Our Service Area
All Service AreasHow to Unclog a Shower Drain
Family Owned & Serving Santa Cruz Since 1984
How to Unclog a Shower Drain
Family Owned & Serving Santa Cruz Since 1984
Flexible Financing Available Through GreenSky
Don’t Let Cost Stop You From Getting It Fixed
Plumbing problems don’t wait — and now, neither do you. We offer flexible payment plans so you can get the work done today without the financial stress.
Are you having issues with your shower or bathtub drain? Is the water pooling or draining more slowly than usual? Then you’ve come to the right place! There are several different methods you can try to unclog a shower drain or a bathtub drain. If you’re not entirely comfortable with any of them, give us a call at Rosenthal Plumbing! Our Santa Cruz drain cleaning service experts would be happy to do the unclogging for you. If you’d like to tackle the project yourself, though, read on to learn how to unclog a shower drain!
Get Drain Cleaning Help Now!Use Your Hand
Sometimes, it’s possible to simply reach down the drain, grab whatever’s causing the clog (usually hair) and pull it out. We definitely recommend putting on a pair of gloves before you do this as drains can be pretty nasty on the inside. If the clog is just barely out of reach, an unclogging tool or something like a screwdriver can help unclog a shower drain.
Try A Home Remedy
Sometimes, clogs are just too deep to grab. If that’s the issue you’re having, try dissolving it with some common household substances. Start by pouring some hot water down your clogged shower drain, followed by a cup of baking soda, and finish it off with a cup of vinegar. Let the concoction sit for about 10 minutes, then run some hot water down the drain for a few minutes more. Sometimes, this can unclog a bathtub drain fast!
Plunge it Out
Contrary to popular belief, plungers aren’t just for toilets; they work on all sorts of drains. Just be sure to get a good seal around the clogged drain, then start plunging away. After a few minutes, the clog can be moved around enough that you’re able to grab it and pull it out (see method 1 above) or that it flows down the drain when you run the water.
Get Your Shop Vac
If you have a shop vac, this can be a powerful way to remove a stubborn shower or bathtub clog. Set the vac to liquid vacuuming, place the hose over the top of the drain and then turn it on. It’s possible for the vac to produce enough suction to either bring up the clog or dislodge it enough that it can flow down the drain with some running water.
Try a Plumbing Snake
If you don’t already own a plumbing snake, renting one from your local hardware store is a fairly straightforward process and can help unclog your shower drain. Unless you’re familiar with how to operate one, however, we caution against this as a plumbing snake can get stuck in the drain, causing even more damage than that stubborn clog.
Clogged Drain Experts in Santa Cruz
If, after trying the methods above, you still can’t get your clogged shower drain or clogged bathroom drain unclogged, or you’re just hesitant to try it yourself, call us at Rosenthal Plumbing. Our Santa Cruz drain cleaning experts are standing by and are ready to get everything back to normal for you ASAP!
Get Drain Help Now!What causes shower drains to clog most often?
Hair is the most common culprit, as it binds together with soap scum and shampoo residue to create stubborn blockages. Hard-water minerals can also build up inside pipes over time, narrowing the drain opening. In some cases, small objects—like razor caps or jewelry—accidentally slip down the drain and worsen the clog. Regular cleaning and installing a drain cover can greatly reduce these issues.
When should I call a professional plumber instead of doing it myself?
DIY methods such as plunging, using a drain snake, or natural cleaners can clear many minor clogs.
However, you should call a licensed plumber if:
– Water backs up in multiple drains (a sign of a deeper main line problem).
– Clogs return frequently even after cleaning.
– There’s a foul sewage odor.
– You notice gurgling sounds or slow drainage throughout the house.
Professional plumbers have the tools to remove tough blockages safely and can inspect for damaged pipes or root intrusion.
Can using chemical drain cleaners damage my pipes?
Yes. Harsh chemical cleaners can generate heat that weakens PVC pipes, corrode metal pipes, and degrade seals inside your plumbing system. They can also create dangerous fumes. For a safer solution, try a mechanical approach like a drain snake or a natural mixture of baking soda and vinegar followed by hot water. If the clog persists, a professional plumber can clear the line without risking damage to your plumbing.
All Service Areas
2023 Neighborhood Fave.png)
4.9 Stars | 500+ Reviews