How to Prevent a Clogged Shower Drain

No one wants to stand in ankle-deep water while showering, the universal signal that something’s wrong with your drain. We’ve all been there before, wondering how to unclog the shower drain without making things worse. The real trick isn’t just to fix the clog but to avoid it in the first place. Follow this simple guide to prevent clogged shower drains and skip the hassle of unclogging later.

Why Is Preventing Clogged Shower Drains Important?

When soap scum, hair, or other bathroom grime clogs your drain, you may be subjected to slow draining, unpleasant odors, water damage, or expensive repair bills. Getting hair out of a shower drain after things go wrong is messy and time-consuming. You would undoubtedly prefer a shower that flows freely, smells fresh, and doesn’t cause a plumbing emergency. The best way to achieve this is to prevent clogged shower drains before they start.

7 Ways to Prevent Shower Drain Clogs

Try these effective tips to keep your shower drain flowing free and clear:

• Brush your hair before getting in. Brushing captures loose strands before they hit the drain. This simple pre-shower habit prevents most clogs from forming.
• Use a mesh hair catcher or drain cover. These inexpensive tools catch hair and soap buildup before it slips into the pipes. Clean them regularly to keep the water flowing smoothly without the need for plungers or drain augers.
• Flush regularly with hot water. Once a week, pour a pot of near-boiling water down the drain. The heat helps dissolve soap residue and oils that cling to the sides of the pipe, preventing minor buildup from turning into a major clog.
• Skip harsh chemical cleaners. Strong formulas may clear a clog today, but they can damage your plumbing over time. Instead, combine baking soda and vinegar for a natural, pipe-friendly method. Let the mixture sit for 30 minutes before rinsing with hot water.
• Avoid pouring greasy or gritty substances down the drain. Cooking grease, oily bathroom products, and mop water don’t belong down your shower drain. Dispose of these materials elsewhere to avoid drain problems.
• Use a plunger for minor backups. If you notice the water slowing, pull out a plunger fast. Place it over the drain and pump gently until the water flows normally again. This DIY step can save you from calling a plumber.
• Schedule professional maintenance. Even avid DIYers need backup sometimes. A licensed plumber can perform a deep flush, hydro jetting, or a detailed inspection to catch hidden buildup. This preventative maintenance helps avoid clogs later on.

Tough Shower Drain Clogs Require Expert Help

If you’re struggling to get hair out of the shower drain, it’s time to call a professional. Expert Plumbing Service is a family-owned company serving homes and businesses in DuPage, Will, Kendall, and Kane Counties. We’re licensed, certified, and have completed more than 100,000 jobs in the past three decades. Contact us today to schedule same-day service, or join our loyalty club to receive guaranteed scheduling and annual inspections.