Clogged shower drains are a huge pain and can cause costly repairs. However, there are many smart ways to prevent hair clogs from occurring in the first place. One easy solution is a hair catcher. This device fits over the tub or shower drain and catches loose strands before they can go down the pipe and cause a clog.
Signs of Hair Clogs
Another sign of a hair clog is a foul smell from the tub or sink. This is because hair masses obstructing water flow cause it to drain slower or, in severe cases, to stop draining altogether and create a potential health and safety hazard for your home.
Keeping up with prevention is the best way to avoid these problems and prevent the need for expensive tub or shower repair, but if you’ve already got a clog, don’t panic! You can still handle the issue with these simple and affordable steps.
Use a Hair Catcher Drain Cover
A simple but effective solution is to have a hair catcher drain cover or drain strainer that fits over or inside the shower drain to keep loose hair, soap, and grime from flowing down the drain. While these devices won’t completely prevent clogs, they can significantly reduce the risk and are easy to clean.
If you don’t want to invest in a specialized drain cover, consider using a recycled dryer sheet to line your shower drain while you’re washing. The sheet acts as a fine mesh that traps hair, soap, and other debris to prevent them from flowing down the drain. When you’re finished, simply remove the sheet and dispose of it.
Regularly Clean & Maintain Drains
Very long hair and soap scum buildup can lead to blocked drains, so it’s important to keep up with regular maintenance. You can do this by pouring a bottle of white vinegar down your shower drain once every 3 months and by making it a part of your weekly cleaning routine to scrub your drain with a wire brush or zip-it tool to loosen any hairs that have made their way into the pipe.
Investing in a non corrosive, biodegradable drain cleaner that will break down and remove residue without damaging your pipes is also a good idea. Be sure to read and follow the product’s instructions before using it.
Another preventative step is to flush your drains monthly or bimonthly by pouring hot water. This helps dissolve any hair or soap scum before it becomes a major clog. If you have pets, consider bathing them in a baby tub or outside to minimize the amount of hair in your drains. If you do experience a blocked drain, keep a clog remover at hand to break up the clog and get things flowing again.
Brush Hair Before Showering
Another easy but effective prevention strategy is to brush your hair before you shower each day to reduce the number of stray strands that end up in your drain. This practice takes just a few minutes, costs nothing, and could save you from costly plumbing repairs or continuous purchases of chemical-clogged drain cleaners like baking soda. The best thing is that this method is also eco-friendly and supports green home maintenance practices.
The hairs in your head are protected from breakage and split ends by the natural oils that coat each strand. When the hair is wet, these oils are gone, and the strands are much more likely to break or split. This is why it’s so important to brush your hair regularly.
Wet hair is also less resilient than dry, making it susceptible to damage and dull texture. Regular brushing reduces this, making healthier, more resilient hair less likely to clog drains.
Install a Drain Maintenance System
A drain stopper on the market sits above or inside your tub and shower drains to trap hair, soap scum, dirt, and grime before it goes down the drain. These are easy to clean and save you from clogged pipes and expensive plumbing services.
It’s also a good idea to install a drain screen, which hangs over the drain and traps any additional gunk. These drain screens are easy to install and can be purchased at most hardware stores. Also, avoid pouring oils down the drain and wipe off any oil-based beauty or body products before showering.
Avoid Washing Pets in the Shower
Hair is a common cause of sink, shower, and bathtub drains. When not brushed away, loose strands can intertwine with other sediments and build up to the point where standing water no longer moves freely through the pipes. The good news is that there are ways to help prevent this.
Avoid washing pets in the shower to prevent hair clogs in your shower drainage system. Pet hair easily accumulates and can quickly cause blockages, leading to slow drains and potential plumbing issues. Instead, opt for alternative washing methods, such as using a dedicated pet bath or washing them outside.
Consider using a removable drain cover or a hair catcher designed for pet grooming if indoor washing is necessary. Regular maintenance and cleaning of these tools can also help clear your plumbing. These precautions ensure a more efficient drainage system and save you from costly repairs.
Conclusion
Preventing hair clogs in your shower drain is essential for maintaining a smoothly functioning plumbing system and avoiding costly repairs. By incorporating these preventative strategies into your routine, you can clear your drains, ensure efficient water flow, and enjoy a hassle-free shower experience.
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