A shower is supposed to be a relaxing retreat — a place to wash away the stress of the day. But nothing ruins that experience faster than standing ankle-deep in slow-draining water or, worse, dealing with a completely clogged drain. Hair clogs are a common problem, but they don’t have to be an inevitable part of your shower routine.
In this blog, we’ll go over how to prevent hair from clogging shower drain pipes and share some practical tips for keeping your drains clear.
Why Hair Clogs Your Shower Drain
Before we can discuss the best way to keep hair out of shower drain pipes, it’s helpful to know why hair clogs form in the first place. Each time you wash your hair, loose strands are washed down the drain. Over time, these strands accumulate and mix with soap scum, oils, and other debris, creating a sticky, tangled mess that can block your pipes and prevent water flow.
The Anatomy of a Hair Clog
Hair clogs usually form in the trap of your shower drain. This U-shaped pipe is designed to catch debris before it can travel further into your plumbing system, but it also makes it a prime spot for clogs. Once hair starts to build up, it creates a net that catches more and more debris, leading to a complete blockage.
Common Signs of a Hair Clog
Keep an eye out for these indicators that your shower drain may be starting to get blocked by hair:
- Slow Draining Water: If water takes longer than usual to drain from your shower, it’s a sign that a clog is forming.
- Standing Water: Water that pools around your feet while you shower indicates a significant blockage.
- Unpleasant Odors: Hair and soap scum trapped in your drain can create bad smells.
How to Stop Hair From Clogging Your Shower Drain
Preventing hair clogs requires a combination of daily habits and occasional deep cleaning. Here are some effective strategies to keep your drains clear:
Use a Hair Catcher
If you want to know how to stop hair from clogging your shower drain, one of the simplest and most effective tips is to use a hair catcher. These inexpensive devices fit over your drain and trap hair before it can enter the pipes. Regularly clean out the hair catcher to keep it functioning properly.
Many homeowners may consider this to be the best way to keep hair out of shower drain pipes, as it’s simple but effective. These handy gadgets fit over the drain, allowing water to flow through while trapping any loose hairs.
Brush Your Hair Before Showering
Brushing your hair before you shower can significantly reduce the amount of loose hair that ends up in your drain. This is especially helpful for those with long hair. By removing loose strands beforehand, you can prevent them from causing clogs.
Install a Drain Cover
Similar to a hair catcher, a drain cover can help catch hair and other debris before it goes down the drain. You can find drain covers at your local hardware store. Choose one that fits snugly over your drain for maximum effectiveness.
Regularly Clean Your Drain
Even with preventative measures, some hair will inevitably make its way into your pipes. Regularly cleaning your drain can help prevent buildup. If you’re currently dealing with a minor hair drain clog, consider trying this DIY method:
- Run Hot Water: Pour hot water down the drain to help dissolve soap scum and loosen any hair clogs.
- Use Baking Soda and Vinegar: Pour a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by a cup of white vinegar. Let it sit for 15 minutes, then flush with hot water.
- Remove Debris Manually: If you can see or reach the clog, use a pair of rubber gloves to remove it manually.
How to Prevent Hair From Clogging Shower Drain Pipes
Preventing hair from clogging your shower drain pipes involves a combination of proactive habits and regular maintenance. Here are some additional tips:
Try a Shower Cap
Wearing a shower cap can prevent hair from entering the drain altogether. This is especially useful for those who don’t wash their hair every day. It might not be stylish, but it’s effective!
Use a Fabric Softener Sheet
A used fabric softener sheet can be placed over the drain to catch hair. This is a budget-friendly alternative to a hair catcher and can be discarded after each use.
Regularly Clean Your Shower Area
Keeping your shower area clean can prevent hair and other debris from building up and causing clogs. Wipe down surfaces and remove any hair from the shower floor after each use.
Use Natural Solutions
Consistency is key when it comes to avoiding a clogged shower drain. By adopting good habits and performing regular maintenance, you can stop hair from clogging your shower drain and avoid the hassle of dealing with blockages. In addition to baking soda and vinegar, you can use other natural solutions to keep your drains clear. Lemon juice and salt water are effective at breaking down soap scum and preventing clogs.
Avoid Harsh Chemical Drain Cleaner
While commercial drain cleaners can be effective, they can also damage your pipes and harm the environment. Stick to natural solutions or call a professional plumber for help with stubborn clogs.
Schedule Regular Inspections
Having your drains inspected regularly by a professional can catch potential issues before they become major problems. JJ&A Mechanical offers drain camera inspection services to help identify and resolve any issues in your plumbing system.
The Best Way to Keep Hair Out of Shower Drain Pipes
Ultimately, there isn’t a single “best” way to keep hair out of shower drain pipes. While there are many methods to keep hair out of your shower drain, combining several strategies will yield the best results. Using a hair catcher, brushing your hair before showering, and routine drain cleaning can work together to keep your pipes clear.
Professional Help for Stubborn Clogs
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, a hair clog can become too stubborn to handle on your own. When this happens, it’s time to call in the professionals. At JJ&A Mechanical, we specialize in drain cleaning in Vancouver, BC, and the surrounding areas. Our team is qualified to handle from minor clogs to major blockages, including hair drain clogs.
The Benefits of Regular Drain Maintenance
Regular drain maintenance can save you time, money, and frustration in the long run. By keeping your drains clear, you can avoid costly plumbing issues and enjoy a more pleasant shower experience. Here are some benefits of regular maintenance:
Prevents Water Damage
Clogged drains can lead to water backing up into your shower or bathroom, causing water damage. Maintenance helps prevent this issue and keeps your home safe.
Improves Water Flow
Clear drains mean better water flow, so you can enjoy your showers without standing in a pool of water.
Reduces Odors
Removing hair and other debris from your drains can eliminate unpleasant odors that can linger in your bathroom.
Schedule Your Vancouver Drain Cleaning Service Today!
Don’t let hair clogs ruin your relaxing shower experience. By learning how to prevent hair from clogging shower drain pipes and taking a few simple steps, you can enjoy a smooth-running shower every day. If you’re dealing with a stubborn clog or need professional help, JJ&A Mechanical is here for you.
We offer expert drain cleaning and camera inspection services to keep your plumbing in top shape. Contact us today to schedule your service!