How To Clean A Shower Drain
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How To Clean A Shower Drain :20 Inspiring Tricks In 2025!

If you’re wondering how to clean a shower drain or deal with that sewer smell, you’re not alone!

I’ve been there! At first, I didn’t know where to start, but after testing a few tricks, I found solutions that really work.

Whether it’s using vinegar, baking soda, or DIY tools, I’ve got the perfect methods to keep your drain fresh and free-flowing.

Trust me, these simple and effective ways will save you time, money, and a lot of frustration.

Let’s jump into the best solutions I’ve personally tried and well-researched!

 

how to clean a shower drain that can’t be removed

Here are the simple 20 tricks to clean a shower drain that can’t be removed:

shower drain cleaning
By Wavehooks

1. The Drain Snake to the Rescue

I wasn’t sure what to expect the first time I used a drain snake, but wow! This little tool works wonders.

You insert it into the drain, twist it around, and pull out all the hair and grime.

It’s oddly satisfying and kind of gross! It’s a game-changer for tough-to-reach clogs.

 

2. The DIY Hook Trick

When I didn’t have a fancy tool, I made my own! A straightened wire hanger with a hook at the end worked wonders for pulling out the blockade.

It was a lifesaver when I couldn’t remove the drain cover. If you’re in a pinch, this is a simple, budget-friendly trick that delivers results.

 

3. Pouring Boiling Water

vinegar in the hot water
By Wavehooks

I used to underestimate boiling water, but it’s brilliant for breaking down soap scum and greasy buildup.

I boil a kettle, slowly pour it into the drain, and you can feel instant improvement.

Just be careful to pour gradually to avoid damaging your pipes if they’re PVC.

 

4. Wet/Dry Vacuum to clean a shower drain

When I got desperate, I pulled out my wet/dry vacuum and it worked better than I imagined!

Cover the nozzle tightly over the drain and turn it on. It sucks out all the debris hiding deep down.

Trust me, it is very easy as well as so satisfying seeing all the gunk disappear.

 

5. how to clean a shower drain with vinegar

white vinegar

Prepare a classic combination of vinegar and baking soda.

Firstly, pour baking soda into the drain, follow with vinegar, and watch it fizz!

I preferably let it sit for about 30 minutes before rinsing it with boiling water.

It’s such an easy way to tackle minor clogs and freshen the drain simultaneously.

Suggested Read: Why Does Malt Vinegar Smell Bad? Unmasking The Hidden Cause!

 

How to Clean a Shower Drain That Smells

Here are the ways to clean a shower drain that smells:

how to clean shower drain with smell

6. The Lemon and Salt Scrub

This one’s a favorite of mine because it smells amazing.

I squeeze fresh lemon juice into the drain, sprinkle in salt, and scrub the drain cover and edges.

After rinsing with warm water, the drain smells citrusy and clean. It’s a natural and fresh way to beat the stink.

 

7. Overnight Enzyme Treatment

For smells that won’t quit, enzyme cleaners work wonders. I pour it into the drain before bed and let it sit overnight.

The enzymes break down organic gunk that causes the smell.

The next morning, my bathroom smells fresh, and my drain is cleaner than ever.

Suggested Read: Why Does My House Smell Like Sewage: 10 Reasons To Address! 

 

8. Heated Vinegar to clean shower drain

apple cider vinegar

Heating vinegar before pouring it down the drain boosts its cleaning power.

This trick was a charm & can quite effectively show visible results in minutes.

The heat helps dissolve buildup and leaves the drain smelling neutral. Follow with hot water for an extra-clean finish.

 

9. Citrus Peel Boil to clean shower drain

Boil orange or lemon peels in water and pour the mixture down the drain.

I personally love this trick, as it leaves the whole bathroom smelling amazing!

It’s not something I do weekly, but it’s perfect for freshening up before guests come over.

Suggested Read: How To Make Your Bathroom Smell Like A Spa: 20+ ‘Scent’-Sational Ways

 

10. Use Drain Plug Seals To Clean Shower Drain

Using a drain plug or seal is a simple trick I’ve tried for rarely used showers.

It blocks sewer smells and keeps things fresh when the drain isn’t in use.

It’s a low-maintenance fix that really worked for me, if needed you can comment to me I will share the details!

 

11. Cleaning Tablets For Ease Clean

Drop a dissolvable cleaning tablet into the drain weekly. These are fantastic for tackling bacteria that cause odors.

I’ve started using these, and they’re a hassle-free way to maintain a fresh-smelling drain.

Suggested Read: How To Get Rid Of Old Home Smell: 10 Tricks That Actually Work!

 

how to clean shower drain clogged with hair

Here is how you can simply clean the shower drain clogged with hair:

shower drain blocked with hair

12. Tweezers with a Flashlight

Shining a flashlight into the drain and using long tweezers might seem tough, but it’s super effective.

I’ve done this when other methods didn’t work, and it’s surprisingly satisfying to see how much hair you can pull out!

 

13. Wire Hanger Hook To Clean A Shower Drain

Straighten a wire hanger and bend it into a small hook. Slide it into the drain and pull out any hair.

This is one of my go-to tricks because it’s cheap and always gets the job done.

 

14. Dish Soap Soak

dishwasher vs detergent
By wavehooks

Pour dishwashing detergent into the drain and let it sit for about 30 minutes before flushing with hot water.

It breaks down greasy clumps effectively. I’ve tried this method a few times, and it’s great for mild clogs.

Suggested Read: Can You Use Clothes Detergent To Wash Dishes: Safety Guide!

 

15. Enzymatic Cleaners

Enzymatic drain cleaners are fantastic for breaking down hair clogs without harsh chemicals.

I used one during a particularly bad clog, and it worked like a charm overnight. It’s eco-friendly too, which is a bonus!

 

How to Clean a Shower Drain With Vinegar

Here is how you can clean a shower drain with vinegar:

how to clean shower drain with the gloves

16. Hot Vinegar Flush

Heat vinegar until warm and pour it down the drain. Let it sit for 15 minutes, then rinse with water.

I use this regularly, it’s a simple and natural way to keep the drain clean and free-flowing.

 

17. Vinegar Ice Cubes

Freeze vinegar in an ice cube tray and drop the cubes into the drain.

As they melt, they scrub away grime and deodorize. I tried this for fun once, and it turned out to be incredibly effective!

 

18. Vinegar and Essential Oil

vinegar and dish soap

Combine vinegar with a few drops of citrus essential oil and pour it into the drain.

It cleans and leaves a refreshing scent. I love using this after deep cleaning, it’s like the cherry on top!

 

19. Vinegar and Dish Soap Mix

Mix equal parts vinegar and dish soap, pour it down the drain, and let it sit for 20 minutes.

It’s my favorite trick for cutting through greasy buildup.

 

20. Cloth-Soaked Vinegar

Soak a cloth in vinegar and place it over the drain opening. Leave it for an hour before flushing it with hot water.

It’s perfect for tackling surface grime, and I’ve used it a few times when the drain cover looked dull.

Suggested Read: Can I Add Vinegar To My Laundry For A Fresh Smell? Must Read.

 

How To Clean A Shower Drain: FAQs

drain in the shower cleaning

1. What’s the best method to clean a shower drain that can’t be removed?

A flexible drain brush works wonders! It can reach deep into the drain without requiring removal and effectively grabs hair and debris. Pair it with regular hot water flushes to keep the drain clear.

2. How can I prevent my shower drain from smelling?

Regular cleaning with vinegar, baking soda, or enzymatic cleaners helps neutralize odors. Using a drain plug when the shower isn’t in use can also prevent sewer smells from escaping.

3. What’s the easiest way to tackle hair clogs?

A simple wire hanger hook or a rotating drain snake can effectively pull out clumps of hair. For a chemical-free option, enzymatic cleaners are great for breaking down hair.

4. Can baking soda and vinegar really clean a shower drain?

Yes! When combined, they create a fizzing reaction that helps break down grime and deodorize the drain. It’s one of the most natural and cost-effective methods I’ve tried.

 

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