Shower drain clogs are one of the most common household plumbing issues that can disrupt your daily routine. Whether it’s due to hair, soap scum, or mineral buildup, a clogged drain can lead to slow drainage or even a complete blockage.
Thankfully, there are several simple and effective ways to clean your shower drain without calling in a professional. In this blog, we’ll explore five easy shower drain cleaning hacks that you can try at home, saving you both time and money.
Struggling with stubborn shower drain clogs that just won’t budge? If DIY fixes aren’t enough, Citywide Plumbers is here to help! Our team of experienced professionals offers expert shower drain repair, maintenance and installation services to get your shower running smoothly again.
Contact Citywide Plumbers on 020 3892 8545 or email info@citywideplumbers.co.uk for reliable, fast, and affordable plumbing services. Let us handle the hard work for you!
At Citywide Plumbers, we don’t just fix plumbing problems – we provide reliable, efficient, and professional service that you can count on, every time.
5 DIY Shower Drain Cleaning Hacks
1. Use Baking Soda And Vinegar For A Natural Clean
One of the most popular and effective DIY drain cleaning methods involves using everyday household items, such as baking soda and vinegar. The chemical reaction between these two substances can break down soap scum, mineral deposits, and minor clogs, leaving your drain smelling fresh and clean.
How to use it:
- Pour half a cup of baking soda into the drain.
- Follow it with half a cup of vinegar.
- Let the mixture sit for about 15 minutes to allow the reaction to break down any clogs.
- After 15 minutes, pour boiled water down the drain to flush everything away.
This method is not only safe and non-toxic, but it also helps prevent any future clogs, keeping your plumbing system running smoothly.
2. Try A Drain Snake For Tough Clogs
If you’re dealing with a more stubborn clog, a drain snake can be an effective tool for dislodging hair clogs or debris lodged deep in your shower drain. A drain snake is a long, flexible tool that can be inserted into the drain to grab or break up the blockage.
How to use it:
- Insert the snake into the drain opening and rotate it as you push it further down the drain.
- When you feel resistance, you’ve likely reached the clog. Pull the snake out and remove the debris.
- Once the blockage is cleared, run hot water to ensure the drain is thoroughly flushed.
Using a drain snake is a great way to avoid using harsh chemicals that can damage your pipes or harm the environment.
3. Prevent Future Clogs With A Hair Catcher Or Drain Cover
One of the simplest ways to keep your shower drain clear is by using a hair catcher or drain cover. These small accessories catch hair and other debris before they enter the drain, reducing the chance of future blockages.
Benefits:
- Hair catchers are inexpensive and easy to install.
- They help prevent hair clogs, which are one of the most common causes of clogged shower drains.
- Regularly cleaning the hair catcher will keep your shower drain free from clogs and save you the hassle of frequent drain cleaning.
By investing in a hair catcher, you’ll be able to keep your drains clear for longer periods, reducing the need for regular maintenance.
4. Boiling Water For Regular Maintenance
For minor clogs and to prevent buildup, pouring boiled water down your shower drain can be a quick and easy fix. The hot water helps break down grease, soap scum, and mineral deposits that may be causing the blockage.
How to use it:
- Boil about 2 to 3 litres of water.
- Slowly pour it into the drain, allowing the water to flow freely and flush away any minor clogs or debris.
- Repeat this process once a month as a preventative measure to keep your shower drain flowing smoothly.
Regularly using hot water for maintenance ensures that your shower doesn’t develop significant clogs that require professional intervention.
5. Lemon Juice For A Fresh Smell
Not only does lemon juice help clean, but it also has natural deodorising properties that can leave your shower drain smelling fresh. The acidity of lemon juice helps to break down minor clogs while providing a pleasant, citrus scent.
How to use it:
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice directly into the drain.
- Allow it to sit for 10 minutes.
- Follow with hot water to clear any loosened debris.
This simple method is perfect for maintaining a clog-free drain while also giving your bathroom a fresh, clean scent.
When To Call Professionals
While DIY shower drain cleaning hacks can be effective for minor clogs, there are times when it’s best to hire a professional. If your shower drain remains clogged despite trying the methods mentioned above, or if you notice standing water that won’t drain, it may indicate a more serious issue within your plumbing system.
Signs that it’s time to call professionals:
- Recurring clogged drains after regular maintenance.
- Unpleasant odours that don’t go away with cleaning.
- Standing water in your shower that doesn’t drain properly.
- Gurgling sounds are coming from your drain.
In these cases, Citywide Plumbers offers reliable, fast, and affordable plumbing services to fix any issues with your shower drain or plumbing system. Our team can quickly diagnose the cause of the problem and provide a solution that works.
Contact Citywide Plumbers for support
Connect With Citywide Plumbers Shower Drain Maintenance In West London
If you’re looking for trusted professionals to handle your shower drain maintenance in West London, look no further than Citywide Plumbers. With over 15 years of experience in the plumbing industry, we specialise in unclogging shower drains, performing DIY shower drain cleaning hacks, and offering long-term solutions to prevent shower clogs. Our team is fully certified, highly trained, and committed to delivering safe and eco-friendly services that avoid harsh chemicals while restoring your plumbing system to top condition.
We use industry-leading tools, such as drain snakes, and advocate for preventative measures like drain covers and hair catchers to keep your drains clog-free. Whether you’re dealing with standing water, hair clogs, or stubborn blockages, we’ve got the right solution. Choose Citywide Plumbers for efficient, affordable, and professional drain cleaning services and emergency plumbing that lasts.
Call on 020 3892 8545 or email info@citywideplumbers.co.uk – and keep your shower flowing freely!