How to Unblock a Shower Drain Without Chemicals
If you’ve ever taken a shower only to realize that the water doesn’t drain it, you’re aware of how annoying it can be. It’s not just slowing the morning routine, it also makes it harder to clean up after you’re finished. Although chemical drain cleaners can be sometimes effective, they may also damage the pipes as well as harm the environment. The good news is that there are plenty of natural methods to clear the shower drain without using harmful chemicals.
Key Takeaways
- Chemical drain cleaners may harm pipes and the environment.
- There are many natural methods to get rid of the blockage in a shower by using vinegar and baking soda and a wire hanger or a dry/wet vacuum.
- To make use of baking soda and vinegar method: gather supplies, remove drain cover and debris, then pour baking soda and vinegar. Allow 30 minutes, then flush with boiling water.
- Wire hanger method Straighten the wire hanger while leaving the other end in its original form Create a hook at the top, and then place it in the drain to fish hair and debris out.
- For wet/dry vacuums select the "wet" mode then cover the drains of overflow using cloth or tape. attach hose creating an air-tight seal. Then turn to the mode for 3 minutes.
- To prevent future blockages, use hair strainers in your shower. You can also run hot water after every use and refraining from pouring grease down your drains.
Method 1 Method 1: Baking 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
Get rid of the shower drain cover If you can, and then use the small brush or toothbrush to scrub dirt or hair the drain’s edges. Make sure to wear rubber gloves, if needed.
Step 3. Pour in Baking Soda along with Vinegar
Pour one cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by one cup white vinegar. Then cover this drain immediately with a towel or a towel to ensure that the reaction doesn’t fizz out of control!
Step 4: Wait
Wait for about 30 minutes while the mixture works its magic. It should sound like there is a fizz and bubbling, which means it’s working!
Step 5: Clean with Boiling Water
Remove the cover carefully and flush with boiling water. This should help clear all debris remaining and help ensure that your water is flowing smoothly again.
Method 2: Wire Hanger
Sometimes all you need is a trusted wire hanger
Step 1 Straighten It Out
Straighten a wire hanger as straight as you can, but leave the other end as it was in its original form.
Step 2: Make an Hook
Create a small hook at the end of the wire you straightened.
Step 3: Fish for Hair and Debris
Insert the hook into the drain and look looking for hair as well as debris. Get rid of anything that comes up.
Method 3: Dry/Wet Vacuum
If you own dry or wet vacuums, this method might be for you:
Step 1. Set the Vacuum
Set the vacuum into "liquids" (or "wet" mode.
2. Cover Overflow Drain
Cover any overflow drains with duct tape or a wet cloth to ensure maximum suction power.
Step 3: Connect Hose to Drain
Attach the hose onto your drain to create an air-tight 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 do I know if my shower drain is clogged?
If your shower takes longer than usual to empty or if water is accumulating on your feet during your shower, it’s an indication that your drain could be completely or partially blocked. A sour smell emanating from the shower could indicate a blocked drain.
What are some natural ways to free a shower drain?
You could try pouring boiling water into the drain. It will be followed by baking soda and vinegar. You could also try a mixture of baking soda and salt and boiling water. The drain can be drained by a plunger could also be helpful.
Do I need to utilize chemical drain cleaners clear my shower?
It’s not advised to use chemical drain cleaners due to the fact that they contain harmful chemicals that could harm the pipes over time. They can also be harmful to the environment and pose health risk for those who use them in a way that isn’t safe.
What should I do if I need to call an experienced plumber to fix my blocked shower drain?
If DIY techniques don’t work in clearing the shower drain, then it’s advisable to get a professional plumber like Sydney Blocked Drain Plumbing in Sydney for assistance. Other signs that you need assistance from a professional include water leaking out of other drains or toilets, strange gurgling noises from pipes, or foul odors coming from the drains despite cleaning them.
How much will it cost to get a clogged shower drain cleared by a plumber?
The cost for fixing a blocked shower drain can differ depending on the extent of the issue and the location you reside. On average, it costs between $100-$300 for a plumber to clear a shower drain. However, more severe cases that require pipe repair or replacements can be priced between $500 and $1000.
Conclusion
Unblocking a shower drain could be stressful however there are numerous alternatives to try before turning to harsh chemicals. Whatever you decide to do, whether vinegar and baking soda, a wire hanger or a vacuum cleaner that is wet/dry, ensure you take the necessary steps to stop future blockages installing a hair strainer inside your shower, running hot water after every use, and avoid spilling grease into your drains. If none of these solutions work, it may be the time to seek professional help. If you’re dealing with stubborn or persistent plumbing problems in Sydney , contact Sydney Blocked Drain Plumbing today!
Additional Information
- The Fastest and Most Effective Solution: Blocked Drain Way to a Clearer System
- 5 Factors That Are Clogging Your Drains and How to Avoid Them
- Cut Costs and Hassle with Trenchless Pipe Replacement for Condos
- From A to Z Tricks for Cleaning Your Plumbing and Maintaining a Clog-Free House
- The Top Causes of Blocked Drains You Need to Know
- CCTV Drain Inspections: A faster, Accurate and Effective Means of Identifying Root Issues in Drains
- Prevent Expensive Repairs with Regular Drain Maintenance
- The Most Complete Guide to Clearing Clogged Drains: What Plumbers Utilize
- The Ultimate Guide on How to Clear a Blocked Drain in Your Home
- Plumbing Tips to Keep Your Pipes Running Smoothly
