How to Unblock a Shower Drain Without Chemicals
If you’ve ever taken a shower and realized that the water hasn’t been draining it, you’re aware of how annoying it is. Not only can it slow the morning routine, but it can also be difficult to clean when you’re done. Although chemical drain cleaners can be occasionally effective, they can also damage your pipes and cause harm to the environment. The positive side lies in the plenty of natural methods to clear a shower drain without using harsh chemicals.
Key Takeaways
- Chemical drain cleaners can damage pipes and the surrounding 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 wet/dry vacuum.
- To use baking soda and vinegar method: gather ingredients, unblock the drain cover and other obstructions, and pour baking soda and vinegar, wait for 30 minutes and then flush with boiling water.
- For wire hanger methods use a straight wire hanger leaving one end as it was Create a hook at the end and insert it into the drain to catch hair and other debris out.
- For wet/dry vacuums select the "wet" mode Cover drains that overflow with tape or cloth, join the hose and create an airtight seal, then turn it on for three minutes.
- Avoid future blockages by using hair strainers in your shower, and running hot water following each use and avoiding pouring grease down your drains.
Method 1 Method 1: Making a cake with baking Soda and Vinegar
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
To begin take the following steps:
- Baking soda
- White vinegar
- Boiling water
- Rubber gloves (optional)
- A cloth or rag
Step 2: Clean the Drain
Take off the shower drain cover whenever possible. Use a small brush or toothbrush to scrub dirt or hair from the drain’s edges. Make sure you 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 a cup white vinegar. It is best to protect your drain immediately using a cloth or a towel to ensure that the reaction doesn’t fizz out of control!
Step 4: Wait
It should take about 30 minutes while the mixture performs its magic. You should hear some fizzing and bubbling, which means it’s working!
Step 5: Drain with Boiling Water
Remove the cover carefully and flush the water with boiling. This should clear any debris left behind and 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 a wire hanger to the greatest extent as you can while leaving the other end of the hanger in its original shape.
Step 2: Make an Hook
Make a small hook at the end of the wire you straightened.
Step 3: Look for hair and Debris
Put the hook in the drain, and then fish to look for hairs and debris. Remove anything that pops up.
Method 3: Dry/Wet Vacuum
If you’re able to access a wet/dry vacuum This method could be the best option for you.
Step 1: Set the Vacuum
Set the vacuum into "liquids" (or "wet" mode.
Stage 2: Seal Drainage
Make sure to cover any drains that have overflows using duct tape or a moist cloth to ensure maximum suction power.
Step 3: Connect Hose to drain
Attach the hose to your drain, creating an airtight seal.
Step 4: Turn on Vacuum
Turn on the vacuum and allow it to run for approximately three minutes. This will help clear 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 |
FAQ
What can I tell if my shower drains are blocked?
If your shower is taking longer than normal to empty or if you notice that water is collecting around your feet as you shower, it’s a sign that your drain is full or partial blocked. A sour smell coming from the shower area could also indicate a clogged drain.
What are some natural ways to unblock the shower drain?
You can try pouring boiling water into the drain. It will be followed by baking soda and vinegar. You could also make the mixture of baking soda and salt followed by boiling water. Plunging the drain with a plunger might also help.
Can I employ chemical drain cleaners in order to unblock my shower drain?
It’s not advised to use chemical drain cleaners since they contain toxic chemicals that can harm the pipes over time. They can also be harmful to the environment and pose health hazards for those who handle them improperly.
When should I get in touch with a professional plumber about my shower drain that is blocked?
If DIY methods don’t work to clear your shower drain, it’s best to get a professional plumber such as Sydney Blocked Drain Plumbing in Sydney for help. Other indications that you require assistance from a professional include water leaking out of other toilets or drains, weird gurgling sounds from pipes or the smell of rotten food coming from the drains despite cleaning them.
How much will it cost to fix a clogged shower drain fixed by a plumber?
The price of repairing the problem of a blocked shower drain will vary depending on the severity of the issue and the location you reside. On average, it costs between $100 and $300 for a plumber to clear the shower drain. However, more severe situations that require pipe repair or replacements could cost as much as $500-$1000.
Conclusion
Unblocking a shower drain can be a hassle however there are many alternatives to try before turning to harsh chemicals. Whether you choose vinegar and baking soda, a wire hanger or a wet/dry vacuum ensure you take the necessary steps to stop future blockages using a hair strainer in your shower as well as running hot water in the shower after every use, and avoid spilling grease down your drains. If none of these solutions work, it’s an appropriate time to seek professional assistance. If you’re experiencing a lot of trouble or having trouble with plumbing problems at Sydney , contact Sydney Blocked Drain Plumbing today!
Additional Information
- Don't Let These Common Mistakes Clog Your Pipes
- Clearing a Jammed Shower Drain: Go through This Detailed Handbook
- Welcome to clear drains with these powerful remedies
- The Benefits of CCTV Drain Inspection: Beyond Unclogging Pipes
- End Clogged Pipes Now: Professional Tips to Try Immediately
- Why Pipe Relining is a Cost-Effective Solution for your Business’ Plumbing Issues?
- Plumbing Tips to Keep Your Pipes Running Smoothly
- Top Reasons to Avoid DIY Drain Unblocking
- Save Future Expenses with CCTV Drain Inspection for Home Buyers
- The Most Complete Guide to Clearing Clogged Drains: What Plumbers Utilize
