There’s nothing quite like the relaxing feeling of a warm shower, until you look down and see your feet slowly submerging in a growing puddle. That telltale sign of a clogged drain is almost always caused by a tangled mat of hair and soap scum. It’s a common household annoyance, but before you reach for harsh chemical drain cleaners, there are several simple and effective ways to tackle the problem yourself.
The Simple Boiling Water Method
Sometimes, the easiest solution is the most effective. If your drain is draining slowly but isn’t completely stopped, boiling water can be a great first step. The heat can help melt and break down the greasy soap residue that’s holding the hair clump together. Carefully pour a full kettle of boiling water directly down the drain. Wait a few minutes to see if the water begins to flow more freely. For minor clogs, this might be all you need.
Using a Trusty Plunger
You might associate plungers with toilets, but a standard cup plunger can work wonders on a shower drain. Ensure there’s enough water in the shower base to cover the rubber cup of the plunger. You’ll want to create a tight seal over the drain opening. Then, use forceful, rapid pushes and pulls for about 20 seconds. The pressure can often dislodge a hair clog that’s sitting just below the surface. It’s a quick, physical method that doesn’t require any special tools.
The Power of a Drain Snake
For a more stubborn clog, a drain snake (or auger) is your best friend. This is a long, flexible metal cable that you feed down the drain until you feel resistance. Once you’ve reached the clog, you rotate the handle, which allows the coiled end to grab onto the hair. You can then pull the entire mess back out. You can find inexpensive plastic drain snakes at most hardware stores that are specifically designed for hair. They are reusable and offer a very direct, satisfying solution.
Preventing Future Clogs
An ounce of prevention is truly worth a pound of cure when it comes to shower drains. Consider installing a hair catcher or drain cover. These inexpensive mesh or plastic screens sit over your drain and catch hair before it has a chance to travel down the pipes. They are incredibly easy to clean and can save you from frequent clog-clearing sessions. Making it a habit to remove visible hair from the drain after every shower also makes a huge difference.
Dealing with a hair-clogged drain doesn’t have to be a stressful chore. By starting with gentle methods like boiling water and moving to more hands-on tools like a plunger or snake, you can usually solve the problem quickly and safely. With a simple drain cover in place, you can spend less time clearing clogs and more time enjoying your shower.