How To Clean Shower Tray Drain in Cumbria

Are you struggling with a blocked shower tray drain in Cumbria? Don't worry; Drainage Cumbria is here to help you. We are a reliable and trusted drain cleaning company in Cumbria, serving domestic and commercial clients for years. In this guide, we provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to clean your shower tray drain, ensuring your bathroom is clean and hygienic.

The Shower Tray

Before we proceed to the cleaning process, let us define what a shower tray is. A shower tray is a shallow, tray-like structure that serves as the base of your shower. It is situated at the bottom of the shower and designed to prevent water from escaping. However, with frequent use, the shower tray can accumulate dirt, debris, and soap scum, leading to a blocked or slow-draining drain.

Getting Started

If you notice water isn't draining away as fast as it should, or you see water that's standing in the shower tray, that can be a clear sign you have a blocked drain. You need to act immediately before the problem worsens. But keep in mind, you should avoid touching the drain with your bare hands. Instead, use a snake or any non-toxic drain cleaner.

Accessible Surface

If the blockage is visible near the surface, the first step is to remove any visible debris. Clear away hair, soap scum, and other materials that might be blocking the drain. Get a sponge to soak up any excess water. Once the surface is clear and dry, proceed to the cleaning process.

Making Sure Your Shower Is Ventilated

Before commencing cleaning, it's essential to ensure the bathroom is adequately ventilated. This prevents the build-up of fumes from cleaning chemicals or vinegar. Open the bathroom window or turn on the extractor fan to help remove any unpleasant odors or harsh chemicals from the air.

Method 1 - The 2 Hour Lemon Juice Method

One of the effective ways to unclog your shower drain is using lemon juice. Here is how to go about it:

Step 1 - Pour a kettle full of boiling water into the drain.

Step 2 - Take one or two lemons and squeeze the juice into the drain. You may also use a leftover lemon that has been cut in half.

Step 3 - Allow the lemon juice to sit in the drain for at least two hours.

Step 4 - Rinse using hot water. The heat helps in dissolving any accumulations of soap scum and grime.

If there are any affected areas, such as around the drain or in the tray, you can use a lemon half to scrub and leave the citrusy aroma behind.

Tip: Use a dry towel to absorb any water that may have remained in the tray before pouring the boiling water. If the tray is not entirely dry, the heat from the water may cause cracking or discoloration on the surface.

Method 2 - The Vinegar and Baking Soda Method

Another way to unclog a shower drain is using baking soda and vinegar.

Step 1 - Pour half a cup of baking soda into the shower tray drain.

Step 2 - Pour a cup of white vinegar into the drain over the baking soda.

Step 3 - Once it starts fizzing, leave it for 30 minutes to let the mixture eat away any buildup.

Step 4 - Using a bottle brush, remove any clogging that appears visible.

Step 5 - Rinse using hot water. You can use the shower handset, but ensure you drain clean water away from the shower tray.

Tip: Remember that the mixture of vinegar and baking soda will produce a strong fizzing reaction. This mixture should be used quickly before the chemical reaction subsides.

The Hour Long Liquid Drain Cleaner

If you've already tried the previous two methods without success, there's another solution to unclog the shower tray drain.

Step 1 - Pour some liquid drain cleaner into the shower tray drain.

Step 2 - Wait for up to an hour, depending on the product you're using.

Step 3 - Turn on the shower and rinse the drain clean. If possible, use a sponge to clean any remaining dirt or scum.

Tip: Remember to wear gloves when using liquid drain cleaners. These cleaners can be very acidic and can cause skin irritation or worse.

Dry the Shower Tray

Once you've successfully cleaned the shower tray drain, the next crucial step is to dry the shower tray. Ensure that there aren't any leftover water droplets, which can lead to mold and mildew growth. Use a dry towel or a brush to remove any leftover dirt or debris, giving your shower tray a final rinse.

Conclusion

Cleaning a shower tray drain in Cumbria may seem like a daunting task, but it isn't that difficult. By following the above steps, you can unclog your shower tray drain with ease. Remember that regular maintenance and cleaning can help prevent clogged drains. If your shower drain requires professional cleaning, feel free to contact Drainage Cumbria at 01228 734162 or [email protected]. We are North West England's leading drain cleaning company, always ready to offer our clients reliable and cost-effective solutions. Visit our website drainagecumbria.uk to get a quote.