What clears hair in drains?
When you have a clog, you want it cleared FAST. Clogged shower drains are a pain, but they’re super common. We’ve got some easy DIY tips to help your drain flow again. You’ll be a drain-clearing pro in no time!
Causes of Hair Clogs
Hair is obviously the big culprit, but it’s not working alone. It teams up with soap scum, and before you know it, you’ve got a nasty blockage. Throw in some dirt and skin cells, and you’ve got yourself a real party down there.
Signs of a Clogged Drain
It’s obvious most of the time. If your shower looks more like a kiddie pool or a funky smell is coming from the drain, you’ve probably got a clog on your hands.
6 Methods to Unclog Hair from the Drain
Boiling Water
This one’s super simple. Just boil up some water and pour it down the drain. It’s like magic – it can melt away soap and grease. Pro tip: Use a funnel or measuring cup for a smoother pour. If it doesn’t work the first time, give it another go. Sometimes, you have to be patient with these things.
Baking Soda and Vinegar
Remember those science fair volcanoes? We’re basically doing that in your drain.
Here’s how:
- Pour about a half cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by a cup of vinegar, to create a chemical reaction.
- Cover the drain (this is important!).
- Let it sit for a while, then flush with hot water.
It’s cheap, it’s easy, and it’s kinda fun. Plus, you’re not dumping harsh chemicals down there.
Reach in and Pull It Out
Yeah, it’s gross, but sometimes you have to do what you have to do. Put on some gloves, take off the drain cover, and see if you can grab that hairball. It’s not glamorous, but it often does the trick. Keep a trash bag handy and use rubber gloves if you want.
DIY Drain Snake
Got a wire hanger lying around? Congrats, you’ve got a drain snake! Bend it into a hook shape and fish out that clog. If you’re feeling fancy, you can buy a real drain snake, but the hanger works in a pinch.
Chemical Drain Cleaners
Look, sometimes you need to bring out the big guns. Chemical cleaners can work wonders and simply dissolve hair, but use them sparingly. They’re tough on clogs, but they can also be tough on your pipes. Always follow the instructions, and don’t ever mix different chemicals. That’s a disaster waiting to happen.
Use a Plunger
Yep, that trusty toilet tool can also work on your shower drain! Add water to the shower, slap that plunger over the drain, and go to town. It might take a few tries, but hey, it’s good arm exercise, right?
Hair Clog Prevention
There are a few simple habits that can help prevent hair clogs in the first place.
- Brush your hair before showering. If you have long hair, this can go a long way toward eliminating the loose hair that forms clogs.
- Use a hair catcher on your drain. These inexpensive little screens catch hair before it goes down the drain at all.
- Routinely run very hot water down the drain. This helps melt away grease and soap scum, preventing clogs from forming.
Call in the Pros
If you’ve tried everything and that drain’s still acting up, it might be time to call a plumber. Don’t be ashamed; they’ve seen it all.
Give these methods a try next time your drain’s acting up. Who knows? You might discover your hidden talent as an amateur plumber!
Need more help or want to leave the dirty work to the pros? Give us a shout at Service Minds Benjamin Franklin Plumbing. We’re your punctual plumbers; we promise to show up on time and provide expert drain cleaning services for all your toughest clogs. Reach out and schedule your appointment today!