How to Unclog a Shower Drain Without Calling a Plumber

Is Your Shower Draining Slow? Here's What You Need to Know on how to Unclog a shower drain

Clogged shower drains are a nuisance—and in Green Bay homes, they’re all too common thanks to hard water, soap buildup, and long hair. But before you pick up the phone to call a plumber, there’s a good chance you can handle the fix yourself.

This expert guide walks you through proven ways to unclog a shower drain safely and effectively, using tools you probably already have.

Why Shower Drains Get Clogged in Green Bay

Local plumbers often see the same culprits over and over again:

• Hair: The #1 reason for slow shower drains.

• Soap scum: Especially from bar soaps, it combines with hair and sticks to pipes.

• Hard water minerals: Common in Green Bay, this buildup narrows your drainpipes over time.

• Small debris: Dirt, sand, and other gunk from work or yard time.

  
  

To prevent buildup in the first place, the Wisconsin DNR recommends regular maintenance and water softening solutions.

DIY Method 1: The Baking Soda + Vinegar Trick

This eco-friendly method is safe for all types of pipes.

What You’ll Need:

• 1/2 cup baking soda

• 1/2 cup white vinegar

• Boiling water

How to Do It:

1. Pour the baking soda down the drain.

2. Add the vinegar and immediately cover the drain with a rag or stopper.

3. Let it sit for 15–30 minutes.

4. Flush with a pot of boiling water.

   
   

Pro Tip: Use this once a month to keep your shower drain running smoothly.

DIY Method 2: Use a Drain Snake or Hair Removal Tool

For tougher clogs, mechanical tools work best.

• Zip-It Tool or Plastic Drain Snake: These can grab and pull hair out in seconds.

• Wire Hanger Hack: Straighten a hanger, bend one end into a hook, and fish the clog out.

  
  

Need a visual? Check out Roger Wakefield’s tutorial on unclogging hair-filled drains.

DIY Method 3: Plunger Power

Yes, it works for shower drains too!

Steps:

1. Add water to the shower basin if dry.

2. Seal the overflow drain with a wet rag.

3. Plunge with quick, strong motions for 30–60 seconds.

   
   

If the water drains afterward, you’ve successfully cleared the clog.

When DIY Doesn’t Cut It

If you’ve tried these methods and still have issues, it may be time for a deeper inspection. Frequent clogs could mean:

• A partial main line blockage

• Mineral buildup from hard water

• Pipe damage or misalignment (common in older homes)

  
  

In these cases, call a licensed drain cleaning professional for a video inspection and high-pressure hydro-jetting. It’s safer and more effective than chemical drain cleaners—which the EPA warns can damage plumbing and harm the environment.

Prevent Future Shower Clogs

Keep your shower draining smoothly with a few simple habits:

• Use a mesh drain catcher to trap hair and debris

• Switch to liquid body wash to reduce soap scum

• Rinse with hot water after every shower

• Clean the trap every 2–3 weeks

Need Help? Dive Deeper Into Drain Cleaning

If you’re ready to take your drain knowledge to the next level—or you want to understand when DIY crosses into professional territory—check out our expert guide:

Drain Cleaning: Expert Guide for Green Bay Homes. You’ll get a full breakdown of causes, prevention tips, and when it’s time to call a pro.