How To Clean Gunk Out Of Your Shower Drain in Cumbria

Are you experiencing a slow draining shower or standing water? This may be caused by a buildup of gunk or hair in your shower drain. This can be a frustrating and unpleasant problem to deal with. Fortunately, Drainage Cumbria, a drain cleaning company in Cumbria, is here to help. In this article, we will go through different methods for cleaning gunk out of your shower drain, so you can enjoy a clear and functioning shower once again.

The Drain

Before we jump into cleaning methods, let's briefly discuss the drain itself. A shower drain is typically made up of a strainer or grate and a pipe that leads to the sewer system. When water flows through the grate or strainer, it enters the pipe and is carried away from your home. However, hair, soap scum, and other materials can build up in the strainer or grate and eventually clog the pipe. This can cause slow draining water, standing water, or even unpleasant odors.

Baking Soda and Vinegar Solution

One of the most common and effective ways to clean gunk out of your shower drain is using a baking soda and vinegar solution. Here is how to do it:

1. Pour cup of baking soda down the drain.
2. Pour cup of vinegar down the drain.
3. Cover the drain to contain the fizzing reaction that will occur.
4. Let the solution sit for about 30 minutes.
5. Pour hot or boiling water down the drain to flush out the solution and any loosened debris.

This solution is effective because the baking soda and vinegar have a chemical reaction that helps to break up tough gunk without the use of harmful chemicals.

Baking Soda and Salt Solution

Another solution that can work well to clean gunk out of your shower drain is a baking soda and salt solution. Here's how to do it:

1. Mix cup of baking soda and cup of salt in a bowl.
2. Pour the mixture down the drain.
3. Let it sit for about 15 minutes.
4. Pour hot or boiling water down the drain to flush out the solution and any loosened debris.

The salt in this solution acts as a mild abrasive to help scrub away gunk and buildup.

The Hair Method

If you suspect that hair is the culprit of the clog, there is a simple method you can use to remove it. Here's how to do it:

1. Put on rubber gloves to protect your hands.
2. Use a pair of pliers or tweezers to reach into the drain and pull out as much hair as possible.
3. Once you've removed as much hair as you can see, use one of the solutions mentioned above to dissolve any leftover gunk.

This method is especially effective for fixing immediately visible blockages caused by hair.

The Snake Method

If the gunk in your shower drain is particularly stubborn, you may need to use a plumbing snake. Here's how to do it:

1. Purchase a plumbing snake from a hardware store.
2. Insert the snake into the drain and turn the handle clockwise to push it further into the pipe.
3. Once you've reached the clog, turn the handle counter-clockwise to break up and remove the gunk.
4. Flush the drain with hot or boiling water to remove any remaining debris.

It's important to note that plumbing snakes can be potentially damaging to your pipes if not used correctly. If you're uncomfortable using one or don't have experience with plumbing, it's best to call in professionals like Drainage Cumbria to handle the issue.

Chemical Cleaners

It's important to use caution when using chemical drain cleaners. While they can be effective at dissolving gunk and buildup, they can also damage your pipes and negatively impact the environment. Additionally, some chemical cleaners can be harmful to your health if not used correctly.

If you do choose to use a chemical cleaner, make sure to follow the instructions carefully and wear protective gear like gloves and goggles.

Preventative Measures

While it's important to remove gunk from your shower drain, it's also important to take preventative measures to avoid future clogs. Here are some tips to keep your drain clear:

• Remove hair from the strainer or grate after every shower.
• Use a drain cover to catch hair and debris before it enters the pipe.
• Avoid pouring fats, oils, and grease down the drain.
• Run hot water down the drain after every use to help flush away buildup.

Conclusion

Cleaning gunk out of your shower drain may not be the most glamorous task, but it's an important one to keep your plumbing functioning correctly. Before attempting to tackle the issue on your own, consider calling in the professionals at Drainage Cumbria. Our team has the necessary tools and expertise to quickly and effectively resolve any drain cleaning issues you may be experiencing.

For more information, give us a call at 01228 734162 or visit our website at drainagecumbria.uk. Don't let a clogged drain ruin your day - let us help you get back to enjoying a clear and functioning shower.