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Steps
1
Put on rubber gloves and remove the shower drain cover. Depending on the model, you may need to use a screwdriver to unscrew the cover or twist the top counterclockwise using pliers.
2
Inspect the drain for visible hair and debris. Use a small hook made from a coat hanger or a flexible plastic hair clog tool to fish out clumps of hair and soap scum from just below the stopper.
3
If the drain is still slow, treat the line with a natural cleaning solution. Pour one cup of baking soda into the drain, followed by one cup of white vinegar. Cover the drain and let the mixture sit for 15 minutes.
4
Flush the drain with hot water to clear out the loosened grime. If you have metal pipes, you can use boiling water; if you have PVC, use only hot water from the tap.
5
For deeper clogs, insert a drain snake or auger into the pipe. Feed the cable down until you encounter resistance, then rotate the handle to break through or hook the obstruction and pull it out.
6
Reinstall the drain cover and run the water on full pressure for a minute to verify that the water is flowing freely and that there are no remaining blockages.
7
If the clog persists after attempting a chemical flush, physical extraction with a snake, and plunging, call a professional plumber to investigate potential issues deeper in the system.
Pro Tips
Install a hair catcher over the drain to prevent future clogs.
Regularly flush the drain every couple of months with baking soda and vinegar to prevent buildup.