Clogged shower drains are an all-too-common household nuisance. If you have ever dealt with standing water in the tub or noticed that water is draining slower than usual, chances are hair is the culprit. Understanding how to get hair out of the shower drain is essential for maintaining a clean and functioning bathroom.
Hair easily tangles around soap scum, grime, and other debris, forming clumps that slow or completely block the flow of water. It does not take much buildup to cause a significant issue. The good news is that with the right methods and a little consistency, you can remove blockages efficiently and even prevent them in the future. Read on to get informed!
Best Ways To Remove Hair From The Shower Drain
Before calling in a professional, there are several tried-and-true techniques to help unclog your shower or bathtub drain full of hair by yourself. These methods are safe, effective, and can save you time and money, especially when used as part of a regular maintenance routine.
Use Your Hands (With Gloves)
This one may not be the most pleasant method, but it is often the most straightforward. Put on a pair of rubber gloves and manually remove the hair. Once you have caught all the hair, you can also use a plastic bag and turn it inside out so you do not have to stare Cousin Itt, who is living in your drain, directly in the eyes. Use a flashlight to see inside and grab any visible clumps.
Try A Drain Snake Or Hair Removal Tool
Drain snakes or plastic hair catchers with barbs are specifically designed to pull hair from deep inside the drain. Insert the tool, twist it slightly, and pull it out. You may be surprised by how much hair is stuck inside.
Baking Soda And Vinegar
If your shower drain clogged with hair is not responding to manual efforts, a natural solution like baking soda and vinegar can help. Pour half a cup of baking soda into the drain, followed by a cup of vinegar. Wait 15–30 minutes, then flush with hot water. Salt, baking soda, and lemon juice also make a good combo that can reduce buildup over time.
How To Dissolve Hair In The Shower Drain Without Damaging Pipes?
There are chemical drain cleaners that advertise they can dissolve hair, but they may damage your pipes over time if used too frequently. Instead, consider enzyme-based cleaners. These work more slowly but are safe for regular use and can help maintain clean pipes over time.
When considering what will dissolve hair in a drain, always read the product labels and choose one that specifically mentions its compatibility with hair and pipes. Do not rely on these products as your only solution; combine them with physical cleaning methods for the best results. And maybe consider adding a grease trap to your house to make drain upkeep a little easier.
Prevent Future Hair Clogs With These Tips
Prevention is just as important as cleaning. Taking proactive steps can save you from dealing with stubborn clogs and unexpected plumbing issues. Here are a few simple ways to reduce hair buildup in your drains:
- Install a drain cover to catch loose strands before they go down the pipe.
- Brush your hair before showering to reduce shedding in the bathroom.
- Clean the drain weekly to prevent buildup and odors.
Keeping up with these habits will make it much less likely that you will have to deal with a clogged drain again. By keeping your drains clear, you also extend the lifespan of your plumbing and avoid costly repairs. Prevention is always easier and cheaper than repair. Imagine having a whole clogged sewer line because of hair!
If these solutions do not work or you prefer a hands-free fix, our experienced team at eHARDHAT plumbing is here to help. We have the tools and expertise to get hair out of the shower drain just right. Contact us for a free quote and to schedule a professional drain cleaning for a relaxing shower and bath experience!
