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 doesn’t drain it, you’re aware of how annoying it could be. This not only slows down your morning routine however, it can be harder to clean up after having finished. While chemical drain cleaners are occasionally effective, they could also damage your pipes and harm the environment. The good news is that there are a lot of ways that you can unblock a shower drain without using harsh chemical solutions.
Key Takeaways
- Chemical drain cleaners can harm pipes and the environment.
- There are natural ways to get rid of the blockage in a shower by using vinegar and baking soda and a wire hanger or a wet/dry vacuum.
- To make use of the baking soda method and vinegar: Gather ingredients, unblock the drain cover and other debris, then pour baking soda in, then vinegar, wait for 30 minutes before flushing with boiling water.
- For wire hanger methods use a straight wire hanger while leaving the other end in its original shape Create a hook at the end, insert it down the drain and let it catch hair and other debris out.
- Method for wet/dry vacuums switch the vacuum to "wet" mode Cover drains that overflow with tape or cloth, connect the hose to create an airtight seal, then turn to the mode for 3 minutes.
- Be prepared for blockages in the future by using a hair strainer in your shower, running hot water after every use, and not running grease down your drains.
Method 1 Method 1: Baking Soda and Vinegar
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
To begin 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 you can, and then use a small brush or toothbrush to get rid of any hair or other debris around the drain’s edges. Be sure to wear rubber gloves if necessary.
Step 3. Pour in Baking Soda and Vinegar
Pour one cup of baking soda down the drain followed by a cup white vinegar. Then cover this drain immediately using a cloth or a rag to ensure that the reaction doesn’t get into chaos!
Step 4: Wait
Wait for about 30 minutes as the mix is at work. It should sound like there is a fizz and bubbling. This means it’s working!
Step 5: Drain with Boiling Water
Remove the cover carefully and flush it out with hot water. This will clear any debris that remains and get your water flowing smoothly again.
Method 2: Wire Hanger
Sometimes all you require is a sturdy wire hanger
Step 1 Step 1: Straighten It Out
Straighten a wire hanger as straight as you can while leaving one end with its original shape.
Step 2: Make an Hook
Make a hook that is small at the top of the wire that you have just straightened.
Step 3: Fish for hair and Debris
Place the hook in the drain and search to look for hair and debris. Remove anything that pops up.
Method 3: Dry Vacuum Wet
If you’re in possession of an upright vacuum that is dry and wet, this method might be for you.
Step 1: Set the Vacuum
Set the vacuum in "liquids" or "wet" mode.
2. Cover Overflow Drain
Overflow drains should be covered with the use of duct tape or a damp cloth to ensure the highest suction power.
Step 3: Connect Hose to drain
Connect the hose to your drain, creating an air-tight seal.
Step 4: Turn on Vacuum
Turn on the vacuum and let it run for approximately three minutes. This should eliminate any blockages 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
How can I tell if my shower drains are clogged?
If your shower takes longer than usual to empty or if you notice that water is collecting around your feet as you shower, it’s an indication that your drain may be partially or fully clogged. Also, a smell of rottenness emanating from the shower could also indicate a clogged drain.
What are some natural ways to unblock a shower drain?
You could try pouring boiling water down the drain, followed by vinegar, baking soda, and. You could also try the mixture of salt and baking soda followed by boiling water. Swirling the drain with a plunger might also help.
Do I need to employ chemical drain cleaners in order to clear my shower?
It is not recommended to use chemical drain cleaners as they are laden with harsh chemicals that can damage the pipes in the long run. These chemicals also can harm the environment and pose health risk for those who use them incorrectly.
What should I do if I need to call a professional plumber for my blocked shower drain?
If DIY methods don’t work in clearing your shower drain, it’s best to speak with a professional plumbing company like Sydney Blocked Drain Plumbing in Sydney for help. Other signs that you should seek professional assistance include the water coming out of other drains or toilets strange noises of pipes gurgling or odors of foul smells emanating from the drains despite cleaning them.
What is the cost to get a blocked shower drain fixed by plumbing experts?
The cost to fix an unblocking shower drain could differ depending on the extent of the issue and where you reside. On average, it costs between $100-$300 for a plumber to clear a shower drain. However, more severe situations that require pipe repairs or replacements could cost upwards of $500-$1000.
Conclusion
The process of unblocking the shower drain can be frustrating, but there are many alternatives to try before turning to harsh chemicals. If you decide to use baking soda and vinegar, a wire hanger or a dry/wet vacuum, remember to take steps to avoid future blockages by using a hair strainer in your shower and running hot water after every use, and avoid the practice of pouring grease into your drains. If these strategies don’t succeed, it’s time to get professional assistance. If you’re dealing with stubborn or persistent plumbing problems with your plumbing in Sydney , contact Sydney Blocked Drain Plumbing today!
Additional Information
- The Dangers of Neglecting a Blocked Drain and What You Should Do
- A Guide to Locating and Pinpointing a Obstructed Pipe
- The Fastest and Most Effective Solution: Blocked Drain Way to a Clearer System
- The Most Complete Guide to Clearing Clogged Drains: What Plumbers Utilize
- Welcome to clear drains with these powerful remedies
- 5 Factors That Are Clogging Your Drains and How to Avoid Them
- The Benefits of CCTV Drain Inspection: Beyond Unclogging Pipes
- Cut Costs and Hassle with Trenchless Pipe Replacement for Condos
- Tips to Understand When it's Time to Pick Up the Phone for Professional Drain Cleaning
- Delving into Reasons for Clogged Drains
