How to Unblock a Shower Drain Without Chemicals
If you’ve ever taken a shower and realized that the water hasn’t been draining, you know how frustrating it can be. Not only does it slow down your morning routine, it could also make it more difficult to clean when you’re done. Although chemical drain cleaners are occasionally effective, they could also damage your pipes and harm the environment. The positive side is the fact that you have plenty of methods that are natural to unblock a shower drain without resorting to harsh chemicals.
Key Takeaways
- Chemical drain cleaners could harm pipes and the surrounding environment.
- There are a variety of natural ways to get rid of the blockage in a shower for example, vinegar and baking soda, a wire hanger, or a wet/dry vacuum.
- To use baking soda and vinegar method, gather items, clean the cover for draining and any debris, then pour in baking soda followed by vinegar. Wait 30 minutes and then flush with boiling water.
- For wire hanger methods to straighten wire hanger leaving one end in its original form Create a hook at the top, and then place it in the drain to fish hair and debris out.
- Method for wet/dry vacuums: set vacuum to "wet" mode and cover drains overflowing by a cloth or tape, connect the hose to create an airtight seal, then turn to the mode for three minutes.
- Prevent future blockages by using a hair strainer in your shower, and running hot water after every use and avoiding using grease to clean your drains.
Method 1: Bake Soda and Vinegar
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
To start to begin, collect the following items:
- Baking soda
- White vinegar
- Boiling water
- Rubber gloves (optional)
- A cloth or rag
Step 2. Prepare the Drain
Get rid of the shower drain cover if possible and use a small brush or toothbrush to get rid of any hair or other debris the drain’s edges. Make sure you wear rubber gloves, if needed.
Step 3: Add Baking Soda along with Vinegar
Put one cup baking soda in the sink followed by one Cup of white vinegar. Make sure to cover with a rag or cloth. Cover the drain immediately using a cloth or a rag to ensure that the reaction doesn’t go out of control!
Step 4: Wait
It should take about 30 minutes as the mix is at work. There should be some sound and bubbling. This means it’s working!
Step 5: Drain using Boiling Water
Clean the cover thoroughly and flush with boiling water. This should clear all debris remaining and help allow your water to flow freely.
Method 2: Wire Hanger
Sometimes all you need is a reliable wire hanger
Step 1 Straighten It Out
Straighten the wire hanger as far as you can while leaving the other end with its original shape.
Step 2: Create an Hook
Make a small hook at the top of the wire that you just straightened out.
Step 3: Go fishing for hair and Debris
Insert the hook into the drain and search to look for hair as well as debris. Pull out anything that comes up.
Method 3: Dry/Wet Vacuum
If you have access to dry or wet vacuums it could be for you.
Step 1: Set the Vacuum
Set the vacuum in "liquids" as well as "wet" mode.
Second Step: Close 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, making an airtight seal.
Step 4: Turn on Vacuum
Then, turn on the vacuum and let it run for about 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 whether my shower drain is blocked?
If your shower takes longer than usual time to empty, or water is pooling around your feet as you shower, it’s a sign that your drain may be full or partial blocked. In addition, an unpleasant odor coming from the shower area could be an indication of a blocked drain.
What are the best natural methods to clear a shower drain?
You can try pouring boiling water down the drain, followed with baking soda, vinegar and. It is also possible to use an amalgamation of baking soda and salt followed by boiling water. Swirling the drain with a plunger may also help.
Do I need to make use of chemical drain cleaners to remove the blockage in my shower?
It’s not recommended to utilize chemical drain cleaners because they contain toxic chemicals that can harm your pipes over time. Chemicals can also damage the environment and pose health hazards to those who use them incorrectly.
When should I call an experienced plumber to fix my shower drain that is blocked?
If your DIY solutions don’t succeed to clear your shower drain, it’s best to get a professional plumber like Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbing in Melbourne for help. Other signs that you should seek assistance from a professional include water leaking out of other drains or toilets, strange noises of pipes gurgling, or foul odors coming out of the drains after cleaning them.
How much does it cost to have a blocked shower drain cleared by a plumber?
The cost of fixing the problem of a blocked shower drain will vary depending on the severity of the issue and where you live. It is typically between $100 and $300 for a plumber to remove a shower drain. However, more severe cases that require pipe repairs or replacements can cost as much as $500-$1000.
Conclusion
Unblocking a shower drain can be frustrating, but there are numerous alternatives to try before turning to harsh chemicals. Whatever you decide to do, whether baking soda and vinegar, a wire hanger, or a wet/dry vacuum ensure you take the necessary steps to avoid future blockages by installing a hair strainer inside your shower, running hot water after every use, and avoid the practice of pouring grease down your drains. If none of these options perform, it could be time to get professional help. If you’re dealing with stubborn or persistent plumbing issues in Melbourne , contact Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbing now!
Additional Information
- From A to Z Tips for Cleaning Your Drains and Maintaining a Clog-Free House
- CCTV Drain Inspection: The Key to Resolving Blocked Drains Quickly
- CCTV Drain Inspection: Find Out How it Helps Pinpoint Root Infiltration in Your Pipes
- 10 Effortless Methods for Fixing a Clogged Drain
- The Ultimate Guide to Drain Clearing Services
- Avoid Expensive Repairs with Regular CCTV Drain Inspections
- 5 Ways to Keep Your Drains Clear and Running Smoothly
- From Blocked to Free-flowing: Drainage Solutions for Blocked Pipes
- Why Pipe Relining is a Cost-Effective Solution for your Business’ Plumbing Issues?
- Unblocking Blocked Drains: How to Choose Between DIY or Professional Services
