Remove Hair From Drain: Steps, Tools, Etc.

Hair clogs are a common plumbing issue, especially in bathrooms where long hair and soap scum can accumulate over time. Leaving a hair clog untreated can lead to slow draining, foul odours, and even complete blockages that prevent water from draining at all. Addressing hair clogs is important to maintain healthy, functioning drains.

What Happens if You Don't Clear the Hair from the Drain?

When hair builds up in a drain, it can create a tangled, matted clog that traps other debris like soap, toothpaste, and skin cells. This clog restricts water flow, causing it to back up and pool in the sink, shower, or tub. Over time, the clog can grow larger, leading to complete blockages that require professional intervention to fix. Leaving a hair clog untreated can also lead to unpleasant odours as the organic matter decomposes. On top of these, not clearing the hair can lead to increased plumbing service costs if left untreated.

What You Need to Remove Hair From a Drain

To effectively remove hair from a drain, you'll need the following tools and products:

Drain Snake or Auger

A drain snake, also called a plumber's snake or auger, is a long, flexible metal cable with a corkscrew-like end that you can feed into the drain to break up and extract hair clogs. 

Baking Soda and Vinegar

The fizzing reaction between baking soda and vinegar can help dissolve and flush out hair clogs. 

Plunger

Using a plunger can create suction to dislodge and push through hair clogs. 

Needle-nose Pliers

Pliers can be used to manually pull out visible hair from the drain opening. 

Gloves and Eye Protection

Wear gloves and safety glasses when dealing with drain clogs to avoid contact with dirty water and debris. 

Boiling Water

Pouring boiling water down the drain can help flush out loosened hair and other gunk. 

Steps to Remove Hair From a Drain

To remove hair from a drain, follow these steps:

1. Remove the drain cover or stopper to access the opening.

2. Use needle-nose pliers to manually pull out any visible hair from the drain.

3. If using a drain snake or auger, carefully insert the end into the drain and rotate it to break up the clog. Slowly pull the snake back out, bringing the hair with it.

4. For a zip-it tool, insert it into the drain and wiggle it around to catch the hair, then pull it out.

5. Pour 1 cup of baking soda and 1 cup of vinegar down the drain. Let the mixture fizz for 15 minutes before flushing with boiling water.

6. If the clog persists, use the plunger to create suction and dislodge the hair.

7. Repeat the baking soda, vinegar, and boiling water steps as needed until the drain is clear.

8. Replace the drain cover or stopper when finished.

Considerations When Removing Hair From a Drain

When removing hair from a drain, it's important to consider the following:

1. Wear gloves and eye protection to avoid contact with dirty water and debris.

2. Avoid using chemical drain cleaners, as they can damage pipes over time.

3. If the clog is deep in the pipes and you can't reach it with a snake or zip-it tool, it may be time to call a professional plumber.

4. Regular maintenance, like removing the drain cover and cleaning out visible hair, can help prevent future clogs.

Frequently Asked Questions About Removing Hair From Drains

What will dissolve hair in a drain?

Baking soda and vinegar are effective at dissolving and flushing out hair clogs. The fizzing reaction helps break down the hair and other organic matter.

Can vinegar dissolve hair?

Yes, the acetic acid in vinegar can help dissolve and break down hair that has accumulated in different drain types. Using vinegar in combination with baking soda is an effective home remedy for clearing hair clogs.

How do you unclog a hair-clogged shower drain without a snake?

You can try using a zip-it tool or plunger to dislodge the hair clog. Pouring baking soda and vinegar down the drain, followed by boiling water, can also help dissolve and flush out the clog.

What do plumbers use to unblock drains?

Plumbers often use a drain snake or auger to break up and extract hair and other debris from clogged drains. They may also use a high-pressure water jetter to blast through tough clogs.

What is the cheapest way to unclog a drain?

One of the most affordable DIY methods is using baking soda and vinegar. This simple home remedy can be very effective at dissolving hair and other organic matter causing the clog.

How Do I Remove Hair From Drain When Nothing Works?

Don't Let Hair Clogs Ruin Your Plumbing - Call the Experts at All Needs Plumbing!If you've tried everything and your drain is still clogged, it's time to call in the professionals. At All Needs Plumbing, we offer a $0 callout fee, 24/7 same-day service, a 15% seniors discount, and $150 off hot water systems. Our experienced plumbers have the tools and expertise to quickly and effectively clear even the toughest hair clogs. Don't let a blocked drain disrupt your day - contact us today!