There’s nothing quite like the sinking feeling of watching the water in your shower stall slowly rise around your ankles. A clogged drain is a common household headache, and more often than not, the culprit is a tangled mass of hair. Before you reach for harsh chemical drain cleaners, know that there are gentler, more effective ways to tackle the problem.
Not only are these methods better for your pipes and the environment, but they can also save you time, money, and a lot of frustration. With a few simple tools and techniques, you can have your water draining freely in no time.
Your First Line of Defense: The Trusty Plunger
Before you get your hands dirty, try a simple plunger. Ensure there’s enough water in the shower base to cover the rubber cup. For a better seal, you can use a wet rag to block the shower drain’s overflow opening. Plunge vigorously for about 20 seconds. The pressure created can often dislodge a hair clog that’s sitting just below the surface, making this a quick and easy first attempt.
Reaching for the Clog with a Drain Snake
If plunging doesn’t do the trick, it’s time to physically remove the hair. A drain snake, or auger, is a flexible tool designed to navigate pipe bends. Gently feed the snake into the drain until you feel resistance. Rotate the handle to hook the clog, then slowly pull it out. You’ll likely be greeted by a messy but satisfying clump of hair. For a DIY version, straighten a wire coat hanger, create a small hook at one end, and use it to fish out the blockage.
Preventing Future Clogs with a Simple Tool
An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, and this is especially true for shower drains. The simplest and most effective tool is a drain cover. A basic metal or silicone hair catcher costs very little and sits over your drain, trapping hair before it can cause problems. Get into the habit of clearing the catcher after every shower and giving it a quick rinse. This small routine can completely eliminate major clogs.
A Gentle, Natural Cleaning Solution
For maintenance and to tackle slow-draining pipes, a natural cleaner can help break down the greasy film that hair sticks to. Once a month, pour half a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by half a cup of white vinegar. Let this fizzy mixture sit for 15-30 minutes, then flush it with a pot of boiling hot water. This helps keep your pipes clear and odor-free without the corrosion risks of harsh chemicals.
Dealing with a hair-clogged shower drain doesn’t have to be a dreaded chore. By starting with simple physical removal and adopting a preventative mindset with a drain cover, you can keep the water flowing smoothly and save yourself from future plumbing emergencies.