Hair clogs in the tub, shower, or bathroom sink drains can be a real nuisance. If you’ve ever wondered how to clean hair from the drain without resorting to drastic measures like avoiding showers, you’re in the right place.
Slow drains due to hair accumulation are a common issue, but the good news is there are simple steps you can take to remove hair clogs and keep your drains flowing freely. Let’s dive into some easy and effective methods to tackle this problem. And remember, if you need professional help, Clog Wizards is just a call away!
Key Takeaways
- Boiling water can help loosen hair clogs.
- Baking soda and vinegar create a powerful reaction to clear clogs.
- Tweezers or needle-nose pliers can remove visible hair.
- A drain snake can reach and remove deeper clogs.
- Removing the whole drain might be necessary for stubborn clogs.
- Preventive measures can help keep your drains clear.
How to Clean Hair From Drain
Getting rid of hair clogs doesn’t have to be a hassle. Here are six ways to clean hair from your drain effectively:
Use Boiling Water
Boiling water is a straightforward and effective method to clear minor hair clogs without direct contact. Here’s how:
- Boil a pot of water.
- Pour the boiling water down the drain using a funnel or pouring cup.
- Wait a few seconds and test the drain.
The hot water helps loosen the soap and grease that hold hair in place, making it easier to flush away. It’s a simple method, but it can be surprisingly effective for minor clogs.
Use Baking Soda & Vinegar Before Plunging
This method combines household items to create a powerful cleaning solution.
You’ll need dish soap, vinegar, baking soda, and boiling water:
- Squirt some dish soap into the drain.
- Add a cup of vinegar and a cup of baking soda.
- Wait for about 5 minutes for the chemical reaction.
- Pour boiling water into the drain.
- Use a cup plunger to clear any remaining hair.
The chemical reaction between the vinegar and baking soda helps break down the clog, and the boiling water washes it away. Repeat as necessary if the clog persists.
Pull the Hair Out with Tweezers or Needle-Nose Pliers
Manual removal is effective for visible hair clogs.
Gather a flashlight, tweezers, or needle-nose pliers:
- Remove the drain stopper (manually or with a screwdriver).
- Shine a flashlight into the drain.
- Use needle-nose pliers to pull out the hair.
- Wear gloves for hygiene.
- Run hot water to flush out the remaining hair.
This method allows you to physically remove the clog, which can be very satisfying. Just be careful not to push the hair further down the drain.
Use a Drain Snake
A drain snake is a handy tool for deeper clogs.
Here’s how to use it:
- Purchase a drain snake from a hardware store.
- Feed the snake into the drain until you feel resistance.
- Rotate the snake to break up the clog.
- Run water to check if the drain is clear.
- Repeat if necessary, feeding the snake deeper to ensure the clog is fully cleared.
The drain snake is particularly useful for stubborn clogs that are further down the drain. It scrapes the walls of the pipe, removing any built-up hair and debris.
Remove Your Whole Drain
As a last resort, you might need to remove the whole drain.
This is more involved but can be necessary for stubborn clogs:
- Sink Drain: Unscrew the p-trap (place a bucket underneath to catch water).
- Shower/Tub Drain: Use a plug wrench to remove the drain.
Always wear gloves for hygiene and call a professional if you’re uncomfortable with plumbing work. Removing the drain allows you to access and clean out the clog directly, which can be very effective for severe blockages.
Call a Professional
If DIY methods fail, it’s time to bring in the pros. Contact Clog Wizards for expert help with hair, soap scum, grease, food, and toilet paper clogs.
Avoid using liquid drain cleaners as they can be toxic and often ineffective. Professionals have the tools and expertise to handle even the most stubborn clogs.
How to Prevent Hair Clogs in Drain
The average person sheds 50-100 hairs daily. That’s potential for a lot of hair clogs. But there are a lot of ways to prevent these kind of messes. Let’s start with the simplest but most effective way…
Brush Hair Before Showering or Bathing
Brushing your hair before shampooing is highly effective in keeping loose hair out of the drain. Avoid shaving over the sink or in the shower. Always remove visible hair clumps from the shower floor or sink before they reach the drain. This simple habit can significantly reduce the amount of hair that goes down your drain.
Install Drain Hair Trap
An inexpensive hair catcher for the drain can work wonders. Place it over the drain to collect hair, then dispose of the hair in the trash. There are various brands and styles available to suit different drain types. A hair trap is a simple but effective way to catch hair before it becomes a problem.
Maintain Your Drains
Occasionally pour white vinegar and baking soda into your drains. Once the bubbling stops, rinse with hot water. This routine maintenance helps keep your drains clear and functioning well. It’s a natural and safe method that can prevent clogs from forming.
Don’t Pour Chemicals into Your Drains
Over-the-counter chemical solutions can corrode pipes over time. Avoid using chemical drain cleaners and opt for natural methods or professional services instead. Chemicals can also be harmful to the environment and may not be as effective as you think.
Run Water Through Your Drains
Fill your tubs and sinks with hot water, then drain them simultaneously and flush the toilets. This creates a forceful flush that can help prevent clogs. Repeat this periodically to keep your drains clear. It’s an easy way to maintain your plumbing system.
Clog Wizards Provides Drain Unclogging Services
If DIY methods don’t do the trick, or if you prefer not to handle it yourself, contact a professional drain cleaning service like Clog Wizards. We provide top-notch drain cleaning services, clearing drains like magic! From hair and soap scum to grease and food clogs, we’ve got you covered.
Final Thoughts
Dealing with hair clogs can be frustrating, but with the right methods, you can effectively remove and prevent them. Remember, if you’re dealing with stubborn clogs or need routine maintenance, contacting a professional plumber is always a good idea. For all your drain cleaning needs, Clog Wizards is here to help!
FAQs
How often should I clean my drains to prevent hair clogs?
Regular maintenance, like using a drain hair trap and periodically flushing your drains with hot water and vinegar, can help keep clogs at bay. A monthly routine should be sufficient for most households.
Are chemical drain cleaners safe for my pipes?
Chemical drain cleaners can be harsh on your pipes and cause corrosion over time. Natural methods like baking soda and vinegar are safer and often just as effective.
What should I do if my drain is still clogged after trying these methods?
If DIY methods fail, it’s best to call a professional plumber. Persistent clogs might require specialized tools and expertise to remove.
Can I use a wire hanger as a makeshift drain snake?
While a wire hanger can work in a pinch, it’s not as effective as a proper drain snake. A drain snake is designed to reach and remove deeper clogs without damaging your pipes.
How do I remove the drain stopper to clean hair clogs?
Most drain stoppers can be removed by unscrewing them or lifting them out manually. If you’re unsure how to remove your specific drain stopper, check the manufacturer’s instructions or consult a professional.
Is it normal for hair to clog my drains frequently?
Frequent hair clogs can be a sign of a larger issue, like a buildup of soap scum or grease. Regular maintenance and preventive measures can help reduce the frequency of clogs.
By following these tips and methods, you can keep your drains clear and functioning smoothly. And if you ever need a hand, Clog Wizards is ready to assist with all your drain cleaning needs!