There is nothing worse than stepping into a relaxing shower only to find yourself standing in a pool of dirty, soapy water. Slow drains are not just annoying; they are unsanitary and can lead to bad odors in your bathroom. If you are tired of the standing water, learning how to fix a clogged shower drain is an essential skill for any homeowner.
While some blockages are stubborn, many can be resolved with simple tools you already have at home. However, if the water refuses to go down despite your best efforts, it may be time to call in a professional for Drain Cleaning. Before you panic, try these five effective methods to clear that blockage.
1. The Boiling Water Technique
Sometimes, the solution is as simple as heat. Over time, soap scum and conditioner can harden inside your pipes, narrowing the passage for water. Boiling water can melt these soft obstructions away.
Boil a kettle of water and pour it slowly down the drain in two or three stages. Let the hot water sit for a few seconds between pours.
Note: Do not use this method if you have PVC pipes, as boiling water can damage the plastic joints.
2. Baking Soda and Vinegar
If boiling water doesn’t work, try a natural chemical reaction. This method is safe for your pipes and great for the environment. It fizzes away grime and mild obstructions.
- Pour half a cup of baking soda down the drain.
- Follow it immediately with half a cup of white vinegar.
- Cover the drain with a wet cloth or plug to keep the reaction inside the pipe.
- Let it sit for 20 minutes, then flush with hot water.
This is a classic household trick for anyone wondering how to fix a clogged shower drain without using harsh chemicals.
3. The Plunger Method
For physical blockages, a plunger is your best friend. However, make sure you are using a cup plunger (the one with a flat bottom), not a toilet flange plunger.
To get the best results, apply petroleum jelly to the rim of the plunger to create a tight seal. Run enough water in the shower to cover the cup of the plunger. Place it over the drain and pump vigorously up and down. The suction can dislodge the clog and force it through the pipe.
4. The Wire Hanger Snake
If you suspect hair is the culprit, you need to fish it out. If you don’t own a plumber’s snake, a wire coat hanger is a great substitute.
Straighten out the hanger but leave a small hook at one end. Remove your drain cover (you may need a screwdriver). Feed the wire into the drain and gently fish around. When you feel resistance, pull the wire back up. You will likely pull up a clump of hair and gunk. Remember to pull out, not push in.
5. When to Call a Professional
If you have tried the methods above and the water still won’t drain, the blockage is likely deep in the plumbing system. It could be located in the P-trap or even further down the main line.
Forcing a snake too deep or using caustic chemical cleaners can actually damage your pipes, leading to expensive Plumbing Repair later. If multiple drains in your home are slow—like the toilet and sink alongside the shower—this indicates a main sewer line blockage. In this case, you need professional help immediately.
Prevent Future Clogs
Once your drain is flowing freely, you want to keep it that way. The number one cause of shower blockages is hair. We recommend installing a simple hair catcher or drain screen.
Cleaning this screen after every shower takes five seconds and saves you from future plumbing headaches. Additionally, pouring a little baking soda down the drain once a month can keep odors at bay and maintain good flow.
Adopting these simple habits not only protects your plumbing but also aligns with the EPA’s recommendations for safe household water practices.
Rescue Hero Plumbing: Your Local Experts
Sometimes, a clog is just too stubborn for DIY methods. If you are still struggling to figure out how to fix a clogged shower drain, let the experts handle it. At Rescue Hero Plumbing, we have been serving Bakersfield, Shafter, and Tehachapi for over 30 years.
We are a family-owned business committed to honest work and fast results. We use advanced tools like hydro-jetting and video camera inspections to locate and obliterate clogs without damaging your home. Whether it is a routine cleaning or you need an Emergency Plumber, we are available 24/7 to rescue your day.
Don’t let a clogged drain ruin your morning.
Contact Rescue Hero Plumbing Today. Call us at (661) 587-8260 for same-day service!
FAQ’s
Why does my shower drain keep clogging?
The most common culprits are hair, soap scum, and dead skin cells. These materials bind together to form a sticky, solid mass that traps water. In areas with hard water, mineral buildup can also narrow the pipes, making clogs more frequent.
Can I use chemical drain cleaners?
We generally advise against using harsh chemical cleaners from the grocery store. They generate heat that can warp PVC pipes and corrode older metal pipes. Furthermore, they are often toxic and bad for the environment. Mechanical cleaning (snaking) is safer.
How do I know if the clog is in the main sewer line?
If your shower is draining slowly, check your other fixtures. If your toilet gurgles when the shower runs, or if water backs up into the tub when you flush the toilet, you likely have a main sewer line blockage. This requires professional Sewer Line Cleaning.
How often should I clean my shower drain?
It is best to perform maintenance cleaning once a month using the baking soda and vinegar method. Additionally, you should physically remove hair from the drain cover or hair catcher after every shower to prevent buildup.
Will a plumber’s snake damage my pipes?
If used incorrectly, yes. Pushing a snake too hard or using the wrong size tip can scratch porcelain or crack old pipes. If you encounter a “hard” stop that doesn’t feel like sludge, stop immediately and call a professional to avoid causing a leak.