How do I prevent hair from clogging my shower drain?

Hair clogs are one of the most common shower drain problems, but they're easily preventable with the right approach and regular maintenance.

The most effective prevention method is installing a drain strainer or hair catcher over your shower drain. These inexpensive devices (typically $5-15 at hardware stores) sit on top of the drain and catch hair before it goes down the pipes. Look for ones with fine mesh or small holes that won't impede water flow but will trap even fine hair. Clean the strainer after each shower by removing the collected hair and rinsing it off.

Regular drain maintenance is equally important for long-term prevention. Once a week, pour a pot of boiling water down the drain to help dissolve soap residue and flush away small hair particles that might have gotten through. You can also use a simple mixture of baking soda and vinegar monthly - pour half a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by half a cup of white vinegar, let it sit for 15 minutes, then flush with hot water.

In Ottawa's older homes, shower drains often have additional challenges due to aging pipes and mineral buildup from our hard water. If you notice water draining slowly despite using a hair catcher, it may indicate buildup in the pipes that requires professional attention. Never use chemical drain cleaners regularly, as they can damage pipes over time, especially in older Ottawa homes with original plumbing.

Brush your hair before showering to remove loose strands, and consider rinsing the hair catcher with cold water first if you have long hair - this helps hair stick to the strainer rather than sliding through. If you're already dealing with slow drainage or suspect a hair clog has formed, it's best to have it professionally cleared before it becomes a complete blockage that could cause water damage.

For persistent drainage issues or if you're experiencing frequent clogs despite prevention efforts, Ottawa Pro Plumbing can inspect your drain line and provide solutions tailored to your home's plumbing system.

---

Find a Plumbing Contractor

Ottawa Plumbing Pro connects you with experienced contractors through the https://justynrookcontracting.com:

• Homeupgraders ✓
• Double-A-Plumbing ✓
• Humble Homes - property maintenance ✓