How to Clean a Blocked Shower Drain the Right Way

Few things ruin a relaxing shower faster than standing in ankle-deep water because the drain won’t clear. A blocked shower or clogged drain doesn’t just slow down your morning routine, it can cause bad smells, damage to your pipes, and even flooding if left too long.

This blog will walk you through why shower drains get blocked, what DIY methods people often try, why they’re risky, and how professionals know exactly how to fix a blocked shower drain safely and effectively.

Why Shower Drains Get Blocked

Most clogged shower drains start small, a few strands of hair, some soap residue, or dirt washing down after a long day. Over time, that buildup narrows the drain opening, trapping more debris until water struggles to pass through.

Here are the most common culprits blocking the drain:

• Hair: The number one cause of a blocked shower. Hair binds with soap scum, creating a sticky mess that clings to your pipes.
• Soap and shampoo residue: Over time, products can harden inside PVC pipes, slowing water draining through the system.
• Body oils and grime: These form a slippery layer inside the pipe, trapping even more dirt.
• Foreign objects: Small items like razor covers, bottle caps, or jewellery can accidentally slide into the drain opening and cause an instant blockage.
• Hard water buildup: Minerals gradually restrict flow, especially in older plumbing systems.

When that happens, water doesn’t drain properly and can eventually stop moving altogether. If left too long, you’ll end up needing a full drain unblocking service instead of a quick clean.

Early Signs of a Clogged Shower Drain

Spotting a blocked shower drain early can save you from expensive plumbing repairs. Watch for:

• Slow drainage, when water down the drain takes too long.
• Standing water pooling at your feet during a shower.
• Gurgling noises when the shower drain starts to empty.
• Bad smells coming from the drain opening.
• Recurrent blockages, even after using home or DIY methods.

If you notice one or more of these signs, it’s time to act fast before the blockage worsens.

Common DIY Methods (and Why They Don’t Work)

When people look up how to clean a blocked shower drain or how to clear a blocked shower drain, they often find dozens of “quick fixes.” While these DIY ideas can help temporarily, most fail to clear deeper clogs, and some can even damage your pipes.

1. Pour Boiling Water

Pouring boiling water or a drain with hot water might melt away soap residue, but it rarely clears stubborn clogs. For older plumbing systems or PVC pipes, it can even cause warping or leaks if the water is too hot.

2. Vinegar and Baking Soda

Mixing a cup of baking soda with a cup of vinegar creates a foaming reaction that looks impressive but only clears light buildup. It doesn’t dissolve hair or compacted grime further down. You can flush the drain with hot water afterward, but deeper clogs will still be there.

3. Drain Snake or Wire Hook

A drain snake (plumber’s snake) or a bent wire can help pull up tangled hair near the top, but it won’t clear blockages deeper in the drain. If used carelessly, it can scratch or puncture pipes, leading to leaks or more serious plumbing damage.

4. Chemical Drain Cleaners

These promise quick results but often contain harsh ingredients that can corrode metal fittings and PVC pipes. Over time, they weaken your plumbing and harm the environment.

DIY fixes might make the water flow for a few days, but the blockage usually comes back stronger, and that’s when people realise they need a professional who truly knows how to fix blocked shower drain problems for good.

Professional Drain Cleaning: The Smarter Solution

Licensed plumbers know how to unclog a shower drain safely, efficiently, and in compliance with New Zealand’s plumbing standards. Their tools and training go far beyond what household methods can achieve.

When you call a professional, they’ll typically:

• Inspect the drain using cameras to pinpoint the blockage.
• Use hydro jetting or high-pressure water systems to clear debris and hair without harming the pipes.
• Apply mechanical drain snakes for deep cleaning and drain unblocking in complex pipe systems.
• Rinse and test the system to confirm the water down the drain flows smoothly.
• Identify risks early, such as cracks, corrosion, or misaligned pipes.

They don’t rely on guesswork, they use proven methods that protect your system from future damage. Plus, all professional work complies with the Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Act 2006, giving you peace of mind that the job is done safely and legally.

How to Prevent Future Shower Blockages

Once your shower drain is clean, prevention is the key to keeping it that way. Try these expert-approved tips:

• Use a drain catcher to stop hair and soap scum from entering the pipes.
• Once a week, pour hot water down the drain to wash away minor buildup.
• Avoid flushing debris, oils, or soap bits that can clog a shower drain.
• Every month, pour a cup of baking soda followed by a cup of vinegar, let it fizz for 10-15 minutes, then rinse with hot water.
• Book professional maintenance if your system is old or prone to blocked drains.

Taking small preventive steps saves you from major repairs later on.

Your Trusted Plumbing Experts for Clear, Healthy Drains

At Water Works, we’re not just plumbers, we’re your trusted partners for clear, efficient, and long-lasting plumbing. Our team of Registered Master Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers provides safe and effective solutions for everything from clogged shower drains to full drain unblocking and water system maintenance.

When you work with us, you get:

• Licensed professionals who meet New Zealand’s strict plumbing standards
• 24/7 emergency plumbing and drainage services
• Expert care for blocked drains, toilets, and full drainage systems
• Reliable solutions for both residential and commercial properties

Call us today on 09 884 4661 or book online to save $15. Don’t rely on risky DIY fixes. Trust Water Works, your local experts who know exactly how to fix and clear blocked shower drains the right way.