Dealing with a hair clog is a common problem most homeowners face in bathroom sinks and showers. The buildup of hair in your drain slows down the water flow and can also cause unpleasant odors. In this article, we will guide you on how to get hair out of a sink drain and prevent hair from clogging your drains in the future.
Why is the Drain Clogged?
The first step in unclogging your sink drain is to identify the culprit. Hair is the most common cause of clogged sink drains. As you wash your hair, it falls out, gathers, and builds up in the pipes. Over time, this hair becomes tangled, creating a hair clog that leads to slow draining water. To prevent hair from clogging your drains, remove it before it builds up into a clump.
Prevent Hair from Clogging Drains
One way to prevent hair from clogging your drains is to install a drain hair catcher. A hair catcher is a small mesh screen that fits over the drain opening and catches any hair before it enters the drainpipe. You can find these at any hardware store; they are easy to install. Additionally, you should dispose of hair correctly, especially after giving yourself a haircut or shaving. Instead of washing hair down the sink, try to throw it in the trashcan.
Identify the Culprit
If the water in your sink is draining slowly, shine a flashlight into the drain to see if there is hair buildup. If there is hair, it’s time to remove it, and if there isn’t, you might have a more stubborn clog. A clogged bathroom sink drain can occur due to several factors, such as soap scum, dirt, and other debris. On the other hand, shower drains can clog due to a combination of soap residue and hair.
How to Remove the Drain Stopper
Removing the drain stopper is the first step in removing hair from your drains. Depending on your sink type, the drain stopper can be removed by unscrewing or lifting it. If you have a pop-up drain stopper, remove the pivot rod that connects the stopper to the drainpipe. Once the stopper is removed, you can reach the hair trapped in the drain.
DIY Remedies to Unclog the Drain
If you don’t want to use chemical drain cleaners, you can use several DIY remedies to unclog your sink drain. Here are a few:
Baking Soda and Vinegar
Baking Soda and Vinegar is the best way to remove hair from your drain without using harmful chemicals. Start by pouring a cup of baking soda into the drain, and then pour a cup of vinegar. As soon as the vinegar and baking soda combine, they create a chemical reaction that will start fizzing and cleaning your drain. After a few minutes, pour hot water into the drain to flush out the hair clogs.
Use a Zip-It Tool
You can use a zip-it tool if you can’t reach the hair buildup with your fingers. A zip-it tool is a long, thin, plastic strip with teeth that can break up hair clogs. Insert the tool into the drain and move it up and down to loosen the hair. Pull the tool out, and the hair will come with it.
Flush Your Drain
Flushing your drain is an easy way to remove hair from your drain. Boil a pot of water and pour it down the drain. The hot water will help to loosen the hair and other debris stuck in the drain. A plunger can also be used to create suction and dislodge the hair clumps.
When to Call a Professional
If none of the DIY remedies work, it may be time to call a professional. Here are some signs that indicate it’s time to bring in a professional plumber:
The Drain Cleaner Didn’t Work
If you have already tried using a chemical drain cleaner, and the hair is still stuck, it’s time to call in a plumber. Chemical drain cleaners can harm your pipes and cause further damage if used continuously.
You Don’t Have the Right Tools
If you don’t have the right tools such as a drain snake, needle-nose pliers, or hanger, it’s best to call in a plumber. Trying to remove the hair clog with the wrong tools can cause more damage and lead to costly repairs.
The Clog is Beyond Your Reach
If the hair clog is too deep in the pipe and beyond your reach, it’s time to call a plumber. Plumbers have specialized tools that can reach deep into the pipes and remove stubborn hair clogs.
Q: What is the best way to get hair out of a sink drain?
A: One of the most effective ways to get hair out of a sink drain is to use a combination of baking soda and vinegar. Pour a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by a cup of vinegar. Let it sit for about 30 minutes, then flush it with hot water.
Q: What causes a hair clog in the sink drain?
A: Hair clogs in sink drains are caused by clumps of hair that get caught in the drain and build up over time.
Q: How can I prevent hair from clogging my drains?
A: One way to prevent hair from clogging your drains is to use a drain guard or stopper that catches hair before it goes down the drain. Another way is to regularly clean your drains with baking soda and vinegar.
Q: How can I remove the drain stopper to get the hair out?
A: The method for removing a drain stopper will vary depending on the type of drain you have. Try looking for specific instructions online or hire a plumber to remove the stopper and clean the drain.
Q: Can I dissolve hair in the drain?
A: Yes, there are products available that can dissolve hair in the drain, such as liquid drain cleaners. However, these products can be harsh and may damage your pipes if used incorrectly.
Q: Is it safe to use a zip-it tool to clear hair from the drain?
A: Yes, a zip-it tool is a safe and effective tool for clearing hair from a drain. However, it is important to use the tool carefully and follow the instructions to avoid damaging the pipes.
Q: How can I use a cup plunger to get hair out of a bathtub drain?
A: To use a cup plunger to clear hair from a bathtub drain, first remove the drain cover or stopper. Then, place the plunger over the drain and plunge vigorously to break up the clog. Finally, pour hot water down the drain to flush out any remaining hair.
Q: What should I do if my drain is still clogged after trying to remove the hair?
A: If your drain is still clogged after trying to remove the hair, you may need to call a plumber to use an electric drain snake to clear the blockage.
Q: How can I keep hair from getting caught in the sink drain?
A: To keep hair from getting caught in the sink drain, try one or more of the following tips: brush your hair before showering or washing it, use a drain guard or stopper, and regularly clean your drains with baking soda and vinegar.
Q: What do I do with the remaining hair after I remove it from the drain?
A: After you remove the hair from the drain, dispose of it in the trash rather than flushing it down the toilet or putting it down another drain.
