How to Unclog Shower Drain with 5 Easy Steps

Shower drains can become clogged due to hair, soap scum, and other debris. Clogged drains can cause water to back up into your shower and can be a huge nuisance. Luckily, there are several easy methods you can use to unclog your shower drain.

Unclogging a shower drain doesn’t have to be difficult or expensive. With these simple steps, you should be able to clear any clogs that may be preventing your shower from draining properly. Give these methods a try before calling in a professional plumber!

There are a few steps you can try to unclog a shower drain:

  1. First, try using a plunger to loosen the clog. Place the plunger over the drain and push it down firmly several times. This can help to loosen the clog and allow it to pass through the drain.
  2. If the plunger doesn’t work, you can try using a drain snake. A drain snake is a long, flexible rod that can be inserted into the drain to loosen and remove the clog.
  3. If the clog is still not cleared, you can try using a chemical drain cleaner. These products contain harsh chemicals that can help to break down and dissolve the clog. However, be sure to use caution when using chemical drain cleaners, as they can be harmful to the skin and can damage pipes if not used properly.
  4. If none of these methods work, you may need to remove the drain cover and try to clear the clog manually. Be sure to use caution when attempting to remove the drain cover, as it may be heavy and sharp edges may be present.
  5. If you are unable to clear the clog yourself, it may be necessary to call a plumber for assistance. A plumber will have the tools and experience necessary to safely and effectively remove the clog from your shower drain.
There are a few steps you can try to unclog a shower drain

What causes a drain to clog?

There are several factors that can cause a drain to clog. Some common causes of drain clogs include:

  • Hair: Hair is a common culprit when it comes to shower and sink drains. As hair accumulates in the drain, it can form a clog that blocks water from flowing freely.
  • Soap scum: Soap scum can build up in the drain over time, creating a clog.
  • Debris: Debris such as food particles, dirt, and small objects can easily become stuck in the drain, causing a clog.
  • Foreign objects: Flushing large or non-biodegradable items down the drain, such as wipes, cotton balls, and feminine hygiene products, can cause a clog.
  • Tree roots: In some cases, tree roots can grow into and block the sewer line, causing a clog in the drain.
  • Pipe blockages: Pipes can become blocked by mineral build-up, corrosion, or other types of blockages.
  • Old or damaged pipes: Over time, pipes can become old and damaged, which can lead to clogs.

By taking steps to prevent these types of clogs and regularly cleaning and maintaining your drains, you can help to prevent future clogs from occurring.

What causes a drain to clog

Tips for Preventing Clogs

Here are a few tips to help prevent clogs in your shower drain:

  1. Use a drain cover: A drain cover can help to catch hair and other debris before it goes down the drain, which can help to prevent clogs.
  2. Avoid flushing large or non-biodegradable items down the drain: This includes items like wipes, cotton balls, and feminine hygiene products. These items can easily get stuck in the drain and cause a clog.
  3. Clean the drain regularly: Regularly cleaning the drain can help to prevent clogs by removing any build-up of hair and other debris.
  4. Use a natural drain cleaner: Instead of using chemical drain cleaners, try using a natural drain cleaner like vinegar and baking soda. This can help to prevent damage to your pipes and is safer for the environment.
  5. Consider using a hair catcher: A hair catcher is a small device that fits over the drain and catches hair before it goes down the drain. This can help to significantly reduce the amount of hair that goes down the drain, which can help to prevent clogs.
  6. Fix leaks: Leaky pipes can contribute to clogs by allowing excess water to enter the drain. Be sure to fix any leaks as soon as possible to help prevent clogs.
Tips for Preventing Clogs

Best Tools for Unclogged Shower Drain

There are several tools that can be used to unclog a shower drain. Some common tools include:

  • Plunger: A plunger can be used to loosen and remove a clog by creating suction and forcing the clog to move through the drain.
  • Drain snake: A drain snake is a long, flexible rod that can be inserted into the drain to loosen and remove the clog.
  • Chemical drain cleaner: Chemical drain cleaners contain harsh chemicals that can help to break down and dissolve the clog. However, these products can be harmful to the skin and can damage pipes if not used properly, so caution should be used when using them.
  • Manual removal: In some cases, it may be necessary to remove the drain cover and manually remove the clog. This should be done with caution, as the drain cover may be heavy and sharp edges may be present.
  • Water pressure: High water pressure can sometimes be used to clear a clog by forcing the clog through the drain. This can be done using a pressure washer or a specialized tool designed for clearing clogs with water pressure.

It’s important to use caution when attempting to unclog a drain, as some methods can be dangerous or cause damage to the pipes. If you are unable to clear the clog yourself, it may be necessary to call a plumber for assistance.

Best Tools for Unclogged Shower Drain

How do you use an auger to clear clogged shower drains?

An auger, also known as a drain snake, is a tool that is used to clear clogged drains. To use an auger to clear a clogged shower drain, follow these steps:

  1. Remove the drain cover: Use a screwdriver or other tool to remove the drain cover. Some drain covers may have screws that need to be removed, while others may be held in place with clips or other types of fasteners.
  2. Insert the auger into the drain: Carefully insert the auger into the drain, making sure to avoid any sharp edges or other hazards.
  3. Turn the auger handle: As you insert the auger into the drain, use the handle to turn the auger clockwise. This will help to loosen and remove any debris that may be blocking the drain.
  4. Continue turning the auger until the clog is cleared: Keep turning the auger until the clog is cleared and water can flow freely through the drain.
  5. Remove the auger from the drain: Once the clog is cleared, carefully remove the auger from the drain.
  6. Replace the drain cover: Once the auger has been removed, replace the drain cover and test the drain to make sure it is flowing freely.

It’s important to use caution when using an auger, as it can be sharp and may cause injury if not handled properly. If you are unable to clear the clog with an auger, it may be necessary to call a plumber for assistance.

How do you use an auger to clear a clogged shower drain

Frequently Ask Questions (FAQs):

When should you call a plumber with a clogged shower drain?

If the clog is deep and you are unable to unclog it using natural methods, such as a plunger or wire hanger, then it’s best to call a plumber.

How to Fix a Clogged Shower Drain Naturally?

You can fix a clogged shower drain naturally by trying to plunge the drain, using a wire hanger to dislodge any debris, or by using a combination of baking soda and vinegar.

How do you unblock a shower drain with standing water?

To unblock a shower drain with standing water, you should start by using a plunger to try and break up the clog. If that doesn’t work, you can try using a wire hanger to dislodge any debris. If that still doesn’t work, you can use baking soda and vinegar to create a chemical reaction that will help to break up the clog.

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