How To Unclog a Shower or Bathtub Drain Full of Hair

We’ve all been there — a “hairy situation” in your shower or bathtub where water refuses to drain, and you’re left standing in a mini-swamp. This situation is anything but pleasant, but don’t panic! The team at Dean’s Home Services is here to help you tackle that drain disaster with some simple DIY solutions — and of course, our professional assistance if those don’t do the trick!

Top 5 Ways To Unclog Your Drain

Hair clogs can be a nuisance, but there are several ways to send those tangles packing. Before you call in the professionals at Dean’s, try these tried-and-true methods to clear your drain clogged with hair.

1. Use a Store-Bought Drain Snake

Drain snakes are the MVP of DIY drain cleaning, and they’re relatively cheap. Simply insert the flexible tool into the drain, twist it around, and pull out all that hair and gunk. Just be sure to brace yourself — what you pull out might make you rethink your shampooing habits.

2. Baking Soda and Vinegar

Who knew your pantry could double as a drain-cleaning arsenal? Pour half a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by half a cup of vinegar. Let the fizzing magic happen for about 30 minutes, then flush it out with hot water. This eco-friendly combo can break down minor clogs and leave your drain smelling fresh.

3. Use a Plunger

Plungers aren’t just for toilets — they’re surprisingly effective at tackling shower and bathtub clogs too. Fill the tub with enough water to cover the plunger’s base, then give it a few hearty pumps. The suction can dislodge stubborn hair clogs and get things flowing again.

4. Pour Boiling Water Down the Drain

Sometimes, the simplest solutions are the best. Boil a kettle or pot of water and carefully pour it down the drain in stages. The heat can help dissolve soap scum and loosen hair clogs. Just be cautious with this method if you have PVC pipes, as excessive heat might cause damage.

5. Clean the Stopper

Often, hair clogs start right at the surface. Remove the drain stopper and give it a good cleaning — this is where hair loves to collect. If you’re lucky, your clog might not go deeper than the stopper itself.

When To Call a Professional

When battling a stubborn hair clog, you have to know when to throw in the towel. If none of the DIY methods above work, or if you notice recurring clogs or slow drains, it’s time to call in the pros. Dean’s team of drain-cleaning professionals in the Twin Cities area has the expertise to tackle even the gnarliest clogs and restore your drains to tiptop shape.

Tips for Keeping Your Drains Hair-Free

The best way to deal with hair clogs is to prevent them in the first place. A little proactive care can save you a lot of hassle, so try these tips:

• Use a drain cover: These inexpensive tools catch hair before it can go down the drain.
• Brush hair before showering: The longer your hair is, the more of a difference it can make to remove loose hair before showering or bathing. That way, less of it will end up in your pipes!
• Flush drains weekly: Pour boiling water down your drains weekly to clear minor buildup.
• Clean the stopper regularly: Don’t let hair accumulate — give your stopper a quick clean every week or two.

Call Dean’s for Expert Drain Cleaning Services

If clogs are a constant battle in your bathroom, it’s time to bring in reinforcements. Professional drain cleaning from Dean’s Home Services can help keep your pipes clear and your home running smoothly. With over 100 combined years of plumbing expertise, our outrageously professional team is ready to help homeowners across Minneapolis and St. Paul tackle even the toughest drain issues.

Contact Dean’s today to schedule drain cleaning in the Twin Cities area.