How to Clean Hair Out of a Drain

According to the American Academy of Dermatologists, it's normal to lose anywhere from 50 to 100 strands of hair per day. If you have ever looked down while showering, it can seem like we lose even more than that. A drain stopper does a great job at catching a significant portion of those hair strands, but enough hair slips through the drains to slow drainage and even block it eventually. Regularly cleaning the drain stopper can do wonders, but you will have to clear the drain itself occasionally if you want to reduce the risk of clogs in the drain line. Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Tampa has some tips here. If you prefer professional drain cleaning by dedicated plumbers, then call Mr. Rooter Plumbing to schedule an appointment.

The Effective-But-Yucky Method

Grab a screwdriver, rubber gloves, a flashlight, some needle-nose pliers, and a trash bin. Put on your gloves and prepare to get dirty.

Begin by removing the drain stopper. You might be able to pry it off. If not, you may need your screwdriver. With the drain stopper out of the way, shine your flashlight into the opening and try to locate the clump of hair. Grab your needle-nose pliers and reach in to pluck the hairs out. Toss the strands into the trash bin. Once you have removed the hairs, run some hot water down the drain before replacing the stopper.

Use an Auger, or Drain Snake

If the clog is deeper down than the needle-nose pliers will let you reach, then grab a drain snake or fashion a makeshift one by unraveling a clothes hanger. Be sure to wrap and tape some clothe on one end of the hanger to avoid damaging the drains. Insert the drain snake into the drain, twisting as you push it in fully. Do the same when you pull it out. This should catch any hair caught in the drain.

The Easy Way

If you are not keen on getting dirty or pulling out the elbow grease, then this less-effective-but-simple method is for you. Gather some dish soap, a cup of baking soda, a cup of vinegar, and some hot water.
Begin by pouring some dish soap down the drain and chasing it with a cup of baking soda. Make sure the baking soda gets down in the drain. Follow it with a cup of vinegar. This will start a chemical reaction that causes the mixture to fizz. The baking soda and vinegar mixture should have broken up the hair.
After some time, the fizzing will stop. Heat some water to slowly pour down the drain. The water should not be boiling hot as this can damage the drains. This hot water should wash the gunk down the drain.

The Most Reliable Method

Clearing the drains is not the same as drain cleaning. If you want the drains thoroughly cleared, then consider a professional clogged drain cleaning. Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Tampa is happy to schedule a flexible appointment for you today. We are ready to take your call.