We know that you have a hectic schedule, and the last thing you want to deal with is a clogged shower drain. Especially when all you want is a hot shower at the end of a long day, a clogged drain can seem like the ultimate nuisance.
While you can always call up your Denver plumbers to unclog your shower drain, most people would prefer to prevent a problem before it occurs. So, below, you’ll find our top tips for avoiding clogs in your shower drain. By implementing just a few new habits and maintenance tasks, you can keep your drains clear for many comfortable showers to come.
Our Tips For Nixing Shower Drain Clogs
Flushing The Drains
Adding “flush the drains” to your list of regular chores around the house is a great way to prevent future shower drain clogs. Flushing your shower drain once weekly will prevent debris from getting stuck in your pipes, thus stopping clogs from forming.
To flush your drain, all you need to do is boil water in a pot. Make sure the pot is big enough to accommodate plenty of water. Then, pour half of the water down the drain, let five minutes pass, and pour the rest. The hot water will unstick any debris in the pipes, ensuring that they stay clear.
Try Flushing The Drains At Once
Flushing all of your drains at the same time, rather than just flushing the shower drain, can be particularly helpful in stopping drain clogs. This is because all of your Denver plumbing is connected. So, by flushing the drains simultaneously, you’ll get the most benefit to your entire plumbing system.
Of course, flushing all of your drains at the same time is more difficult than doing one at a time. You’ll need a few helpers to flush the drains simultaneously, someone will need to be next to every drain/toilet in your home. Plug all of the drains in your home and pour in hot water. Then, with your helpers standing at the ready, have everyone open the drains or flush the toilet at the same time. This will send hot water through all of the pipes in your home, completing a thorough clean of the entire system.
Use a Mesh Drain Cover
A mesh drain cover for your shower is a simple and effective way to stop clogs due to the buildup of hair. Hair is a major culprit for shower drain clogs because it traps oil, grease, and soap, creating a blockage that water can’t get past. Mesh drain covers catch hair, keeping it from flowing down the drain. After you shower, you can simply tap out the contents of the drain cover into the trash can. Cleaning out the drain cover is far quicker and easier than cleaning out the pipes, making this solution an excellent option, especially if you have long hair!
Steer Clear of Grease and Oil
While a mesh drain cover can catch hair and other types of debris, it won’t prevent oil or soap from flowing down the drain. Shampoo, conditioner, and body oils all create a residue that can build up in the pipes over time, leading to shower drain clogs. While you can’t altogether prevent this residue and body oil from going down the drain, you can reduce the amount of shower products that you use. Using these products in excess increases the likelihood of drain clogs.
Give Natural Drain Cleaners a Go
For minor shower drain clogs, natural drain cleaners could do the trick. Vinegar and baking soda are both cheap options that you probably already have at home. Half of a bottle of white vinegar poured down the drain can clear out a small clog. Just be sure to leave the vinegar for 10 minutes before flushing the drain with hot water for the best results. If you use baking soda, simply pour some baking soda down the drain, followed by hot water. As a bonus, baking soda will naturally help reduce odors in your drains.
Get Help From a Professional Denver Plumber
When push comes to shove, enlisting the help of your Denver plumbers is the best way to take care of a stubborn shower drain clog. Contact Drain Terrier today for help with all of your plumbing needs.
