What to Do If Your Shower Drain Keeps Clogging

Understanding why your shower drain is clogging

Before jumping into solutions, let’s understand what might be causing the problem. Common culprits include:

• Hair Buildup: The most frequent offender.
• Soap Scum: Residue from soap and body wash can combine with hair and dirt to create sticky blockages.
• Mineral Deposits: If you have hard water, minerals can accumulate in the pipes over time.
• Foreign Objects: Small items like razor caps or jewelry can accidentally fall into the drain and cause a blockage.

Now that we know what you’re up against, let’s dive into solutions based on the severity of the clog.

Quick fixes for mild clogs

A mild clog is when water drains slower than usual but doesn’t yet pool excessively. These clogs are typically near the surface and are easy to address.

Start by inspecting the drain cover. Hair and debris often accumulate just below it. Use a pair of gloves or tweezers to remove as much as you can. Then, heat a kettle of water and let it cool for a bit before slowly pouring it down the drain in stages. The heat can dissolve soap scum and minor blockages. Do NOT use boiling hot water.

A mixture of baking soda and vinegar can also help. Pour a half cup of baking soda into the drain and follow it up with a half cup of vinegar. Let it sit for 15–30 minutes, then flush with hot water.

Step it up for moderate blockages

Moderate clogs are when water pools around your feet while showering, and it can take minutes to drain afterward. At this stage, the blockage is more stubborn but can be tackled.

A plunger or drain snake combined with some elbow grease can dislodge the blockage. If you don’t have a drain snake, a straightened wire hanger with a small hook at the end can work in a pinch.

Severe clog? Time to call the pros

If your shower drain remains stubbornly clogged despite your efforts, or if water won’t drain at all, then it’s time for professional plumbing service. Severe clogs often indicate deeper issues, such as major obstructions like tree roots or misaligned or damaged pipes.

The plumbers in Denison, TX at Mr. Rooter Plumbing use specialized tools like hydro-jetting and motorized drain augers to tackle stubborn blockages efficiently and effectively. We can also inspect your pipes with cameras to pinpoint the exact cause of the issue.

Moreover, our plumbers come prepared to handle most clogged drain line repair the first time around in the event that the blockage has damaged the pipes. Call or message us today to get in touch.