Clogged Shower Drain: The Right Way to Clean It

This method works well for maintaining a clean drain and preventing clogs from building up again in the future.

#### **7. Rinse with Hot Water**
After using any of the above methods, it’s essential to rinse the drain with hot water. Boil a kettle or use the hottest tap water available and pour it down the drain. This will help clear away any remaining debris and residues, and it can also help remove mineral deposits from hard water, which can sometimes contribute to clogs.

#### **8. Prevent Future Clogs**
To prevent future clogs, consider the following tips:
– **Install a drain strainer**: This will catch hair, soap, and other debris before it has a chance to go down the drain.
– **Clean the drain regularly**: Make it a habit to clean your shower drain at least once a month to prevent the buildup of soap scum, hair, and other debris.
– **Use natural drain cleaners**: Once every couple of months, treat your drain to a natural cleaner made of baking soda and vinegar to keep it fresh and clear.

### When to Call a Professional
While most clogs can be cleared using the methods above, there are times when you may need to call a professional plumber:
– If the clog is particularly stubborn and no amount of plunging, snaking, or natural cleaning helps.
– If you notice recurring clogs in multiple drains in your home, as this could indicate a deeper issue in your plumbing system.
– If water is backing up into other areas of your home or flooding your bathroom.

A plumber can use specialized tools like a hydro jetter or video inspection to get to the root of the problem and clear the pipes effectively.

### Conclusion

Dealing with a clogged shower drain doesn’t have to be a major headache. With a few simple tools and techniques, you can usually fix the problem yourself. Start by removing visible debris, then try plunging or using a drain snake to clear the blockage. If those don’t work, natural remedies like baking soda and vinegar can help break down the buildup. Regular maintenance is key to keeping your drains flowing smoothly and avoiding future clogs. However, don’t hesitate to call in a professional if the problem persists or if you’re facing a larger plumbing issue.

With the right approach, you’ll have your shower drain cleaned and working perfectly in no time!