Have you stepped out of the shower only to find the water lingering around your feet instead of disappearing down the drain? If your shower drain is slow to let water flow or is outright clogged, it’s time to take action before it becomes a major issue.
When faced with a clogged shower drain, you have a couple of options. You can either attempt to clear it yourself or call in a professional plumber for assistance, especially if DIY solutions aren’t your cup of tea (we understand, it’s not the most glamorous task). If you’re up for trying some quick fixes to save a few bucks, here are some DIY solutions to unclog your shower drain:
Tip #1: Boiling Point Start with the simplest trick in the book: Boil water in a kettle or saucepan. Carefully pour the hot water down the drain in small increments, allowing it to work through the clog. The heat helps break down and dissolve the blockage. However, only use this method if you have metal pipes, as boiling water can loosen joints in PVC pipes.
Tip #2: Clean and Clear Channel your inner science fair enthusiast with a baking soda and vinegar solution. Mix equal parts of baking soda and vinegar, and immediately pour it down the drain. The fizzing chemical reaction helps break up hair and grime. Let it sit for at least an hour before flushing it out with hot water from the tap.
Tip #3: Digging Out For stubborn clogs, it’s time to get hands-on. Put on rubber gloves and remove the shower drain cover using a screwdriver. Straighten a wire coat hanger, leaving a small hook at one end. Carefully feed the wire down the drain to pull out any hair or debris causing the blockage. Once you’ve removed as much as possible, pour boiling water down the drain and replace the cover.
By trying these DIY fixes, you might be able to unclog your shower drain and restore proper drainage. However, if the problem persists or seems too daunting, don’t hesitate to seek professional help to avoid further damage or frustration.