How to Unblock a Shower Drain Without Chemicals
If you’ve ever stepped into a shower only to discover that the water hasn’t been draining and you’re frustrated, you’ll know how it could be. This not only slows down your morning routine it also makes it harder to clean up after having finished. Although chemical drain cleaners can be sometimes effective, they can also damage the pipes as well as harm the environment. The positive side lies in the a lot of natural ways to unblock the shower drain without resorting to harmful chemical solutions.
Key Takeaways
- Chemical drain cleaners can damage pipes and the surrounding environment.
- There are many natural methods to unblock the drain of a shower like baking soda, vinegar as well as a wire hanger or a dry/wet vacuum.
- To make use of baking soda and vinegar method: gather ingredients, unblock the drain cover and any garbage, pour baking soda, followed by vinegar. Allow 30 minutes before flushing with boiling water.
- Wire hanger method use a straight wire hanger, leaving one end in its original shape, create a hook at the end, then insert it down the drain, and then use it to pull hair and debris out.
- For wet/dry vacuums: set vacuum to "wet" mode, cover overflow drains by a cloth or tape, attach hose creating an air-tight seal then turn to the mode for 3 minutes.
- To prevent future blockages, use a hair strainer in your shower. Run hot water following each usage and avoiding pouring grease down your drains.
Method 1 Method 1: Bake Soda and Vinegar
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
To begin to begin, collect the following items:
- 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 tiny brushes or a toothbrush to scrub the hairs or any other obstruction around the edges of the drain. Make sure to wear rubber gloves when you need to.
Step 3. Pour in Baking Soda in addition to Vinegar
Pour one cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by one cup of white vinegar. Make sure to cover the drain immediately using a cloth or a rag to ensure that the reaction doesn’t explode beyond control!
Step 4: Wait
Wait for about 30 minutes as the mix works its magic. You should hear some fizzing and bubbling. That’s a sign that it’s working!
Step 5: Clean with Boiling Water
Clean the cover thoroughly and flush with boiling water. This will help remove any debris that remains and ensure that your water is flowing without a hitch.
Method 2: Wire Hanger
Sometimes all you need is a sturdy wire hanger:
Step 1 Step 1: Straighten It Out
Straighten out a wire hanger to the greatest extent as possible, leaving the other end of the hanger in its original shape.
Step 2: Make an Hook
Make a hook that is small at the end of the wire you just straightened.
Step 3: Search for Hair and Debris
Insert the hook into the drain and look looking for hair or debris. Remove anything that pops up.
Method 3: Dry/Wet Vacuum
If you’re in possession of an upright vacuum that is dry and wet, this method might be the best option for you.
Step 1: Set the Vacuum
The vacuum should be set in "liquids" and "wet" mode.
Stage 2: Seal Overflow Drain
Make sure to cover any drains that have overflows using duct tape or a moist cloth to ensure maximum suction power.
Step 3: Attach Hose to Drain
Attach the hose to your drain, making 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 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 |
FAQs
How do I know if my shower drains are blocked?
If your shower is taking longer than usual time to empty or the water is getting swollen on your feet during your shower, it’s a sign that your drain could be partially or fully clogged. Additionally, a foul odor emanating from the shower could indicate a blocked drain.
What are some natural ways to free a shower drain?
You can try pouring boiling water down the drain, then followed by baking soda and vinegar. You could also make a mix of baking soda and salt followed by boiling water. Swirling the drain with a plunger may also help.
Can I utilize chemical drain cleaners free my shower?
It’s not recommended to use chemical drain cleaners since they contain harsh chemicals that can damage the pipes in the long run. Chemicals can also damage the environment and pose health hazards for those who handle them in a way that isn’t safe.
When should I call an experienced plumber to fix my shower drain that is blocked?
If the DIY method doesn’t work in clearing your shower drain, it’s recommended to get a professional plumber like Local Sydney Blocked Drains in Sydney for help. Other indications that you require professional help include water leaking out of other drains or toilets, odd gurgling sounds coming from pipes or the smell of rotten food coming out of the drains after cleaning them.
How much does it cost to get a blocked shower drain cleared by plumbing experts?
The cost of fixing blocked shower drains can be different based on the severity of the issue and the location you live. In the average, it will cost between $100-$300 for a plumber who can unblock the shower drain. However, more severe situations that require pipe repair or replacements can cost as much as $500-$1000.
Conclusion
The process of unblocking the shower drain can be a hassle it is, however, there are a variety of natural methods to try before turning to harsh chemicals. It doesn’t matter if you use baking soda and vinegar, a wire hanger or a vacuum cleaner that is wet/dry, ensure you take the necessary steps to keep your drains from becoming blocked by installing a hair strainer inside your shower as well as running hot water in the shower after each use, and refraining from pouring grease into your drains. If none of these solutions work, it’s an appropriate time to seek professional help. If you’re having trouble with persistent or persistent plumbing issues with your plumbing in Sydney , contact Local Sydney Blocked Drains now!
Additional Information
- D. I.Y Drain Cleaning: The Risks and Benefits Compared to Professional Solutions
- Effortlessly and Without Effort Clear Your Drains with this Do-It-Yourself Guide
- Understanding CCTV Drain Inspection and the Benefits for Your Home
- Keep Your Drains Clear: 10 Tips to Avoid Blockages at Home
- Try these solutions to unclog your drain now
- Why Condo Complexes are Switching to Trenchless Pipe Relining Methods
- The Ultimate Guide on How to Clear a Blocked Drain in Your Home
- The Benefits of Using CCTV Drain Inspection for Pipe Relining Services
- Letting You See What's Hiding Beneath Your Prospective Property: The Benefits of CCTV Drain Inspection
- The Ultimate Guide to Prevent Drain Blockages
