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Unless you have a plumber to fix your bathroom, you probably don’t have the time to learn how to unclog a shower drain. There are several methods available to you, including baking soda and vinegar, a plunger, or even a plumber’s snake. Avoid chemicals and try one of these methods first. It might just work for you. But be careful! You don’t want to damage your shower drain, so you should use them only if they’ve failed.
Using baking soda and vinegar
Using baking soda and vinegar to unclogged a shower drain has been around for generations, but in the year 2020, the method has received renewed popularity thanks to the TikTok challenge. The combination of baking soda and vinegar causes a chemical reaction to unclog drains by creating a foaming effervescence. This mixture is effective at removing clogs, but be sure to measure out the ingredients carefully.
One of the easiest ways to clear your drain is to pour boiling water and baking soda down it. This will create an explosive chemical reaction that should loosen any buildup in the drain. Once the baking soda and vinegar solution have combined, you can pour the mixture into the drain and allow the clog to dissolve. The next step is to run a boiling water flush to remove any remaining debris in the drain.
If you still can’t unclog the drain with this method, you can try using a plunger to force the blocked drain to release the water. It is best to use a flat or cup-style plunger. Repeat the process as needed, as the cleaning solution may be diluted or even evaporate. If the solution is not strong enough, it can cause damage to the shower drain.
Another option is to use a drain snake to unclog the drain. You can purchase an electric or manual auger to unclog your drain. The electric auger requires a power drill and the manual auger requires you to turn the handle by hand. When you are done, you will have a clear drain! But if this doesn’t work for you, there are a number of other methods you can use to clean your shower drain.
Using a plunger
You may have trouble with your shower drain if it is clogged, but there are several ways to unclog it yourself. You can use a plunger to force the clog out, but the plunger’s suction may not be strong enough to clear a deep clog. You can seal the edges of the plunger with petroleum jelly before trying to unclog the drain.
Often, the clog is caused by hair. If it’s not due to hair, try pouring baking soda and vinegar down the drain. You may need to use a flashlight to help you see the blockage, but you will be able to remove it with your hands. In addition to your hands, you can also use a hook, wire, or clothing hanger to pull out the blockage.
If you don’t have an electric plunger, you can use a standard plunger. These work by sucking water through the drain. Plungers are best suited for sinks, but they can also be used in shower drains. If you are unsure which plunger to use, make sure to read the instructions carefully. A plunger is designed to unclog toilets, so use a standard plunger for your shower drain.
If you cannot clear a clog in your shower drain yourself, consider hiring a plumber. These plumbers are trained to handle all kinds of plumbing issues, and should be able to solve even the most stubborn clogs. Fortunately, the tools you need to unclog your shower drain are often in your home. You can save money on a plumber’s services by attempting the task yourself.
Using a plumber’s snake
There are a couple of things to keep in mind when using a plumber’s snake to unclogged a shower drain. First, be sure to place the snake head into the drain, preferably in a wall access point. Make sure that hot water is turned off, as hot water can cause damage to pipes. Don’t push the snake head into the drain by force, as this can damage the pipe or drain entrance. Finally, the snake’s head and cable should be the proper length to unclog the drain.
To get a cleaner, longer snake, you can cut the cable and attach it to the end of a zip tie. Place a trash can near the drain and wipe out the goop using a tissue or cotton swab. Careful handling is advised, as the cable snake may fling the goop down the drain. Then, repeat the process.
A plumber’s snake can help remove any clog from a shower drain by digging through the clog. These tools are typically used to unclog kitchen and bathroom sinks, as well as washing machines. For a small fee, you can purchase a plumber’s snake and use it to unclog your shower drain. If you use an electric snake, make sure to switch the device on so it can reach the clog.
Using a plumber’s snake to clear a shower drain can be a messy procedure, but the results will be worth the effort. A plumber’s snake has a long, flexible cable, and can fish out hair and gunk from the drain. It rotates in the drain to disassemble the clog. If the snake doesn’t work, you may need to clean up the area with disposable gloves and a trash bag.
Avoiding chemicals
One of the best ways to avoid having to deal with a clogged shower drain is to avoid using any harsh chemicals. While chemical drain cleaners do offer a quick solution, they can damage pipes and cause bigger problems than they are worth. A hair trap, for instance, can prevent clogging. In addition, using shower gel instead of bar soap will keep your tile and grout cleaner. These methods are both safe and effective.
A solution of baking soda and vinegar works wonders on stubborn clogs. Both the baking soda and the vinegar create a fizzing effect that dislodges the clog. For a faster solution, mix a half-cup of baking soda with half a cup of white vinegar and pour the mixture down the drain. Once the mixture is combined, run a hot shower or bath for several minutes to ensure it works.
Another option for unclogging a shower drain is to use a drain cleaner. These products can work well on stubborn clogs but be sure to wear rubber gloves and safety goggles while using drain cleaners. Chemical drain cleaners contain harsh chemicals that can damage your pipes and your skin. If your drain cleaner does not work the first time, make sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions. If you have to use chemicals to unclog a shower drain, do it only when you have to. It’s also better to call a professional plumber instead of dealing with an unclogged drain yourself.
There are many different chemical drain cleaners available for purchase at hardware stores and supermarkets. You can also buy special chemical drain cleaners that are made for this task. However, you must be careful to never mix chemicals as mixing them can result in a harmful gas being released. Additionally, some chemicals can damage your drainage pipes. Still, chemical drain cleaners are fast and easy and can work for a clogged shower drain, but they should be avoided whenever possible.
Cleaning the shower after showering
Whether you’re a fan of natural products or chemical cleaners, cleaning the bathroom after a shower is a worthwhile project. Aside from preventing bacteria and mold growth, this task is also easy and convenient. To get started, remove all of the shower’s accessories, turn on the bathroom fan and gather your supplies. Among the supplies you’ll need is a squeegee, which can be purchased for $7 at Target. Using a squeegee, you can remove any excess water on walls and doors. A straightened wire hanger works well to unclog a drain.
A distilled white vinegar solution works well on soap scum and dirt. It can safely be used on ceramic tiles, fiberglass, and some natural materials, but it may damage marble or other stone surfaces. For a more thorough cleaning, mix distilled white vinegar with some dish soap and scrub the walls and floors thoroughly. A dry plastic scrubber also works well. If you prefer to clean the shower walls and floors with a chemical solution, you can add a pinch of baking soda to the solution.
To clean the shower after showering, you must rinse the walls thoroughly. Then, use a microfiber towel or a spray bottle to wipe down the walls. To avoid leaving water marks or residue on the walls, you should always work from the top tiles downwards. If you have natural stone shower walls, dry them with a microfiber towel and then polish them with a dry cloth. If possible, try using a fan to remove excess humidity.
While it is easy to clean the shower after a shower, it is important to make it a part of your daily cleaning routine. Regular cleaning keeps the shower smelling fresh and clean until the next time you use it. Once you’ve cleaned the walls and floor, you can move on to the rest of the shower. Clean the shower after showering with a spray-and-go solution to remove dirt and mold. If you have a stone or travertine shower walls, however, a spray-and-go solution is not recommended.
