How to Get Hair Out of Your Shower or Bathtub Drain

A clogged shower or bathtub drain can turn a relaxing shower into a frustrating experience. Hair is one of the most common culprits behind clogged drains. Fortunately, there are several effective methods to tackle this issue, using both household items and professional tools. This guide provides step-by-step instructions on how to remove hair from your shower or bathtub drain and includes expert tips on preventing future clogs.

1. Boiling Water

Materials Needed:

• Pot or kettle

• Water

Steps:

1. Boil a pot or kettle of water.

2. Slowly pour the boiling water down the drain. The hot water will help melt the grease holding the hair clog together.

3. Wait 15 minutes, then run the shower to check if the water flows freely. If the clog persists, try another method.

2. Baking Soda and Vinegar

Materials Needed:

• 1 cup (128 grams) baking soda

• 1 cup (240 mL) distilled white vinegar

• Pot or kettle

• Water

Steps:

1. Pour 1 cup of baking soda down the drain.

2. Follow with 1 cup of vinegar. The mixture will fizz and bubble, dissolving hair and grime.

3. Let the mixture sit for 15 minutes.

4. Boil a pot of water and pour it down the drain to flush out the baking soda, vinegar, and dissolved hair.

3. Using a Vacuum

Materials Needed:

• Wet vacuum

• Flathead screwdriver

• Pliers

Steps:

1. Remove the drain guard using a screwdriver or pliers.

2. Place the wet vacuum hose directly against the drain and turn the vacuum on.

3. The vacuum will extract hair, soap scum, and other debris from the drain.

4. Replace the drain guard and run the water to ensure the drain is clear.

4. By Hand

Materials Needed:

• Rubber gloves

• Flashlight

• Pliers or tweezers (optional)

Steps:

1. Remove the drain guard.

2. Wear rubber gloves and reach into the drain to pull out hair and debris.

3. Use a flashlight to locate the clog if it's not visible.

4. Optionally, use pliers or tweezers to grab the hair.

5. Replace the drain guard and run the water to check for clogs.

5. Coat Hanger Hook

Materials Needed:

• Wire coat hanger

• Flathead screwdriver

Steps:

1. Straighten a wire coat hanger, leaving a small hook at one end.

2. Remove the drain guard with a screwdriver.

3. Insert the hook into the drain and fish out the hair clog.

4. Rinse the drain with boiling water to clear out any remaining debris.

6. Drain Snake or Auger

Materials Needed:

• Plastic drain snake or metal auger

• Rubber gloves

• Safety glasses

Steps:

1. Remove the drain guard.

2. Insert the drain snake or auger into the drain until you feel resistance.

3. Rotate the snake or auger counterclockwise to break up the clog.

4. Slowly pull the tool out, removing the hair.

5. Rinse the drain with hot water and replace the guard.

7. Plunger

Materials Needed:

• Cup plunger

• Pot or kettle

• Water

Steps:

1. Remove the drain guard.

2. Fill the tub with enough water to cover the plunger's lip.

3. Place the plunger over the drain and push up and down for a few minutes.

4. The force of the water will dislodge the hair clog.

5. Flush the drain with boiling water and replace the guard.

8. Chemical Drain Cleaners

Materials Needed:

• Chemical drain cleaner

• Rubber gloves

• Safety glasses

Steps:

1. Follow the instructions on the chemical cleaner's label.

2. Pour the cleaner down the drain and let it sit for the recommended time.

3. Flush the drain with hot water.

4. Use this method as a last resort due to potential environmental harm and damage to pipes.

9. Calling a Professional Plumber

Steps:

1. If none of the above methods work, contact a professional plumber.

2. Inform the plumber of the methods and cleaners you've used to avoid damage to the pipes.

3. Professionals may use tools like air pressure guns to clear the clog.

Preventing Hair Clogs in Your Shower Drain

1. Use a Hair Catcher

A hair catcher can efficiently prevent hair from entering the drain. Clean it daily by removing hair and discarding it in the trash.

2. Brush Hair Before Showering

Brush your hair before or after showering to reduce loose hair going down the drain. If you need to brush your hair in the shower, collect the hair and discard it in the trash.

3. Monthly Maintenance

Flush the drain monthly with a mixture of baking soda and vinegar to prevent buildup. Pour 1 cup of baking soda and 1 cup of vinegar down the drain, wait 10 minutes, then flush with boiling water.

Conclusion

Regular maintenance and proper techniques can keep your shower or bathtub drain free from hair clogs. By using household items like baking soda, vinegar, and boiling water, or tools like drain snakes and plungers, you can effectively remove clogs without resorting to harmful chemicals.

Preventive measures such as using hair catchers and regular cleaning will help maintain clear drains and avoid future issues. If all else fails, professional plumbers are equipped to handle stubborn clogs safely and efficiently.

Related

• How to Efficiently Clean a Clogged Drain
• How to Clean Drains: A Complete Guide to Eliminating Odors and Clogs
• How to Unclog a Drain with Baking Soda and Vinegar
• Is Your Shower Drain Getting Smelly? Here's the Easiest Way To Clean It

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