Introduction: The Hair-Clogged Drain Dilemma
A clogged drain is a common household problem that can cause significant inconvenience. One of the most notorious culprits is hair, which can accumulate over time and lead to serious blockages in your bathroom sink, shower or bathtub. This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide on how to unclog a drain of hair using various methods ranging from simple DIY solutions to more complex techniques that may require professional tools.
Understanding the Problem: How Does Hair Clog Drains?
Before we delve into how to unclog a drain, it’s essential first to understand why hair causes such stubborn blockages. When strands of hair go down the drain, they often get tangled together and form balls or clumps. These clumps then trap other debris like soap scum and dead skin cells, eventually forming a solid mass that obstructs water flow.
The Do-It-Yourself Approach: Unclogging Your Drain with Household Items
One way you can tackle this problem without calling in professionals is by using everyday household items.
Baking Soda and Vinegar
This method involves creating a mini chemical reaction inside your pipes that helps dissolve the clog:
1. Pour half a cup of baking soda into the blocked drain.
2. Follow it up with half a cup of vinegar.
3. Cover the opening of your drain for approximately 15-20 minutes.
4. Afterward, rinse with hot water.
Wire Hanger
A wire hanger can also be an effective tool:
1. Straighten out the hanger but leave one end curved (to hook onto hair).
2. Push it down into your blocked pipe until you reach resistance.
3a.Pull up slowly while twisting slightly; this should bring up some hair/debris.
4b.If not successful initially, repeat until you clear the blockage.
Using Specialized Tools: Plungers, Drain Snakes, and More
If household items don’t work, you might need to upgrade your arsenal.
Plunger
A plunger can be a handy tool for unclogging drains:
1. Block overflow outlets with a wet cloth.
2. Fill the sink or bathtub with enough water to cover the base of the plunger.
3. Place the plunger over the drain and pump vigorously.
4. Repeat until water drains normally.
Drain Snake
A drain snake (or plumber’s snake) is another effective tool:
1. Push it down into your blocked pipe until you reach resistance.
2. Twist and push simultaneously to break up clogs.
The Professional Route: When To Call A Plumber
If none of these methods work, it may be time to call in a professional plumber who has specialized tools and expertise that can effectively remove stubborn hair clogs without damaging your pipes.
Maintaining Your Drains: Preventing Future Hair Clogs
Prevention is always better than cure when it comes to hair-clogged drains:
– Regularly clean out your drain stoppers
– Consider installing hair catchers in your shower or bathtub
– Brush your hair before showering to minimize loose strands going down the drain
By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way towards maintaining clear and free-flowing drains in your home!
