How To Clean Out Shower Drain

When it comes to bathroom maintenance, one of the most common problems homeowners face is a clogged shower drain. This can cause water to accumulate in the shower, leading to a potential slip and fall hazard. Not only that, but standing water can also be a breeding ground for bacteria and mold. In this article, we will discuss how to clean out shower drain and prevent clogs from occurring in the first place.

What Causes Shower Drains to Clog?

Before we dive into how to clean out shower drain, it’s important to understand what causes clogs in the first place. Hair, soap scum, and other debris can accumulate in the drain over time, eventually leading to a blockage. Hard water can also cause mineral buildup, which can make it harder for water to flow freely through the drain.

Tools You’ll Need

To clean out shower drain, you’ll need a few tools. These include:

  • Plunger
  • Wire hanger
  • Baking soda
  • Vinegar
  • Hot water

How to Clean Out Shower Drain

Now that you have your tools ready, follow these steps to clean out shower drain:

Step 1:

Remove any visible debris from the drain, such as hair or soap scum. You can use your fingers or a wire hanger to do this.

Step 2:

Pour a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by a cup of vinegar. The mixture will fizz, which helps break up any remaining debris in the drain.

Step 3:

Let the mixture sit for at least 30 minutes. During this time, the fizzing action will continue to break up the debris.

Step 4:

Boil a pot of hot water on the stove. Carefully pour the hot water down the drain, which will help flush out any remaining debris.

Step 5:

Test the drain by running water for a few minutes. If the water flows freely, your shower drain is clean!

How to Prevent Clogs

Cleaning out shower drain is important, but it’s even better to prevent clogs from occurring in the first place. Here are some tips to prevent clogs:

  • Use a drain cover to catch hair and other debris before it goes down the drain.
  • Run hot water down the drain after every shower to help flush out any debris.
  • Use a mixture of baking soda, vinegar, and hot water to clean out shower drain once a month as preventive maintenance.

FAQs

Q: How often should I clean out shower drain?

A: It’s a good idea to clean out shower drain once a month as preventive maintenance.

Q: Can I use chemical drain cleaners?

A: While chemical drain cleaners can be effective, they can also damage your pipes over time. It’s best to use natural methods like baking soda and vinegar.

Q: What if I still have a clog after cleaning out shower drain?

A: If you’ve tried the natural cleaning method and still have a clog, it’s best to call a professional plumber to avoid causing any damage to your pipes.

Conclusion

Knowing how to clean out shower drain is an essential part of bathroom maintenance. By following the steps outlined in this article and preventing clogs from occurring in the first place, you can ensure that your shower drain stays clean and free-flowing.