Written on: July 27, 2026
There are few things more frustrating than stepping into the shower only to end up standing in several inches of soapy water. Fortunately, a slow or clogged shower drain is one of the most common plumbing problems, and often one of the easiest to fix.
Before you reach for the phone, try a few simple fixes. Many shower-drain clogs are caused by a combination of hair, soap scum, and shampoo or conditioner residue that builds up over time. With a little patience and a few basic tools, you may be able to get the water flowing again yourself.
Begin by removing the drain cover. Depending on the style, you may need a screwdriver. Wearing rubber gloves, use a finger or two to pull out any visible hair or debris. You may be surprised by how much gunk collects just behind the drain cover.
Once you’ve cleared away what you can see or feel, run hot water for a minute or two. If the drain empties normally, you’re done. If it’s still slow, move on to the next step.
Sometimes the simplest solution works best. Carefully pour very hot, not necessarily boiling, water down the drain in stages, allowing it to work through the pipe before adding more.
This can help dissolve soap residue and loosen minor buildup. While it isn’t likely to clear a solid hair clog deeper in the drain, it’s a quick and easy first step that often improves drainage.
For a chemical-free approach, pour about ½ cup of baking soda into the drain, followed by 1 cup of white vinegar. The mixture will fizz as it works to break down residue.
Let it sit for 15 to 20 minutes, then flush the drain with hot water. This method works well on moderate buildup but may not be enough if the clog consists mostly of tangled hair.
If the clog is still hanging on, it’s time to use a plastic drain snake or hair-removal tool. Both are inexpensive tools designed to reach farther into the pipe and grab hair that sits beyond your reach.
Insert the tool slowly. If you’re using a drain snake, twist gently as you work it into the drain before pulling it back out. If you’re using a barbed plastic hair remover, insert it straight down and pull it out slowly without twisting. Be prepared. It may bring up more debris than you expected.
Finish by rinsing the drain with hot water to see if the clog has cleared.
Chemical drain cleaners can sometimes break through stubborn clogs, but frequent use can damage certain types of plumbing, especially in older homes. They should be a last resort.
If you decide to use one, follow the manufacturer’s directions carefully and never mix different drain-cleaning products. The products can be hazardous if handled improperly.
If you’ve tried these DIY solutions and the drain is still slow or blocked, it’s time to bring in a professional. You should also call if you notice:
The licensed plumbers at Swezey have specialized equipment like motorized drain augers and inspection cameras to help locate and safely remove stubborn blockages. We can also identify underlying plumbing problems before they become more expensive repairs.
Most clogs are fairly easy to handle, and drain cleaning doesn’t have to be complicated. A few simple habits can help prevent shower clogs from returning. An inexpensive hair-catching drain cover is one of the easiest and most effective ways to stop hair before it enters your plumbing. Periodically flushing the drain with very hot water can also help reduce soap buildup.
But when a blockage goes beyond a simple fix, bring in the licensed professionals at Swezey. We’ll treat your home with care, resolve the problem correctly the first time, and leave you with total peace of mind. Give us a call today, and keep our number on the fridge!