A slow-draining shower is one of those household annoyances that’s easy to ignore—until you find yourself standing in several inches of water every morning. If your shower drain has seen better days, a little routine cleaning can make a huge difference. Here’s how to clean your shower drain and keep it running smoothly.
Step 1: Remove Hair and Debris
Hair and soap scum are the biggest culprits when it comes to clogged shower drains. Start by removing the drain cover and using a drain snake or even a bent wire hanger to pull out any visible hair or gunk. It’s not glamorous, but it’s often the quickest fix.
Step 2: Flush the Drain Naturally
Instead of harsh chemicals, try a simple and safe homemade cleaner. Pour half a cup of baking soda into the drain, followed by half a cup of vinegar. Let the mixture fizz for about 15–20 minutes, then flush with a pot of hot (not boiling) water. This combination helps break down buildup and keeps your pipes fresh.
Pro tip: You can do this once a month as part of your regular cleaning routine to prevent clogs before they start.
Step 3: Address Odors and Buildup
If your shower drain smells bad, it might not just be soap residue—it could be a sign of something more serious. As Blue Moon Plumbing explains in their blog, “a sewage-like odor can occur when the P-trap under your shower dries out or if bacteria begin to grow in the drain line.”
Keeping your drain clean and using it regularly helps prevent odors from returning. But if the smell persists, there may be a deeper issue with your plumbing system that requires professional attention.
Step 4: Maintain Your Drain Regularly
After cleaning, try using a hair catcher or mesh screen to trap debris before it enters the drain. Regular maintenance takes just a few minutes a week and can save you from costly plumbing repairs later.
When to Call the Professionals
If you’ve tried all the above steps and your drain is still sluggish—or that unpleasant smell keeps coming back—it’s time to bring in the experts.
Need help with a stubborn drain or recurring odor? Blue Moon Plumbing, your trusted Dallas-Fort Worth plumbing company, offers professional drain cleaning and inspection services to get your shower working like new. Their team uses safe, effective methods to clear even the toughest clogs and ensure your plumbing system is running smoothly.
