How to Unblock a Shower Drain Without Chemicals

Posted by Blocked Drains Plumbing Sydney on 5 Aug 2024

If you’ve ever taken a shower only to realize that the water hasn’t been draining it, you’re aware of how annoying it is. This not only slows down your morning routine, it could also make it difficult to clean after you’re finished. Although chemical drain cleaners can be sometimes effective, they may also damage your pipes and cause harm to the environment. The positive side lies in the plenty of natural methods to clear a shower drain without using harsh chemicals.

Key Takeaways

  • Chemical drain cleaners may harm pipes and the surrounding environment.
  • There are natural ways to clear a shower drain, such as using vinegar and baking soda and a wire hanger or a wet/dry vacuum.
  • To make use of the method of baking soda and vinegar: gather supplies, remove the drain cover and any garbage, pour baking soda in, then vinegar. Wait 30 minutes before flushing with boiling water.
  • For wire hanger methods Straighten the wire hanger, leaving one end in its original shape Make a hook at the end, then insert it in the drain to fish hair and debris out.
  • If you want to use the dry/wet vacuum method select the "wet" mode then cover the drains of overflow using cloth or tape. attach hose creating an air-tight seal then turn off the vacuum after 3 minutes.
  • Be prepared for blockages in the future by using hair strainers in your shower. You can also run hot water following each use, and not pouring grease down your drains.

Method 1 Method 1: Making a cake with baking Soda and Vinegar

Step 1. Gather Your Materials

To begin, gather the following items:

  • Baking soda
  • White vinegar
  • Boiling water
  • Rubber gloves (optional)
  • A cloth or rag

Step 2: Clean the Drain

Take off the shower drain cover if possible and use tiny brushes or a toothbrush to remove any hair or other debris the edges of the drain. Be sure to wear rubber gloves if necessary.

Step 3: Pour in Baking Soda along with Vinegar

Pour one cup of baking soda down the drain followed by one cups of vinegar. Then cover with a rag or cloth. Cover the drain immediately with a clean cloth or a towel to ensure that the reaction doesn’t explode out of control!

Step 4: Wait

You should wait for around 30 minutes while the mixture works its magic. It should sound like there is a fizz and bubbling. That’s a sign that it’s working!

Step 5: Drain using Boiling Water

Take the cover off with care and flush with boiling water. This should help clear any remaining debris and ensure that your water is flowing freely.

Method 2: Wire Hanger

Sometimes all you require is a reliable wire hanger

Step 1 1. Straighten It Out

Straighten out a wire hanger as much as possible, leaving one end of the hanger in its original shape.

Step 2: Create an Hook

Create a small hook on the end of the wire that you just straightened.

Step 3: Go fishing for Hair and Debris

Insert the hook into the drain and fish around for hair and debris. Get rid of anything that comes up.

Method 3: Wet/Dry Vacuum

If you have access to an upright vacuum that is dry and wet, this method might be the best option for you.

Step 1: Set the Vacuum

Set the vacuum into "liquids" or "wet" mode.

2. Cover Overflow Drain

Cover any overflow drains with duct tape or a wet cloth to ensure maximum suction power.

Step 3: Connect Hose to drain

Connect the hose to your drain, making an airtight seal.

Step 4: Turn on Vacuum

Then, turn on the vacuum and let it run for about three minutes. This will help clear any blockages from the shower drain.

Method Supplies Needed Steps
Baking Soda and Vinegar Baking soda, white vinegar, boiling water, rubber gloves (optional), cloth or rag 1. Gather supplies\n2. Prepare the drain\n3. Pour in baking soda and vinegar\n4. Wait for 30 minutes\n5. Flush with boiling water
Wire Hanger Wire hanger 1. Straighten it out\n2. Create a hook\n3. Fish for hair and debris
Wet/Dry Vacuum Wet/dry vacuum, duct tape or wet cloth 1. Set the vacuum to "liquids" or "wet" mode\n2. Cover overflow drain \n3. Attach hose to drain \n4. Turn on vacuum

Common Questions & Answers

What can I tell if my shower drains are blocked?

If your shower takes longer than usual time to empty or if water is accumulating on your feet during your shower, it’s a sign that your drain could be either completely or partially clogged. Also, a smell of rottenness coming from the shower area may also be a sign of a blocked drain.

What are the best natural methods to clear a shower drain?

You could try pouring boiling water down the drain, then followed by vinegar, baking soda, and. You could also make a mix of salt and baking soda, followed by boiling water. Swirling the drain with a plunger can also aid.

Can I make use of chemical drain cleaners to remove the blockage in my shower?

It’s not advised to use chemical drain cleaners since they are laden with harsh chemicals that can damage the pipes in the long run. These chemicals can also harm the environment and pose health risk for those who use them incorrectly.

When should I get in touch with a professional plumber for my blocked shower drain?

If DIY methods don’t work to clear your shower drain, then it’s advisable to call a professional plumber like Blocked Drains Plumbing Sydney in Sydney to get help. Other indicators that you may require assistance from a professional include the water coming out of other drains or toilets, strange noises of pipes gurgling, or foul odors coming from the drains even after cleaning them.

How much does it cost to get a clogged shower drain cleared by plumbing experts?

The cost for fixing blocked shower drains can be different based on the severity of the issue and where you live. In the average, it will cost between $100-$300 for a plumber to clear the drain of a shower. However, more severe situations that require pipe repairs or replacement can cost anywhere from $500 to $1000.

Conclusion

Unblocking a shower drain could be stressful, but there are plenty of alternatives to try before making the switch to harsh chemicals. Whatever you decide to do, whether baking soda and vinegar, a wire hanger or a dry/wet vacuum, make sure you stop future blockages using a hair strainer in your shower as well as running hot water in the shower after each use, and avoiding pouring grease down your drains. If none of these options perform, it could be an appropriate time to seek professional help. If you’re experiencing a lot of trouble or having trouble with plumbing issues at Sydney , contact Blocked Drains Plumbing Sydney immediately!

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