How to Unblock a Shower Drain Without Chemicals
If you’ve ever stepped into a shower only to find that the water isn’t draining it, you’re aware of how annoying it could be. It’s not just slowing the morning routine, however, it can be harder to clean up after you’re finished. Although chemical drain cleaners can be sometimes effective, they can also damage your pipes and harm the environment. The positive side is the fact that you have plenty of natural ways to unblock a shower drain without resorting to harsh chemicals.
Key Takeaways
- Chemical drain cleaners could harm pipes and even the environment.
- There are a variety of natural ways to unblock the drain of a shower by using baking soda or vinegar and a wire hanger or a wet/dry vacuum.
- To make use of baking soda and vinegar method, gather materials, take off the cover for draining and any obstructions, and pour baking soda, followed by vinegar. Wait for 30 minutes then flush with boiling water.
- Wire hanger method to straighten wire hanger and leave the other end in its original shape Create a hook at the top, and then place it in the drain, and then use it to pull hair and debris out.
- To use wet/dry vacuum method select the "wet" mode Cover drains that overflow with tape or cloth, connect the hose to create an airtight seal, then turn off the vacuum after three minutes.
- To prevent future blockages, use a hair strainer in your shower, running hot water after each use, and not running grease down your drains.
Method 1: Bake Soda and Vinegar
Step 1: Gather Your Equipment
To start you can gather the following items:
- Baking soda
- White vinegar
- Boiling water
- Rubber gloves (optional)
- A cloth or rag
Step 2: Clean the Drain
Get rid of the shower drain cover as much as you can and use the small brush or brush to clean all hair and other particles from the drain’s edges. Make sure to wear rubber gloves if necessary.
Step 3: Add Baking Soda along with Vinegar
Put one cup baking soda in the sink followed by one cup white vinegar. Cover your drain immediately using a cloth or a rag to ensure the reaction doesn’t go beyond control!
Step 4: Wait
You should wait for around 30 minutes while the mixture does its work. There should be a sound of fizzing and bubbling, which means it’s working!
Step 5: Clean using Boiling Water
Clean the cover thoroughly and flush it out with hot water. This should clear any remaining debris and allow your water to flow without a hitch.
Method 2: Wire Hanger
Sometimes all you require is a reliable wire hanger:
Step 1 Straighten It Out
Straighten a wire hanger as straight as possible, leaving one end of the hanger in its original shape.
Step 2: Make a Hook
Make a small hook at the end of the wire you just straightened.
Step 3: Search for Hair and Debris
Put the hook in the drain and search to look for hair and debris. Pull out anything that comes up.
Method 3: Dry Vacuum Wet
If you own a wet/dry vacuum This method could be for you:
Step 1. Set the Vacuum
The vacuum should be set in "liquids" (or "wet" mode.
Stage 2: Seal Drainage
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: Connect Hose to drain
Connect the hose to your drain, creating an airtight seal.
Step 4: Turn on Vacuum
Start the vacuum, and allow it to run for approximately three minutes. This will help clear any obstructions in 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 |
Common Questions & Answers
How do I know whether my shower drain is blocked?
If your shower takes longer than usual to empty or if water is accumulating around your feet as you shower, it’s a sign that your drain is full or partial blocked. Also, a smell of rottenness coming from the shower area could indicate a blocked drain.
What are some natural ways to unblock the shower drain?
You can try pouring boiling water down the drain, followed by baking soda and vinegar. You can also use a mix of salt and baking soda, followed by boiling water. Swirling the drain with a plunger might also help.
Can I employ chemical drain cleaners in order to unblock my shower drain?
It’s not recommended to use chemical drain cleaners due to the fact that they contain toxic chemicals that can harm your pipes over time. They can also be harmful to the surroundings and pose health risks for those who handle them improperly.
When should I call a professional plumber about my shower drain that is blocked?
If your DIY solutions don’t succeed in clearing your shower drain, it’s best to speak with a professional plumbing company like Blocked Drains Plumbers Sydney in Sydney to get help. Other indicators that you may require professional assistance include water leaking out of the toilet or other drains, odd gurgling sounds coming from pipes or odors of foul smells emanating out of the drains after cleaning them.
How much will it cost to have a blocked shower drain cleared by plumbing experts?
The cost of fixing blocked shower drains can be different based on the severity of the problem and where you live. On average, it costs between $100 and $300 for a plumber to clear a shower drain. However, more severe situations that require pipe repairs or replacements can cost upwards of $500-$1000.
Conclusion
Clearing out a blocked shower drain can be a hassle, but there are a variety of alternative methods you can try before turning to harsh chemicals. Whether you choose baking soda and vinegar, 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, running hot water after every use, and avoid using grease down your drains. If none of these solutions succeed, it’s an appropriate time to seek professional help. If you’re experiencing a lot of trouble or declining plumbing problems with your plumbing in Sydney , contact Blocked Drains Plumbers Sydney now!
Additional Information
- Unblock Your Drains with Ease: Discover the Power of Blocked Drain Jetting
- How CCTV Drain Inspection Helps in Saving Time and Money on Plumbing Repairs?
- Say Goodbye to Clogged Pipes: Efficient Plumbing Remedies
- The Importance of Professional Drain Cleaning for Your Family's Health and Safety
- Reasons Why CCTV Drain Inspection is a Must Before Purchasing a Property
- CCTV Drain Inspection: Find Out How it Helps Pinpoint Root Infiltration in Your Pipes
- Plumbers' Secrets for Clearing Clogged Drains: An In-Depth Guide
- Using the Power of High Pressure Drain Cleaning
- The Benefits of CCTV Drain Inspection: Beyond Unclogging Pipes
- The Top Causes of Blocked Drains You Need to Know
