How to Unblock a Shower Drain Without Chemicals
If you’ve ever had the misfortune of taking a shower and realized that the water hasn’t been draining and you’re frustrated, you’ll know how it is. This not only slows the morning routine, but it can also be 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 positive side is that there are plenty of natural methods to clear a shower drain, without the need for harmful chemical solutions.
Key Takeaways
- Chemical drain cleaners can harm pipes and the surrounding environment.
- There are many natural methods to unblock the drain of a shower, such as using vinegar and baking soda as well as a wire hanger or a dry/wet 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 then flush with boiling water.
- For wire hanger methods use a straight wire hanger and leave the other end in its original form Make a hook at the end, insert it down the drain and let it catch hair and debris out.
- Method for wet/dry vacuums Set the vacuum in "wet" mode and cover drains overflowing by a cloth or tape, connect the hose to create an airtight seal then turn it on for three minutes.
- Prevent future blockages by using a hair strainer in your shower, and running hot water after each use and avoiding pouring grease down 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
Clean the shower drain If you can, and then use the small brush or toothbrush to get rid of dirt or hair from the drain’s edges. Make sure to wear rubber gloves, if needed.
Step 3. Pour in Baking Soda along with Vinegar
Place one teaspoon of baking soda into the drainage, followed by a cup white vinegar. Cover this drain immediately with a cloth or a towel to ensure that the reaction doesn’t explode out of control!
Step 4: Wait
Take about 30 minutes as the mix performs its magic. It should sound like there is a fizz and bubbling. That’s a sign that it’s working!
Step 5: Rinse with Boiling Water
Take the cover off with care and flush it with boiling water. This will clear any debris that remains and allow your water to flow smoothly again.
Method 2: Wire Hanger
Sometimes all you require is a trusted wire hanger:
Step 1 1. Straighten It Out
Straighten a wire hanger as straight as possible, leaving the other end of the hanger in its original shape.
Step 2: Design a Hook
Create a small hook at the top of the wire you straightened out.
Step 3: Go fishing for hair and Debris
Hook it into the drain and fish around looking for hair as well as debris. Take out whatever comes up.
Method 3: Wet/Dry Vacuum
If you own a wet/dry vacuum the following method may be for you.
Step 1: Set the Vacuum
The vacuum should be set into "liquids" as well as "wet" mode.
Second Step: Close Overflow Drain
Make sure to cover any drains that have overflows using the use of duct tape or a damp cloth to ensure the highest suction power.
Step 3: Attach Hose to Drain
Attach the hose onto your drain, making an airtight seal.
Step 4: Turn on Vacuum
Start the vacuum, and let it run for about three minutes. This will help clear any blockages from the drain of your shower.
| 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
What can I tell whether my shower drain is blocked?
If your shower takes longer than usual to empty or the water is getting swollen on your feet during your shower, it’s a sign that your drain is partially or fully clogged. Also, a smell of rottenness emanating from the shower may also be a sign of a blocked drain.
What are the best natural methods to unblock the shower drain?
You can 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. The drain can be drained by a plunger might also help.
Can I use chemical drain cleaners to free my shower?
It is not recommended to use chemical drain cleaners due to the fact that they contain harsh chemicals that can cause damage to your pipes in the long run. These chemicals can also harm the environment and pose health risks to those who use the products improperly.
When should I call an experienced plumber to fix my blocked shower drain?
If the DIY method doesn’t work in unblocking your shower drain, it’s recommended to get a professional plumber like Sydney Plumber Blocked Drains in Sydney to get help. Other indicators that you may require professional help include the appearance of water in other drains or toilets, odd gurgling sounds coming from pipes or smells that are foul out of the drains after cleaning them.
How much will it cost to get a clogged shower drain cleared by an experienced plumber?
The price of repairing a blocked shower drain can differ depending on the extent of the problem and where you reside. It is typically between $100 and $300 for a plumber to clear a shower drain. However, more severe situations that require pipe repair or replacements could cost as much as $500-$1000.
Conclusion
The process of unblocking the shower drain can be stressful however there are a variety of ways to tackle the problem without resorting to harsh chemicals. If you decide to use vinegar and baking soda or a wire hanger or a wet/dry vacuum, be sure to keep your drains from becoming blocked by making use of a hair strainer in your shower as well as running hot water in the shower after every use, and avoid the practice of pouring grease down your drains. If none of these options perform, it could be time to call in professional help. If you’re having trouble with persistent and persistent plumbing problems with your plumbing in Sydney , contact Sydney Plumber Blocked Drains now!
Additional Information
- Blocked Drain Emergency? Here’s What You Need to Know About DIY vs. Professionals
- Simple Solutions for Clearing Out Clogged Drains at Home
- Clearing Blockages Made Easy: The Benefits of Blocked Drain Jetting
- 5 Reasons Why You Should Hire Professionals for Drain Cleaning Services
- Save Money and Time with Preventative Drain Care Practices
- Mastering High Pressure Drain Cleaning Completely
- The Ultimate Guide to Drain Clearing Services
- DIY Designed Simple: Easily Clear Your Clogged Drains
- How to Tell You Need Drain Clearing Services for Your Business
- How to Prevent Your Drains from Getting Blocked
