If you’ve ever faced the challenge of a slow-draining shower or sink and suspected hair to be the culprit, you’re definitely not the only one! Hair clogs are an incredibly common household plumbing issue, especially if you have long or thick hair! These clogs occur when hair accumulates over time, often combining with soap scum and other debris, leading to a blockage. So if you’re certain that your locks have caused a block, what’s the best way to dissolve them and get your plumbing draining quickly again? Let’s take a look.
When it comes to dissolving hair in drains, chemical drain cleaners can be a go-to solution: these cleaners contain strong chemicals like sodium hydroxide or sulfuric acid, which can break down hair and other organic matter. However, it's crucial to use them with caution; overuse or improper handling can damage your pipes and pose health risks, especially if your pipes are old and you’re not wearing protective gear. Always follow the instructions on the label and use these products in a well-ventilated area to prevent any issues.
If you prefer a more environmentally friendly approach, there are several home remedies you can try. One popular method is using a mixture of baking soda and vinegar: pour half a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by half a cup of vinegar. Cover the drain and let the mixture work for an hour, then flush with hot water. This combination can help break down minor hair clogs and is safer for your pipes, but do note that it might not work as well on more stubborn clogs.
If drain cleaners aren’t working, a plunger can sometimes dislodge hair clogs, provided you’re willing to put in a healthy bit of elbow grease. The key is to create a good seal and use vigorous plunging action to loosen the blockage - if successful, your plughole will start draining smoothly again once you release the plunger.
Drain snakes and augers are more direct methods of removing hair clogs, albeit slightly more complex. These tools can reach deeper into the drain, and work by hooking onto the hair (which you then pull out). These tools can be particularly effective for more significant clogs that chemical or natural solutions can't address, but you can end up damaging your pipes if you don’t use these correctly.
As we always say over here on our blog, it’s always more cost-effective to prevent hair build-up in the first place. Here’s how you can do so:
One of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent hair blockages is by using drain strainers: these devices fit over your shower and sink drains, catching hair and other debris before they enter your plumbing.
Make it a habit to clean your drains regularly: this doesn't necessarily mean using harsh chemicals; even flushing your drains with hot water weekly can help. For a more thorough cleaning, a monthly flush with a baking soda and vinegar solution can help keep your drains clear.
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, a hair clog can be stubborn or indicate a deeper issue in your plumbing. If you’ve tried multiple methods without success, or if clogs are becoming a recurring and irritating problem in your household, it’s probably a good idea to call in professionals. For those with a blocked drain in London dealing with persistent or complex hair clogs, our team at FS Drainage is equipped with the tools and expertise to efficiently tackle any blocked drain, ensuring your plumbing system runs smoothly again in no time.
Ideally, check and clean your drain strainers at least once a week. If you have a lot of hair shedding, consider doing this more frequently to prevent buildup.
Longer hair strands tend to cause blockages more frequently than shorter hair, as they can more easily tangle and trap other debris. However, any hair type can contribute to clogs if not managed properly.
Yes, heavy or oily hair products can exacerbate clogs by causing hair to clump together and stick to the inside of pipes. Opt for lighter hair care products and rinse thoroughly after use.
Ultimately, dealing with hair clogs in drains can be a nuisance, but with the right approach, it's just like any other aspect of household maintenance. To keep your plumbing running smoothly, we’d recommend implementing preventive measures first, like using drain strainers and educating household members, which can significantly reduce the frequency and severity of these blockages. And when clogs do occur, a range of solutions from natural remedies to mechanical tools - as well as expert help - is at your disposal.
