There’s nothing worse than taking a much-needed shower after a long day and finding the water pooling up to your ankles or, worse, leaking throughout the bathroom.

Standing water and slow drainage are clear signs that your drain needs attention. Cleaning a shower drain may seem daunting, but with the right methods and regular maintenance, you can keep it clean and functioning efficiently.

In this one-stop guide, we’ll explain the best ways to clean shower drains and offer tips on maintaining them to prevent future clogs.

Why cleaning your shower drain is important

Regularly cleaning your shower drain is crucial for several reasons. It prevents clogs that can lead to slow drainage and standing water, which can be inconvenient and unhygienic. By removing hair, soap scum and other debris, you reduce the risk of unpleasant odours caused by bacteria and mould.

Maintaining a clear drain also helps protect your plumbing system from damage, potentially saving you from expensive repairs. A clean shower drain ensures a more efficient and enjoyable showering experience, improving your bathroom’s overall cleanliness and comfort.

How often you should be cleaning the shower drain

Regular maintenance prevents clogs and keeps your shower drain functioning smoothly. Ideally, you should clean your shower drain every month to remove hair clumps or soap buildup. However, the frequency can vary depending on usage. If you notice water draining slowly or detect unpleasant odours, it’s time to clean the drain immediately.

What to do before cleaning the shower drain

Before you start cleaning your shower drain, gathering all necessary tools and supplies is essential. Here’s a checklist to help you prepare:

• Rubber gloves — Protect your hands from dirt and chemicals.
• Toilet plunger — Useful for minor clogs.
• Drain snake — Effective for removing hair and debris lodged deeper in the drain.
• Bucket — To collect any dislodged debris or water.
• Baking soda and vinegar — Natural cleaning agents.
• Store-bought drain cleaner — For more stubborn clogs.
• Screwdriver (optional) — This can be used to remove the drain cover if needed.

Clear any clutter from your bathroom, such as shampoo, conditioner bottles, or razors lying around on the shower floor. Ensure the bathroom is well-ventilated by opening a window, especially if you plan to use chemical solutions. Remove any visible hair or debris around the drain opening. This initial step will make the cleaning process more manageable and effective.

How to clean a shower drain

There are several methods for cleaning a shower drain, ranging from simple household items to specialised tools. Here’s a detailed look at each method:

Toilet plunger

Cleaning the shower drain with a toilet plunger is a straightforward and effective method for minor clogs. Here’s how to do it:

1. Fill the shower — Add enough water to cover the bottom of the plunger.

2. Position the plunger — Place the plunger over the drain to create a seal.

3. Pump vigorously — Push and pull the plunger for about 20 seconds to create suction.

4. Check the drainage — If the water starts to drain, the clog is dislodged.

5. Flush with hot water — Rinse the area with hot water to ensure the clog is completely cleared.

Drain snake

A drain snake, also known as a plumber’s snake, is effective in cleaning the shower drain when removing hair and debris lodged deeper in the drain. Here’s how to use it:

1. Insert the snake — Push the snake into the drain until you feel resistance.

2. Rotate the handle — Turn the handle to latch onto the clog.

3. Pull out the debris — Slowly retract the snake, bringing the clog with it.

4. Run hot water — Flush the drain with hot water to clear any remaining particles.

Store-bought drain cleaner

Store-bought drain cleaners can be a quick fix for minor clogs. Follow these steps:

1. Read instructions — Follow the product label carefully.

2. Pour the solution — Pour the recommended amount down the drain.

3. Wait — Allow the solution to sit for the specified period.

4. Rinse with hot water — Flush the drain with hot water to clear the solution and the clog.

Be cautious when using chemical solutions, as they can be harsh on your pipes and the environment. Opt for eco-friendly products whenever possible.

Baking soda and vinegar

Using baking soda and vinegar is one of the best ways to clean shower drains with natural, eco-friendly products. Here’s how:

1. Pour baking soda — Add one cup of baking soda down the drain.

2. Add vinegar — Follow with one cup of vinegar.

3. Cover the drain — Place a cover or plug over the drain.

4. Wait — Let the mixture sit for about 30 minutes.

5. Flush with hot water — Pour hot water down the drain to flush out the clog.

The chemical reaction between baking soda and vinegar helps break down the clog and clean the drain effectively.

Preventing foul odours

Bacteria and mould buildup often cause foul odours from your shower drain. To prevent these smells, follow these tips:

• Regular shower drain cleaning — Clean your drain monthly to prevent buildup.
• Dry the drain — Ensure the drain stays dry when not in use.
• Use baking soda — Pour a mixture of baking soda and water down the drain weekly to neutralise odours.
• Drain cover — Use a drain cover to catch hair and debris, preventing them from accumulating in the pipes.

How to manage a clear drain for longer

Keeping your shower drain clear involves more than just regular shower drain cleaning. Here are some additional tips:

• Run hot water — After each shower, run hot water down the drain to help dissolve soap residue.
• Clean the drain cover — After showering, use a soft-bristle brush to clean the drain cover and prevent gunk from entering the pipes.

• Avoid large debris — Be mindful of what goes down the drain. Avoid washing large amounts of hair and soap scum into the drain.

• Regular maintenance — Perform regular maintenance checks to ensure the drain is clear.

When to contact a professional

While regularly cleaning the shower drain can prevent most clogs, there are times when professional help is necessary. If you’ve tried all standard methods like plunging, using a drain snake, or applying baking soda and vinegar without success, it’s time to call a professional.

Despite your efforts, persistent clogs that cause water to back up or slowly drain indicate a deeper issue in the plumbing system. If you notice foul odours that won’t go away or recurring blockages, a professional can diagnose and fix the problem efficiently. Seeking expert help ensures the issue is resolved thoroughly, preventing further damage and inconvenience.

Reach out to Jim’s Cleaning for professional home cleaning services

Regularly cleaning your shower drain is essential for a functional and pleasant bathroom experience. By following these methods and tips on how to clean a shower drain, you can keep your drain clear and prevent clogs.

If you’re in the market for a shower drain cleaner you can count on, Jim’s Bathroom & Toilet Cleaner is plant-derived and 100% chemical-free, so you can rest assured that you won’t do any damage to your shower pipes. It has rapid penetrating action to break down and clean accumulated debris, preventing long-term plumbing issues.
If you wish to outsource your bathroom cleaning to professionals, Jim’s Cleaning is here to help. Our professional home cleaning services ensure your drains are thoroughly cleaned and maintained. Request a free quote today, and we’ll get in touch as soon as possible.