Unclog Shower Drain

Tools

• Screwdriver
• Needle-nose pliers
• Plastic drain snake or bent wire hanger
• Gloves

Materials

• Hot water

Safety

• Wear gloves when removing hair and debris.
• Do not use excessive force when removing the cover or snaking the drain.
• Avoid mixing or following chemical drain cleaners with manual cleaning.
• Use caution with hot water to avoid burns.
• Stop and call a plumber if water backs up elsewhere or you notice a sewage smell.

Steps

1. Step 1: Remove the drain cover or stopper

   • Put on gloves.
   • Remove the shower drain cover or lift out the stopper.
   • If screws hold the cover in place, use a screwdriver and keep the screws in a safe spot.

   Check: The drain opening is fully accessible. · The cover, stopper, and screws are set aside safely.

2. Step 2: Pull out visible hair and debris

   • Use gloved fingers or needle-nose pliers to remove any hair and debris near the top of the drain.
   • Place the debris directly into the trash so it does not fall back into the drain.

   Check: Visible hair and buildup at the drain opening have been removed. · The opening looks clearer than before.

3. Step 3: Clear deeper clog buildup

   • Insert a plastic drain snake or a small bent wire hanger into the drain.
   • Gently twist and pull upward to catch hair clogs.
   • Repeat until you stop pulling out debris.

   Check: Less debris comes out with each pass. · The tool moves more freely in the drain.

4. Step 4: Flush the drain

   • Run hot water into the drain for about 1 to 2 minutes.
   • Watch how quickly the water disappears.

   Check: Water drains faster than before. · Water is not pooling around the drain opening.

5. Step 5: Clean and reassemble

   • Wipe off the stopper and drain cover before putting them back.
   • Reinstall the stopper or cover and tighten screws only until snug.
   • Test the drain again with running water.

   Check: The cover or stopper is secure and aligned properly. · The shower drains normally during the final test.