My shower won’t drain. What is the best way to unclog a shower drain that has standing water?
Dealing with a clogged shower drain is a common household problem that can be frustrating to deal with. Luckily it’s often an easy fix and it can be done without calling a plumber.
To unclog a shower drain that has standing water, try the following steps:
1. Remove the drain cover
Use a screwdriver to remove the drain cover.
2. Clean out any visible debris
Use a pair of pliers to remove any hair or debris that is visible in the drain.
3. Use a plunger first
Fill the shower with enough water to cover the plunger. Place the plunger over the drain and push down and up rapidly several times.
4. Try a drain snake
If the plunger doesn’t work, use a drain snake to break up and remove the clog. A drain snake is a long, flexible wire that can be inserted into the drain to break up and remove the clog in a shower drain.
To use a drain snake, insert the tip of the snake into the drain and turn the handle clockwise to push the snake deeper into the drain. Continue pushing the snake into the drain until you feel resistance, which means the snake has reached the clog. Once the snake has reached the clog, turn the handle counterclockwise to break up the clog and remove it from the drain.
Be very careful when using a drain snake, it can scratch and damage the inside of the drain if not used properly.
5. Try a natural homemade drain cleaner
If the plunger and drain snake methods don’t work, you can try using a natural drain cleaner made with baking soda and vinegar. This method is safe and eco-friendly, and can often be effective at breaking down and removing clogs.
To use this method, first pour 1/2 cup of baking soda down the clogged drain. Then, pour 1 cup of white vinegar down the drain and cover it with a drain plug or towel to keep the mixture from bubbling out of the drain. Let the mixture sit for about 30 minutes to an hour, then flush the drain with hot water.
The chemical reaction between the baking soda and vinegar creates a fizzy foam that helps to break down and dissolve the clog. This method may not work for all clogs, but it’s a safe and affordable option to try before resorting to harsh chemical drain cleaners or calling a plumber.
6. Use a commercial drain cleaner (as a last resort)
If none of the above methods work, use a commercial drain cleaner as a last resort. But realize these chemicals can be harmful to the environment and your pipes, and can also pose a safety risk if not used properly. Be sure to follow the instructions on the drain cleaner label carefully and wear protective gear such as gloves and safety glasses. And don’t use commercial drain cleaners too often, over time they can damage your pipes.