How to Unblock a Shower Drain Without Chemicals
If you’ve ever taken a shower and realized that the water hasn’t been draining then you’ll be aware of how frustrating it can be. This not only slows the morning routine, it also makes it more difficult to clean up after you’re finished. While chemical drain cleaners are sometimes effective, they can also damage the pipes as well as harm the environment. The good news lies in the plenty of ways that you can unblock a shower drain without using harmful chemical solutions.
Key Takeaways
- Chemical drain cleaners may harm pipes and the environment.
- There are a variety of natural ways to get rid of the blockage in a shower like baking soda and vinegar and a wire hanger or a dry/wet vacuum.
- To make use of the baking soda method and vinegar: Gather materials, take off drain cover and debris, then pour baking soda and vinegar, wait for 30 minutes then flush with boiling water.
- Wire hanger method: straighten out wire hanger and leave one end in its original form Make a hook at the end and insert it down the drain and let it catch hair and debris out.
- Method for wet/dry vacuums select the "wet" mode, cover overflow drains using cloth or tape. connect the hose to create an airtight seal, then turn off the vacuum after 3 minutes.
- Be prepared for blockages in the future by using a hair strainer in your shower, and running hot water following each usage and avoiding the practice of pouring grease down your drains.
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 rag or cloth
Step 2. Prepare the Drain
Take off the shower drain cover if possible and use an e-brush or small toothbrush to get rid of any hair or other debris 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
Place one teaspoon of baking soda into the drainage, followed by one Cup of white vinegar. Then cover the drain immediately with a towel or rag so that the reaction doesn’t get beyond control!
Step 4: Wait
It should take about 30 minutes as the mix performs its magic. It should sound like there is a fizz and bubbling, which means it’s working!
Step 5: Drain using Boiling Water
Take the cover off with care and flush it out with hot water. This should help clear all debris remaining and help get your water flowing without a hitch.
Method 2: Wire Hanger
Sometimes all you require is a reliable wire hanger:
Step 1 1. Straighten It Out
Straighten out a wire hanger to the greatest extent as you can, but leave one end of the hanger in its original shape.
Step 2: Create an Hook
Create a small hook on the end of the wire that you just straightened.
Step 3: Go fishing for Hair and Debris
Hook it into the drain and search for hair and debris. Take out whatever comes up.
Method 3: Dry Vacuum Wet
If you’re in possession of dry or wet vacuums it could be suitable for you:
Step 1. Set the Vacuum
Set the vacuum on "liquids" as well as "wet" mode.
2. Cover Drainage
Overflow drains should be covered with the use of duct tape or a damp 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 remove any obstructions 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 |
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I tell when my shower drain has become blocked?
If your shower takes longer than normal to empty or if water is accumulating around your feet while you shower, it’s a sign that your drain is full or partial blocked. In addition, an unpleasant odor emanating from the shower may also be a sign of a blocked drain.
What are some natural ways to free a shower drain?
You could try pouring boiling water into the drain, followed by the baking soda mixture and then vinegar. You can also use an amalgamation of baking soda and salt followed by boiling water. A plunger to drain the sewage plunger can also aid.
Do I need to use chemical drain cleaners to unblock my shower drain?
It’s not recommended to use chemical drain cleaners since they are laden with harsh chemicals that can damage the pipes over time. These chemicals can also harm the environment and pose health risk to those who use them incorrectly.
When should I call an experienced plumber to fix my blocked shower drain?
If your DIY solutions don’t succeed in unblocking your shower drain, it’s recommended to speak with a professional plumbing company like Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbing in Melbourne for assistance. Other indications that you require assistance from a professional include the water coming out of the toilet or other drains, weird gurgling sounds from pipes or smells that are foul from the drains despite cleaning them.
How much will it cost to get a blocked shower drain fixed by an experienced plumber?
The cost for fixing a blocked shower drain can differ depending on the extent of the issue and the location you live. In the average, it will cost between $100 and $300 for a plumber to remove a shower drain. However, more severe situations which require pipe repair or replacements could cost anywhere from $500 to $1000.
Conclusion
Unblocking a shower drain can be a hassle, but there are many alternative methods you can try before using harsh chemicals. If you decide to use vinegar and baking soda, a wire hanger or a wet/dry vacuum, be sure to avoid future blockages by installing a hair strainer inside your shower as well as running hot water in the shower after every use, and avoid pouring grease into your drains. If none of these options perform, it could be an appropriate time to seek professional assistance. If you’re dealing with stubborn or declining plumbing problems within Melbourne , contact Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbing today!
Additional Information
- Discover the best clogged drain solution you need today
- The Ultimate Drain Unblocker: Why Jetting is the Way to Go
- Uncovering the Root Causes of Blocked Drains
- Save Future Expenses with CCTV Drain Inspection for Home Buyers
- Bid farewell to a Blocked Shower Drain with The following Comprehensive Guide
- Why Calling a Pro for Drain Cleaning is Safer and Smarter
- 5 Ways to Keep Your Drains Clear and Running Smoothly
- From Blocked to Free-flowing: Drainage Solutions for Blocked Pipes
- High Pressure Drain Cleaning: The Key to a Robust Plumbing System
- Prevent Blocked Drains Now: Know the Common Causes
