtight seal then turn on the vacuum for three minutes.
- To prevent future blockages, use hair strainers in your shower, and running hot water after each usage and avoiding running grease down your drains.
Method 1 Method 1: Bake Soda and Vinegar
Step 1. Gather Your Materials
To start take the following steps:
- Baking soda
- White vinegar
- Boiling water
- Rubber gloves (optional)
- A cloth or rag
Step 2: Prepare the Drain
Remove the shower drain cover as much as you can and use the small brush or toothbrush to remove the hairs or any other obstruction around the drain’s edges. Make sure to wear rubber gloves in the event of need.
Step 3: Add Baking Soda in addition to Vinegar
Put one cup baking soda in the sink, followed by one cup of white vinegar. Then cover with a rag or cloth. Cover the drain immediately with a towel or a towel to ensure that the reaction doesn’t explode beyond control!
Step 4: Wait
Take about 30 minutes as the mix is at work. There should be a sound of fizzing and bubbling – this means it’s working!
Step 5: Drain with Boiling Water
Clean the cover thoroughly and flush it with boiling water. This should help clear all debris remaining and help make sure that the water flows smoothly again.
Method 2: Wire Hanger
Sometimes all you need is a trusted wire hanger:
Step 1 Straighten It Out
Straighten the wire hanger as far as possible, leaving one end of the hanger in its original shape.
Step 2: Make an Hook
Create a small hook at the end of the wire that you just straightened.
Step 3: Search for Hair and Debris
Place the hook in the drain, and then fish to look for hairs and debris. Take out whatever comes up.
Method 3: Dry/Wet Vacuum
If you’re in possession of an air-tight vacuum, this method might be for you.
Step 1: Set the Vacuum
Set the vacuum in "liquids" (or "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, creating an airtight seal.
Step 4: Turn on Vacuum
Then, turn on the vacuum and allow it to run for approximately three minutes. This will help clear any blockages 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 |
Frequently Asked Question
How can I tell when my shower drain has become clogged?
If your shower takes longer than usual time to empty, or water is pooling on your feet during your shower, it’s a sign that your drain might be partially or fully clogged. In addition, an unpleasant 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?
You can try pouring boiling water down the drain, then followed by the baking soda mixture and then vinegar. It is also possible to use a mixture of salt and baking soda followed by boiling water. Swirling the drain with a plunger can also aid.
Can I utilize chemical drain cleaners free my shower?
It’s not recommended to use chemical drain cleaners because they are laden with harsh chemicals that can cause damage to the pipes in the long run. They can also be harmful to the surroundings and pose health risks for those who use the products improperly.
When should I call a professional plumber for my shower drain that is blocked?
If your DIY solutions don’t succeed in clearing your shower drain, then it’s advisable to get a professional plumber like Perth Blocked Drains Plumbing in Perth for assistance. Other indicators that you may require professional assistance include water leaking out of other toilets or drains, weird gurgling sounds from pipes or the smell of rotten food coming out of the drains after cleaning them.
How much will it cost to have a blocked shower drain fixed by an experienced plumber?
The cost for fixing blocked shower drains can differ depending on the extent of the issue as well as where you reside. On average, it costs between $100-$300 for a plumber to clear the shower drain. However, more severe situations that require pipe repair or replacements can be priced between $500 and $1000.
Conclusion
The process of unblocking the shower drain can be a hassle it is, however, there are plenty of alternative methods you can try before turning to harsh chemicals. Whether you choose baking soda and vinegar or a wire hanger or a wet/dry vacuum, be sure to prevent future blockages by using a hair strainer within your shower, running hot water after each use, and refraining from using grease into your drains. If none of these solutions perform, it could be time to get professional assistance. If you’re struggling with a difficult and persistent plumbing problems in Perth , contact Perth Blocked Drains Plumbing today!
Additional Information
- End Blocked Drains Immediately: Professional Tips to Try Today
- The Ultimate Guide to Drain Clearing Services
- The Pros and Cons of DIY Drain Cleaning vs. Hiring a Professional
- Measures to Spot & Confirm a Blocked Drain
- 10 Tricks for Keeping Your Drains Blockage-Free
- Discovering the Reasons Causes Blocked Drainage Systems
- Bid Farewell to Clogged Drains with These Useful Methods
- Preventing Clogs and Blockages: Best Practices for Maintaining Your Drains
- Avoid Drain Blockages: Tips to Steer Clear of These 5 Common Triggers
- Stop the Block: A Decade of Tips for Preventing Blocked Drains in Your Home
