A bath is a wonderful way to relax and wind down after a busy day. If your shower drains slowly or even worse, does not drain at all, you can ruin the therapeutic experience. Cleaning your shower drain can help prevent most issues with shower drainage. Continue reading to find out when and how you should clean your shower drain.
How often should you clean your shower drain?
Clean the drains in your regularly used shower once a week to keep it running smoothly and prevent odors. Showers used less frequently, such as those in guest bathroom and spare rooms, should be cleaned every three months. Shower drain cleaning is essential to keep your plumbing and shower in top condition.
What you’ll need
What you need to clean your shower drain
- Water (both hot and boiling)
- Soap
- Drain snakes, electric or manual
- Baking soda
- Vinegar
- Melamine sponge
- Washcloths that are clean
Step 1: Clean Drain Cover
Be sure to clean the drain cover before removing it. Grab your gloves, lift the drain cover and remove any soap scum or hair that is stuck on. Let the drain cover soak in warm, soapy, water for a few minutes if it is still dirty.
Step 2: Remove the drain snake
Once you have access to your drain, it is time to use the auger (also known as a drain snake). Drain snakes can be used to remove large clogs, often made up of hair. Your drain snake can be either electric (operated using a drill) (or manual (operated manually).
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for best results. Here are some tips: Push the snake down the drain until it feels resistance. You’ve encountered a clog. Rotate the snake to catch the blockage, then slowly remove it and dispose of the blockage. You risk losing the clog if you pull up the drain snake too quickly.
Step 3: Add Vinegar and Baking Soda
Baking soda and vinegar are two household items that can help you clear the rest of your drain. Boil four cups of hot water. Pour the boiling water into the drain, followed by a cup baking soda. Pour a cup white Vinegar into the drain. Let it sit there for 15 to 1 hour depending on the condition of the drain. The mixture should begin to fizz.
Step 4: Rinse it Out
Turn on the hot water in your shower after this time. Allow it to run for a few moments in order to remove any remaining vinegar and baking powder mixture. Replace the drain cover and rinse off any soapy water that has soaked into it.
Step 5: Cleanse the Surrounding Area
After you have cleaned and reassembled your drain, it’s time to clean around the drain. It probably got dirty between all the snaking and pulling. Scuff marks, grime, and buildup can be removed with a melamine sponge dampened in water. To remove any dirt left by the sponge, use a clean, damp washcloth.
How to keep your shower drain clean longer
Shower drain cleaning is not a fun task. Keep these tips in mind to keep your shower drain cleaner longer.
- On top of the drain cover, place a hair catcher that can be easily removed or a drain screen. These screens will prevent hair from entering your drain and stop it from becoming clogged.
- Avoid body wash, conditioner, and shampoos that contain large particles, such as oatmeal or other exfoliating materials. These ingredients can cause a blockage in your drain. If you don’t want to give up the oatmeal facial scrub, flush any particles in your pipes for a few minutes with hot water.
