Shower Drain Hacks You Need For Hair Clogs

Have you ever wondered how often clogged shower drains disrupt our daily routines? Hair clogs are a common culprit, wreaking havoc on plumbing systems and causing unexpected inconveniences.

The frustration of standing in a slowly draining shower is just the beginning; if left unchecked, these clogs can lead to costly repairs and even water damage. Regular maintenance is essential to prevent these issues from escalating.

Addressing clogs early and keeping drains clear can save time and money, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free shower experience.

Why Hair Clogs Occur

Hair clogs happen when strands accumulate in drains, tangling with soap scum, grease, and other debris to form blockages. Hair, being fibrous and sticky when wet, can easily adhere to the walls of pipes. Over time, this accumulation grows, restricting water flow and leading to a clog.

Different hair types can impact the severity of clogs. For example, longer hair wraps around drain components more readily, while thicker hair can create denser clogs. Curly or coarser hair types may also contribute to faster clogging due to their texture and volume.

Signs of a developing clog include slow-draining water, gurgling sounds, and unpleasant odours emanating from the drain. When these symptoms appear, it’s crucial to address them promptly to prevent complete blockages. Regular maintenance and awareness of these signs can help mitigate the inconvenience and potential damage caused by hair clogs.

Daily Habits to Keep Your Drains Clear

Maintaining clear drains is essential for a smoothly functioning bathroom. Here are some practical daily habits to help reduce hair accumulation:

Use a Hair Catcher or Drain Cover

Invest in a quality hair catcher or drain cover. These devices trap hair before it enters the drain, minimising clogs. Choose a model that fits securely over your drain. They are easy to install and can be cleaned regularly, preventing build-up and ensuring adequate water flow.

Brush Hair Before Showering

Brush your hair before stepping into the shower. This simple step removes loose strands, significantly reducing the hair in the drain. Keep a brush in the bathroom as a reminder and incorporate it into your routine to minimise hair-related blockages.

Regular Cleaning and Maintenance

Clean the hair catcher or drain cover daily. Remove any trapped hair and debris to ensure it functions properly. This regular maintenance prevents build-up and keeps the drain clear. Periodically checking the drain cover for any signs of wear or damage can help you address issues before they become serious.

Rinse the Shower Walls and Tub

After showering, rinse down the shower walls and tub with water. This practice helps wash away loose hairs that might cling to surfaces, preventing them from eventually entering the drain.

Use a Drain Cleaner Monthly

Consider using a gentle, non-corrosive drain cleaner once a month to keep your pipes clear. This can help dissolve any small buildups before they become major clogs.

Weekly Maintenance Tips for a Clog-Free Shower Drain

Flush with Boiling Water

Pour a kettle of boiling water down the drain to help dissolve soap and grease build-up. This simple step prevents accumulation and keeps the drain flowing smoothly.

Baking Soda and Vinegar Cleanse

Sprinkle 1/2 cup of baking soda into the drain, followed by 1 cup of white vinegar. Let it fizz for 10-15 minutes, then flush with hot water to naturally break down residues and eliminate odours.

Remove Hair and Debris

Use a drain snake, a plunger or a bent wire hanger to remove hair and other debris from the drain. This prevents blockages and ensures efficient water flow.

Using a Drain Snake

1. Insert the snake: Carefully feed the end of the snake into the drain until you feel resistance.
2. Rotate the snake: Turn the handle clockwise to break through the clog or to catch debris.
3. Push and pull: Gently push and pull the snake to loosen the blockage.
4. Remove the snake: Pull the snake out of the drain, bringing any debris.
5. Dispose of debris: Clean the snake and dispose of any hair or debris caught on it.

Using a Bent Wire Hanger:

1. Straighten the hanger: Unwind a wire hanger, leaving a small hook at one end.
2. Insert into drain: Carefully push the hooked end into the drain.
3. Pull out hair: Twist and pull gently to snag hair clogs.
4. Dispose of debris: Remove and dispose of any hair caught.

Using a Plunger:

1. Seal overflow: Cover any overflow openings with a wet cloth.
2. Position plunger: Place the plunger over the drain, ensuring a good seal.
3. Plunge vigorously: Push and pull rapidly for about 20 seconds.
4. Check drainage: Remove the plunger and test the drain flow.

Inspect Drains Regularly

Take a few moments each week to inspect your drains for signs of slow drainage or unusual odours. Early detection of these issues can help you address potential blockages before they worsen.

Use a Natural Enzyme Cleaner

Once a week, apply an enzyme cleaner to break down organic material without chemicals. This eco-friendly approach maintains a clean and healthy drain system.

When to Call a Professional

One key indicator is when water drains slowly or not at all, despite attempts to clear it with over-the-counter solutions or a plunger. A consistently clogged drain could suggest a deeper blockage in the plumbing system that requires specialised tools to resolve.

Another situation that warrants professional intervention is when you notice unpleasant odours from the drain, which might indicate a build-up of debris or mould that household products can’t adequately address. If you hear unusual gurgling sounds when the water drains, it could signal a blockage or air trapped in the pipes, needing expert evaluation.

Recurring clogs raise another red flag. If you repeatedly deal with the same issue, it might indicate a more serious underlying problem. Tree roots may have infiltrated the pipes, or the pipes may have suffered damage. Professionals can diagnose and repair these issues.

If multiple drains in your home are backing up simultaneously, this could point to a mainline blockage, necessitating immediate professional attention to prevent potential water damage. Addressing these issues promptly with expert help can save you time, money, and hassle in the long run.

Keep Your Drains Flowing, Stress-Free

Maintaining your shower drains is essential to keeping them flowing smoothly and stress-free. Regular maintenance, such as clearing hair and debris, using a natural drain cleaner, and being mindful of what goes down the drain, can prevent blockages and costly repairs. When issues arise, knowing when to call in professional help is crucial.

Silver Drains is your trusted partner in managing blocked shower drains. With a team of skilled professionals and a commitment to excellent customer service, Silver Drains offers reliable solutions tailored to your needs.

Whether dealing with a stubborn shower clog or seeking regular maintenance, our expertise ensures your drains remain in top condition. Contact Silver Drains today to learn more about their services and keep your shower drains flowing effortlessly.