A blocked shower drain can be a real pain, turning what should be a relaxing shower into a bit of a mess. When water isn’t draining properly, it’s easy to feel frustrated. But don’t worry—there are a few simple ways to clear your drain and keep it from clogging up again. Here’s our guide to understanding the common causes of blockages, easy DIY fixes, and when it might be time to call us in to help.
Common Causes of Shower Drain Blockages
Shower drains get blocked for a few key reasons, mostly everyday stuff that sneaks down the drain over time. Here are some of the usual suspects:
- Hair: Hair—especially long hair—tends to get tangled in the drain. It combines with soap and other bits, creating a pretty stubborn clog.
- Soap Scum: Soap leaves a sticky residue that mixes with hair and debris, making it a main contributor to blockages.
- Foreign Objects: Small items like shampoo caps, hair ties, or even the odd toy can fall into the drain and cause a blockage.
- Mineral Build-Up: Hard water deposits can build up and narrow your pipes, making it harder for water to flow smoothly.
- Damaged Pipes: Cracks or damage in your pipes can trap debris, making them prone to clogs over time.
Signs Your Shower Drain Is Blocked
Spotting a blockage early can save you from a full-on drain disaster later. Here are some telltale signs:
- Slow Draining Water: If water is pooling around your feet during a shower, it’s a classic sign that a clog is forming.
- Unpleasant Smells: Bad odours coming from the drain usually mean something’s stuck down there—often hair or old soap scum.
- Gurgling Sounds: If you hear gurgling noises when water drains, it could mean there’s air trapped in the pipes due to a blockage.
DIY Methods to Unblock Your Shower Drain
If you’re dealing with a blocked drain, here are some simple DIY methods to try before calling a plumber.
1. Inspect the Drain
Start by checking if you can see what’s causing the blockage. Remove the drain cover and, with a flashlight, look for any visible hair or debris. If you spot something, try removing it by hand or with tweezers.
2. Use a Plunger
A plunger can be a quick fix for a lot of shower blockages. Here’s how to use it effectively:
- Cover the Drain: Make sure the plunger completely covers the drain.
- Add Water: Fill the shower basin with enough water to cover the plunger’s rim.
- Plunge: Pump up and down for a minute or two to dislodge the clog.
- Flush with Hot Water: After plunging, pour hot water down the drain to wash away any leftover debris.
3. Try a Drain Snake
For blockages deeper in the pipe, a drain snake (or auger) can reach further than your hand.
- Insert the Snake: Carefully feed the snake into the drain until you hit resistance.
- Twist and Pull: Turn the handle to latch onto the clog, then pull it out. Repeat as needed.
- Rinse with Water: After removing the blockage, flush the drain with hot water to unclog the pipe and clear any remaining debris.
4. Natural Cleaning Solutions
For minor shower clogs, you can use common household ingredients like baking soda and vinegar.
- Pour Boiling Water: Start by pouring boiling water down the drain to loosen any buildup.
- Baking Soda and Vinegar: Add one cup of baking soda, then one cup of vinegar. Let it sit and fizz for about 15 minutes.
- Final Flush: Pour more boiling water to clear away any remaining debris.
5. Household Tools
If the clog is stubborn, these common household items can help:
- Wire Hanger: Straighten a wire hanger to make a small hook. Carefully use it to pull out hair or gunk from theh shower drain.
- Wet/Dry Vacuum: If you have one, a wet/dry vacuum can be useful to suck out blockages from the drain.
Preventing Future Blockages
Once you’ve cleared the shower drain blockage, a few simple habits can help keep it clear and flowing smoothly:
- Install a Drain Cover: A drain cover can catch hair and other debris, preventing it from going down the drain in the first place.
- Watch What Goes Down the Drain: Try to avoid rinsing large particles, chunks of soap, or anything else that might cause a blockage.
- Regular Maintenance: Every few weeks, clean your drain with a mix of vinegar and baking soda to prevent buildup.
- Limit Oil-Based Products: Oils from products can solidify in the pipes and trap debris. Opt for oil-free products or rinse thoroughly after using them.
- Teach Family Members: Make sure everyone knows what should (and shouldn’t) go down the drain to keep it clear.
When to Call a Plumber
While plenty of shower drain clogs can be fixed with a bit of DIY, sometimes you need a professional touch. Here’s when it’s best to bring in a plumber:
- Persistent Blockages: If you’ve tried several methods and nothing’s working, there could be a bigger issue.
- Frequent Backups: If your shower drain keeps getting blocked, it might be time to have a plumber assess the system.
- Visible Pipe Damage: If you notice any cracks or leaks around your pipes, call a plumber before the problem gets worse.
- Ongoing Odours: If bad smells keep coming back, even after cleaning, it could mean there’s a deeper issue that needs professional attention.
Benefits of Professional Drain Cleaning
Calling in a licensed plumber can save you time and ensure your shower drain is fixed properly. Here’s why it can be worth it:
- Expert Knowledge: Plumbers have the experience to tackle tough plumbing problems and get to the root of the issue.
- Specialised Tools: With high-pressure water jets and other advanced equipment, professionals can clear your drain more thoroughly.
- Long-Term Solutions: A plumber can give you tips to prevent future blockages and keep your drain flowing smoothly for the long haul.
Keep Your Shower Drain Flowing Smoothly
A blocked shower drain can be a hassle, but with the right approach, you can often clear it yourself and prevent it from happening again. For those times when a clog just won’t budge, Swish Plumbing is here to help. Whether it’s a minor clog or something more serious, give us a call on 0402 547 293 and we’ll make sure your plumbing stays in top shape so you can enjoy a worry-free shower experience.
