Why Is My Shower Not Draining Properly?
Why Your Shower Drain Is Slow (and How to Fix It)
A slow-draining shower can be frustrating and messy, often leaving water pooling around your feet. If ignored, it can lead to bad odours, plumbing damage, and even mould growth. The good news? Most shower drainage problems can be easily fixed with simple solutions.
Here’s what might be causing your clogged or slow-draining shower and how to get it flowing again.
1. Common Reasons Your Shower Isn’t Draining Properly
🚿 Why is your shower draining slowly?
✔ Hair buildup – The most common cause, as hair sticks to soap scum and blocks the drain.
✔ Soap scum and product residue – Thick shampoo, conditioner, and body wash can build up over time.
✔ Hard water deposits – Mineral buildup from hard water can narrow pipes.
✔ Foreign objects – Small items (e.g., razor caps, jewellery, or kids' toys) accidentally fall into the drain.
✔ Blocked or damaged pipes – If water is backing up into other drains, there may be a deeper plumbing issue.
💡 Tip: Regular cleaning and using a drain cover can help prevent many of these issues.
2. DIY Fixes for a Slow or Clogged Shower Drain
Before calling a plumber, try these quick and effective DIY fixes:
🛠 Method 1: Remove Hair & Debris from the Drain
✔ Take off the drain cover and remove visible hair or debris.
✔ Use a drain snake or wire hanger to pull out any clogs.
✔ Rinse with hot water to flush out remaining residue.
💡 Tip: If you don’t have a drain snake, a straightened wire hanger with a hooked end works well.
🛠 Method 2: Baking Soda & Vinegar (Natural Drain Cleaner)
✔ Pour ½ cup of baking soda into the drain.
✔ Follow with 1 cup of white vinegar and let it fizz for 10–15 minutes.
✔ Flush with hot water to clear out loosened grime.
💡 Tip: This method is safe for most plumbing systems and helps break down grease and soap buildup.
🛠 Method 3: Plunge the Drain
✔ Fill the shower with a few centimetres of water to create suction.
✔ Use a plunger over the drain and push up and down 10–15 times.
✔ Remove the plunger and check if water flows freely.
💡 Tip: This method works best if the clog is not too deep in the pipes.
3. When to Call a Plumber
If DIY fixes don’t solve the issue, the clog may be too deep or severe for at-home solutions.
📞 Call a plumber if you notice:
✔ Water backing up into other drains – Could indicate a main line blockage.
✔ Persistent slow draining – If the problem returns after cleaning, it may be a pipe issue.
✔ Unpleasant smells – Sewer-like odours may signal a deeper problem.
✔ Gurgling noises – Air trapped in the pipes can be a sign of a bigger blockage.
💡 Tip: If multiple drains in your home are slow, the issue is likely in your main plumbing system.
4. How to Prevent Future Shower Drain Clogs
🚿 Keep your shower drain clear with these simple tips:
✔ Use a drain cover to catch hair and debris.
✔ Flush your drain with hot water weekly to prevent buildup.
✔ Avoid pouring oily or thick products down the drain.
✔ Clean your drain with baking soda & vinegar once a month.
💡 Tip: If your home has hard water, consider installing a water softener to prevent mineral buildup in pipes.
Final Thoughts: A Free-Flowing Shower Drain
A slow-draining shower is usually caused by hair, soap scum, or debris buildup, but with regular maintenance, you can keep your drain clear and running smoothly. If a clog won’t budge, it’s best to call a plumber before it worsens.
At Custom Bathroom Creations, we recommend routine drain care to prevent plumbing problems and keep your bathroom in perfect working order!
Need help with a persistent drain issue? Contact us today!