How to Unblock a Shower Drain Without Chemicals
If you’ve ever stepped into a shower and realized that the water isn’t draining and you’re frustrated, you’ll know how it is. This not only slows down your morning routine, it also makes it harder to clean up after you’re finished. Although chemical drain cleaners can be sometimes effective, they may also damage the pipes as well as harm the environment. The positive side is there’s plenty of methods that are natural to unblock the shower drain, without the need for harmful chemical solutions.
Key Takeaways
- Chemical drain cleaners can harm pipes and the environment.
- There are a variety of natural ways to unblock a shower drain like vinegar and baking soda as well as a wire hanger or a dry/wet vacuum.
- To make use of the baking soda method and vinegar: gather ingredients, unblock drain cover and debris, then pour baking soda in, then vinegar, wait for 30 minutes, then flush with boiling water.
- Wire hanger method to straighten wire hanger while leaving the other end as it was Make a hook at the end, then insert it into the drain and let it catch hair and other debris out.
- If you want to use the dry/wet vacuum method select the "wet" mode, cover overflow drains with cloth or tape, attach hose creating an air-tight seal. Then turn to the mode for 3 minutes.
- Be prepared for blockages in the future by using a hair strainer in your shower. You can also run hot water after each use and avoiding pouring grease down your drains.
Method 1: Making a cake with baking Soda and Vinegar
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
To start, gather 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 as much as you can and use an e-brush or small toothbrush to scrub any hair or other debris from the edges of the drain. Wear rubber gloves in the event of need.
Step 3: Pour in Baking Soda as well as Vinegar
Place one teaspoon of baking soda into the drainage, followed by one cup of white vinegar. It is best to protect this drain immediately using a cloth or rag so that the reaction doesn’t explode beyond control!
Step 4: Wait
Wait for about 30 minutes as the mix works its magic. It should sound like there is a fizz and bubbling. That’s a sign that it’s working!
Step 5: Drain with Boiling Water
Take the cover off with care and flush with boiling water. This should clear all debris remaining and help ensure that your water is flowing smoothly again.
Method 2: Wire Hanger
Sometimes all you need is a trusty wire hanger:
Step 1 Straighten It Out
Straighten out a wire hanger to the greatest extent as possible, leaving one end as it was in its original form.
Step 2: Create a Hook
Create a small hook at the top of the wire that you just straightened out.
Step 3: Look for Hair and Debris
Insert the hook into the drain, and then fish to look for hair or debris. Pull out anything that comes up.
Method 3: Wet/Dry Vacuum
If you own an upright vacuum that is dry and wet This method could be the best option for you.
Step 1. Set the Vacuum
Set the vacuum into "liquids" as well as "wet" mode.
Second Step: Close Overflow Drain
Make sure to cover any drains that have overflows using either duct tape or wet cloth to ensure the highest suction power.
Step 3: Connect Hose to drain
Attach the hose to your drain, creating an air-tight seal.
Step 4: Turn on Vacuum
Then, turn on the vacuum and allow it to run for approximately three minutes. This will help clear any obstructions 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 |
Common Questions & Answers
How do I know if my shower drains are blocked?
If your shower is taking longer than usual to fill or if water is accumulating on your feet during your shower, it’s an indication that your drain might be completely or partially blocked. Additionally, a foul odor coming from the shower area may also be a sign of a blocked drain.
What are the best natural methods to free a shower drain?
You could try pouring boiling water into the drain, followed by the baking soda mixture and then vinegar. You could also try an amalgamation of baking soda and salt and boiling water. Plunging the drain with a plunger may also help.
Can I make use of chemical drain cleaners to remove the blockage in my shower?
It’s not advised to use chemical drain cleaners since they contain toxic chemicals that can harm your pipes over time. Chemicals can also damage the surroundings and pose health risks for those who handle them incorrectly.
What should I do if I need to call a professional plumber for my shower drain that is blocked?
If your DIY solutions don’t succeed in clearing the shower drain, it’s best to call a professional plumber such as Local Sydney Blocked Drains in Sydney for help. Other indicators that you may require professional help are water backing up out of other toilets or drains, strange noises of pipes gurgling or smells that are foul from the drains even after cleaning them.
How much does it cost to get a blocked shower drain cleared by plumbing experts?
The cost for fixing a blocked shower drain can differ based on the severity of the issue as well as where you live. It is typically between $100 and $300 for a plumber to clear the shower drain. However, more severe situations that require pipe repair or replacement could cost as much as $500-$1000.
Conclusion
Unblocking a shower drain could be stressful and time-consuming, but there are numerous alternatives to try before making the switch to harsh chemicals. Whether you choose vinegar and baking soda, a wire hanger or a wet/dry vacuum make sure you stop future blockages making use of a hair strainer in your shower and running hot water after every use, and avoid pouring grease into your drains. If these methods don’t perform, it could be an appropriate time to seek professional assistance. If you’re experiencing a lot of trouble or declining plumbing issues in Sydney , contact Local Sydney Blocked Drains today!
Additional Information
- Try these solutions to unclog your drain now
- The Importance of CCTV Drain Inspection in Commercial Properties
- Understanding Issues with Blocked Drainage
- Effortlessly and Without Effort Clear Your Drains with this Do-It-Yourself Guide
- The Ultimate Guide on How to Clear a Blocked Drain in Your Home
- Methods to Fix a Bathroom Drain: A Simple Fix Necessary
- Maximizing the Benefits of a CCTV Drain Inspection: Preparations You Should Make
- Keep Your Drains Clear: 10 Tips to Avoid Blockages at Home
- Avoid Drain Blockages: Tips to Steer Clear of These 5 Common Triggers
- Understanding CCTV Drain Inspection and the Benefits for Your Home
