Remove Hair From Shower Drain: Say Goodbye to Clogs

A blocked shower drain is a common household issue, leading to standing water and unpleasant odours. Hair is often the primary culprit behind these clogs, but with the proper techniques, you can effectively clear your drain and keep it flowing smoothly. Below are detailed methods to tackle hair clogs and preventive tips to remove hair from shower drain.

1. Boiling Water

How It Works

A simple but effective way to get rid of soap scum and grease that can trap hair in the drain is to boil water. The heat from the water can loosen the buildup, making it easier for the water to flow through.

Steps

Boil Water

Start by boiling a kettle or a large pot of water. Ensure it reaches a rolling boil, as this temperature is most effective for breaking down clogs.

Pour Carefully

Once boiled, carefully pour the water directly down the drain in a steady stream. Avoid pouring too quickly, as this can splash and create a mess.

Wait and Check

Allow the hot water to work its magic. Afterward, check if the water drains properly. If necessary, repeat the process several times.

2. Baking Soda and Vinegar

How It Works

This classic combination is natural and effective at breaking down hair and other organic materials. Baking soda and vinegar react chemically to make carbon dioxide, which can help clear clogs.

Steps

Add Baking Soda

Place one cup of baking soda down the drain. Baking soda neutralises smells and helps absorb moisture.

Add Vinegar

Follow with one cup of white vinegar. The fizzing action will begin immediately, breaking down the clog.

Cover the Drain

You can keep the reaction inside by plugging or covering the drain. Covering will help direct the fizzing action downward, maximising its effectiveness.

Wait

Set the mix aside for at least 30 minutes. For more challenging clogs, consider waiting a few hours or even overnight.

Flush with Boiling Water

After waiting, flush the drain with boiling water to clear out any remaining debris and residue.

3. Manual Removal

How It Works

Manual hair removal is one of the most direct and effective ways to clear a clog. This method allows you to address the problem without relying on chemicals or tools.

Steps

Remove the Drain Cover

Use a screwdriver or simple hand tool to remove the drain cover carefully. Watch out not to damage the cover or the area around it.

Inspect the Drain

Look down the drain with a flashlight to find the hair clog. This method will help you gauge how much hair needs to be removed.

Wear Gloves

Put on rubber gloves to protect your hands from bacteria and grime.

Pull Out the Hair

Use your fingers or a pair of tweezers to grasp and pull out the hair clump. Be thorough and remove as much as possible to ensure the drain is clear.

Dispose Properly

Place the removed hair in a trash bag instead of flushing it down the toilet, which can lead to further clogs.

4. Drain Snake

How It Works

A drain snake, also called an auger, is a bendy tool that can get into pipes and clear out clogs that you would not be able to reach otherwise. This tool is handy for stubborn clogs that are not easily removed by other methods.

Steps

Insert the Snake

Carefully insert the drain snake's end into the drain hole. Do this slowly to avoid damaging the pipes.

Rotate the Handle

Rotate the handle as you push the snake deeper into the pipe. This step will help the snake navigate bends in the pipe and reach the clog.

Feel for Resistance

When you encounter resistance, it indicates that you’ve reached the clog. Continue to turn the snake to latch onto the hair and debris.

Pull Out the Snake

Slowly pull the snake out, bringing the hair and any other debris with it. Be prepared for some mess, and have a trash bag ready for disposal.

5. Plunger

How It Works

A plunger creates suction and pressure that can dislodge stubborn clogs. This method is effective for both hair and other types of debris.

Steps

Check Water Level

Ensure enough water is in the shower to cover the plunger's cup. The water will create an effective seal.

Position the Plunger

Firmly press down on the plunger to make a seal over the drain.

Pump the Plunger

Pump the plunger up and down vigorously for 15-20 seconds. The pressure created should help remove hair from shower drain.

Remove and Check

After pumping, remove the plunger and check if the water drains. If it’s still clogged, repeat the process a few more times.

6. Chemical Drain Cleaners (Use with Caution)

How It Works

Chemical drain cleaners can dissolve hair and other organic materials but should be used sparingly due to their harshness and potential damage to pipes.

Steps

Read Instructions

Carefully read the manufacturer’s instructions on the bottle. Different products may have varying usage guidelines.

Pour into Drain

Put the right amount of chemical cleaner down the drain. Be cautious not to use too much, as this can damage the pipe.

Wait

Leave the cleaner on for the time given, usually between 15 and 30 minutes. Letting the mix sit longer will help break up the clog. The step will make it easier for you to remove hair from shower drain.

Flush with Water

After waiting, flush the drain with plenty of water to wash away the dissolved debris. Frequent chemical cleaners can damage pipes over time, so consider this a last resort.

7. Preventive Measures

To keep your shower drain free from hair clogs in the future, consider implementing the following preventive measures:

Use a Drain Cover

A simple mesh or silicone drain cover can catch hair before it enters the drain. These covers are inexpensive and easy to clean. Make it a habit to check and clean the cover regularly to remove hair from shower drain and prevent hair buildup.

Regular Maintenance

Periodically flush your drain with boiling water or a baking soda and vinegar solution. Regular maintenance like this can help keep your pipes clear and lower the chance of them getting clogged.

Educate Family Members

Encourage everyone in the household to brush their hair before showering and to avoid rinsing hair products down the drain. Simple changes in habits can significantly reduce the amount of hair that enters the drain.

What if I need to avail myself of services to remove hair from shower drain?

If you've tried these methods and still have to remove hair from shower drain, it's time to seek professional help. All Needs Plumbing has same-day service 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and no call-out fee exists. We make sure that your plumbing needs are met quickly. Additionally, we offer a 15% discount for seniors and $150 off hot water systems. Our skilled team is committed to fixing your plumbing problems quickly and correctly. Don’t hesitate to ask for assistance; we're here to help!