5 Easy Ways To Unblock a Clogged Shower Drain

“Why Does My Shower Drain Keep Getting Blocked?”

There’s nothing more frustrating than stepping into the shower, only to find water pooling around your ankles. A clogged shower drain turns a peaceful morning routine into a plumbing nightmare — complete with slow drainage, unpleasant smells, and rising water levels. These blockages are most often caused by a build-up of hair, soap scum, and debris, while hard water deposits can also contribute.

Whether you’re facing a one-off clog or recurring drain problems, fast action is key. At 247 Plumbelec Emergency Services, we’ve compiled 5 simple and cost-effective ways to unclog a blocked shower drain — plus tips to help prevent it from happening again.

1. Pour Boiling Water Down the Drain (Seriously)

It might sound too simple to be true, but boiling water can be surprisingly effective at loosening light soap and grease-based blockages.

Slowly pour boiling water directly into the drain, ideally in two or three stages. This allows the heat to break down the gunk inside. It’s safest for modern PVC or metal pipes — older pipe systems may require caution, using hot (not boiling) water instead.

⚠️ Warning: If you’ve recently used chemical cleaners, skip this method to avoid harmful fumes.

2. Try a DIY Natural Cleaner with Baking Soda and Vinegar

Looking for an eco-friendly alternative to harsh chemicals? A classic mix of baking soda and white vinegar can get the job done naturally.

– Pour ½ cup of baking soda into the drain
– Follow with 1 cup of white vinegar
– Cover the drain and let it sit for 30 minutes
– Rinse with hot water (boiling if your pipes are suitable)

This reaction dissolves minor hair and soap clogs while being gentler on both your plumbing and the planet.

3. Use DIY Tools – The Homeowner’s Toolkit

If you’re dealing with a more stubborn blockage, it’s time to get hands-on. Here’s a simple toolkit to try before calling a professional:

– Plunger: Use petroleum jelly on the rim for a tight seal and strong suction.
– Wire coat hanger: Unwind it and fish out the blockage from beneath the drain cover.
– Drain snake: Perfect for reaching deep clogs beyond arm’s length.
– Rubber gloves: Trust us — you’ll want them.
– Remove the drain cover: Most twist off easily to provide access for manual cleaning.

4. Be Cautious with Commercial Drain Cleaners

Chemical drain cleaners are a fast but risky fix. While they can dissolve soap and hair blockages, they often damage older or PVC pipes and are harmful to the environment when overused.

Always follow the product instructions, avoid mixing chemicals, and never combine with boiling water — the fumes can be toxic.

If the blockage persists even after using a drain cleaner, it may be time to call a licensed expert.

5. When It’s Time, Call a Licensed Plumber in Melbourne

If nothing’s worked and the drain is still backing up, it’s time to bring in the pros. Some clogs are too deep or complex for DIY methods.

At 247 Plumbelec, our licensed Melbourne plumbers use specialist tools and advanced diagnostic techniques to get your drains flowing again — safely, efficiently, and without damaging your system.