How To Clean Hair Out Of Shower Drain

Hair is one of the most common reasons for clogged shower drains. If you have long hair or live with someone who does, you know how frustrating it can be to deal with a clogged drain. In this article, we will discuss some simple and effective ways to clean hair out of your shower drain.

Why is Hair a Problem for Shower Drains?

Hair easily gets tangled around other debris like soap and shampoo, forming a clump that blocks water from flowing out of the drain. Over time, this buildup can cause the water to back up and flood your bathroom. That’s why it’s important to clean hair out of your shower drain regularly.

Tools You Will Need

Before we get into the cleaning process, here are some tools you’ll need:

  • Rubber gloves
  • A drain snake
  • A plunger
  • Baking soda and vinegar
  • A bucket or plastic bag

Method 1: Remove Hair Manually

The easiest way to clean hair out of your shower drain is to do it manually. Here’s how:

  1. Put on rubber gloves to protect your hands.
  2. Remove the drain cover if possible.
  3. Reach into the drain with your fingers or a pair of tweezers and pull out any visible hair.
  4. Dispose of the hair in a plastic bag or bucket.
  5. Repeat the process until you can no longer see any hair.
  6. Replace the drain cover.

FAQ: Can I Use a Wire Hanger Instead of Tweezers?

Yes, you can use a wire hanger to remove hair from your shower drain. Straighten the hanger and bend one end into a hook shape. Use the hook to fish out any visible hair.

Method 2: Use a Drain Snake

If you can’t remove the hair manually, you can use a drain snake. Here’s how:

  1. Insert the drain snake into the drain until you feel resistance.
  2. Turn the handle clockwise to dislodge the hair and other debris.
  3. Pull out the drain snake and dispose of any hair or debris that comes out with it.
  4. Repeat the process until the drain is clear.

FAQ: What if I Don’t Have a Drain Snake?

You can purchase a drain snake at your local hardware or home improvement store. If you don’t want to buy one, you can try using a wire coat hanger or a plunger instead.

Method 3: Use Baking Soda and Vinegar

Baking soda and vinegar are a natural and effective way to clean hair out of your shower drain. Here’s how:

  1. Pour a pot of boiling water down the drain to loosen any hair and debris.
  2. Add 1/2 cup of baking soda to the drain.
  3. Pour 1 cup of vinegar down the drain and immediately cover it with a drain plug or a rag.
  4. Wait for 10-15 minutes.
  5. Pour another pot of boiling water down the drain to flush out any remaining hair and debris.

FAQ: Can I Use Chemical Drain Cleaners?

While chemical drain cleaners can be effective, they can also damage your pipes and harm the environment. It’s best to avoid them and use natural methods like baking soda and vinegar instead.

Conclusion

Cleaning hair out of your shower drain is not a fun task, but it’s necessary to prevent clogs and backups. Remember to wear gloves, use the right tools, and try natural methods like baking soda and vinegar before resorting to chemical drain cleaners. With these tips, you should be able to keep your shower drain clean and clear.