A clogged drain is a common problem in the bathroom. It can happen for several reasons, such as hair and soap scum buildup, or it could be caused by something more serious.
If you notice your shower drain not draining, don't worry — you don't need to call a plumber or spend hundreds of dollars on repairs right away! There are some solutions that will help you unclog your shower drain in no time at all.
Clogged shower drains can cause water to back up into other parts of your home (like sinks), which could lead to expensive damage if left untreated over time. This blog will explain the best ways to unclog a shower drain fast so you can be back to enjoying your shower in no time.
What Causes Shower Drain Clogs?
Shower drain clogs are typically caused by a buildup of hair, soap scum, skin cells, bath-product residue, and mineral deposits from hard water. Over time, these substances can slow drainage and lead to standing water, unpleasant odors, and a dirty appearance.
Installing a drain seal can help prevent odors and block debris from causing future clogs, ensuring your shower drain stays clear and odor-free. The Oatey Drain Seal is specially designed to prevent smelly pipes while allowing for continuous water drainage. Requiring no tools for installation, our Drain Seal works for showers or general-purpose floor drains in areas such as basements, garages, and laundry rooms.
4 Ways to Unclog a Shower Drain
If you have a clogged shower drain, there are several methods that can restore proper drainage. Whether you prefer using a commercial drain cleaner or a DIY drain unclogger, here are four ways to fix a clogged shower drain.
1. Mechanical Drain Openers
Before resorting to a chemical drain cleaner, try clearing the drain mechanically using tools like a plunger, drain snake, or drain flusher. These methods can effectively remove the clog and may prevent the need for harsher chemicals.
Using a Plunger:
- Remove the shower drain cover and clear any visible debris.
- Add enough water to cover the head of the plunger.
- Create a seal by placing the plunger over the drain, then push down and pull up quickly to create suction. Repeat this process several times.
- After plunging, check to see if the water drains freely. If it does, you've cleared the clog. If not, try using a drain snake or call a plumber.
Using a Drain Snake:
- Remove the drain cover and insert the head of the drain snake into the drain.
- Slowly feed the snake into the pipe while turning the handle to rotate the cable.
- Once you encounter resistance, rotate the snake back and forth to break apart or pull up the clog.
- After removing the clog, flush the drain with hot water to clear any remaining debris.
Using a Drain Flusher: A drain flusher quickly and efficiently clears clogs using pressurized water. This tool attaches to a standard ¾-inch garden hose fitting.
- Unscrew the aerator from the faucet and connect the drain flusher to the faucet using the provided adapter.
- Insert the nozzle of the drain flusher as far into the drain as possible, ensuring it’s in a straight pipe rather than a fitting.
- Slowly turn on the cold water to pressurize the drain flusher and deliver a blast of water to dislodge the clog.
- Once the clog is cleared, run additional water to flush out any remaining debris.
These mechanical methods are effective for most clogs but can sometimes push the problem further down the pipe. Always use caution; if the clog persists, it may be time to call a plumber.
Once the drain is cleared mechanically, you can use a drain cleaner to ensure the pipe remains free of debris and to address any lingering buildup.
2. Liquid Drain Opener
A liquid drain opener like Hercules Glug Bath Liquid Drain Opener is a powerful option for clearing common shower drain clogs, such as hair, soap scum, and other organic material. This solution works by dissolving clogs with bleach, making it ideal for stubborn bathroom sink and shower drain blockages.
How to use liquid drain cleaner:
- Place the bottle on a flat surface and carefully unscrew the cap without squeezing the bottle.
- Pour 16 fluid ounces of the drain opener down the clogged shower drain.
- Let the solution sit for 30 minutes, then flush the drain with warm water.
- For best results, allow the cleaner to sit overnight for a deeper clean.
This method effectively clears a clogged shower drain, but it’s important to note that regular use of a liquid drain opener may be necessary for long-term maintenance.
3. Crystal Drain Opener
For those who prefer a fast-acting solution, a crystal drain opener like Hercules Glug Crystals Drain Opener is another excellent choice. The powerful crystalline flakes dissolve hair, soap, and grease clogs quickly, making it ideal for sluggish shower drains.
How to use a crystal drain opener:
- Run hot water down the drain to warm the drain lines.
- Pour one cup (4 to 6 net weight ounces) of the Glug crystal drain opener into the drain.
- Let it dissolve by running more hot water through the drain.
- Wait a few minutes, then flush with additional hot water.
- Repeat this process monthly to keep your shower drain clear and prevent clogs from building up again.
4. Homemade Drain Cleaner
If you prefer a natural, DIY solution for clearing a clogged shower drain, there are some homemade drain opener options you can try:
- Homemade Mixture: Some individuals may prefer to try a natural mixture (baking soda, vinegar, or hot water) versus a chemical drain cleaner. Our experts note that this natural remedy may open a blockage only partially but never completely eradicate it. A chemical drain cleaner is a smart choice for a more long-term solution.
- Wire Coat Hanger: A wire coat hanger can be an effective tool for physically removing hair or gunk that may be causing a clog.
- Straighten the coat hanger and form a small hook at one end.
- Carefully insert the hook into the drain and gently pull out any hair or debris that's trapped inside.
- After removing visible clogs, pour hot water down the drain to help flush away any remaining residue.
- Avoid forcing the hanger too deep into the pipe, which could damage your plumbing.
While these natural drain uncloggers can be effective for minor clogs, they may not always fully clear tougher blockages. In such cases, you may want to follow up with a chemical drain cleaner or a DIY drain unblocker for a more thorough solution.
Note: With the exception of aluminum fixtures, Oatey drain cleaners are safe for use on porcelain plumbing fixtures, metal/plastic pipes, and septic systems. Each product is designed to deodorize and contains corrosion inhibitors to help prevent pipe damage.
When Should You Call a Plumber for a Clogged Drain?
If you’ve tried DIY methods and your shower drain is still clogged, it may be time to call in the pros. If the blockage persists after using a plunger, drain snake, or DIY drain cleaner, a plumber can assess the situation and use specialized tools to clear the drain effectively.
For more severe blockages, Oatey recommends Hercules Clobber, a powerful cleaner for organic material, which should only be used by licensed professionals. Similarly, if your drain is affected by scale, corrosion, or mineral buildup, products like Hercules Sizzle can help, but they also require professional application.
If you're unsure about the condition of your pipes, it's best to consult a plumber before using strong drain cleaners. A professional can safely remove stubborn blockages without damaging your plumbing system.
How to Prevent a Clogged Shower Drain
Maintenance is key in preventing future shower drain clogs. Following these steps can help:
- Regular cleaning: Use Hercules Glug to clear sluggish drains and prevent buildup. A monthly cleaning can help keep your shower drain flowing smoothly and prevent clogs.
- Install a hair catcher: A drain cover or hair catcher is an excellent way to prevent hair from entering the drain in the first place. Catching hair before it reaches the drain can prevent future clogged shower drains.
- Limit chemical drain cleaners: Avoid using harsh chemical drain cleaners frequently, as they can damage pipes and lead to future clogs. Stick to organic drain cleaner solutions or professional-grade cleaners like Hercules Glug when needed.
Following these tips will keep your shower drain clear and your plumbing system running smoothly.