Dealing with a clogged shower drain is never fun. From standing water to unpleasant odors, even minor clogs can turn your daily routine into a mess. Worse, ignoring early warning signs can lead to more serious plumbing issues down the line.

Fortunately, most shower drain clogs are preventable with simple habits and the right knowledge. At Fast Trak Plumbing And Drain, your trusted experts in Plumbing Commerce City CO, we believe in solving problems before they start. That’s why we’ve put together this in-depth guide with 10 practical, results-driven tips to help you protect your pipes and keep your shower running smoothly.

1. Install a Hair Catcher or Drain Screen

Hair is the leading cause of shower drain clogs. Whether it’s long strands or short shavings, once it collects in the drainpipe, it quickly tangles with soap and grime, forming a blockage.

The simplest solution? Install a mesh drain catcher or silicone hair trap. These affordable and user-friendly tools sit over or inside your drain and catch hair before it disappears into your pipes. Make it a habit to clean the catcher after every shower or at least every few days to prevent buildup.

2. Brush Your Hair Before Showering

Prevent hair from reaching the drain in the first place by brushing it before you step into the shower. This dislodges loose hairs and keeps them from shedding during your wash.

While it may seem like a small step, this habit adds up over time, especially in households with multiple people or pets.

3. Use the Right Shower Products

Many people don’t realize that certain hair and body products can lead to clogged drains. Heavy conditioners, oil-based shampoos, sugar scrubs, and bath bombs often leave behind a thick residue that clings to your pipes.

This sticky film traps hair, dirt, and dead skin, making it easier for clogs to form. Switch to water-based, biodegradable products when possible—or at least rinse your drain thoroughly after using thicker substances.

For high-performance results, choose plumber-recommended solutions or speak with your local expert at Fast Trak Plumbing And Drain.

4. Flush the Drain with Hot Water Weekly

Hot water helps dissolve grease, soap scum, and other buildup clinging to your drain walls. Once a week, pour a kettle of hot (not boiling) water down the drain. This works especially well after using thicker body products or if multiple people shower daily in your home.

Doing this simple flush on a regular basis is a proven method to keep your pipes flowing freely.

5. Clean the Drain Cover and Surrounding Area

It’s easy to focus only on what’s inside the pipe, but grime and hair also collect around the outer rim of the drain. Cleaning this visible area once a week reduces the chances of anything falling in.

Use an old toothbrush or cleaning cloth to scrub the cover and surrounding floor tiles. You’ll keep your shower cleaner and eliminate one more source of debris.

6. Skip the Harsh Chemical Drain Cleaners

When you notice your drain running slow, it might be tempting to grab a store-bought drain cleaner. But these harsh chemicals often do more harm than good, especially for older plumbing systems.

Over time, they can corrode your pipes and create weak spots. Instead, use natural alternatives like a baking soda and vinegar combo—or call your well-experienced team at Fast Trak Plumbing And Drain for safe, long-lasting solutions.

7. Be Cautious with Bath Additives

Products like bath salts, bath oils, and glittery bath bombs often contain ingredients that don’t dissolve completely. These bits can collect in your pipes, stick to soap residue, and contribute to blockages.

If you love using these products, make sure you rinse your tub thoroughly afterward and consider installing a filter-style drain trap to catch non-dissolvable particles.

8. Do a Monthly DIY Drain Clean

Once a month, perform a deep clean using natural ingredients. Here’s a simple method:

Pour ½ cup of baking soda down the drain Follow with ½ cup of white vinegar Let it sit for 15–30 minutes Flush with hot water

This chemical-free approach helps break up grime and deodorize your drain. It’s a smart, eco-friendly routine that supports your system’s long-term health.

9. Pay Attention to Drain Behavior

Your shower drain won’t clog overnight. It usually gives you hints—slow draining, gurgling sounds, or odd smells. These are your warning signs that buildup is forming.

Don’t wait until it’s fully blocked. Address issues early by calling a top-rated plumber in Commerce City CO, like Fast Trak Plumbing And Drain. Early intervention can save you time, money, and frustration.

10. Schedule Routine Plumbing Maintenance

Even if you follow all the tips above, your plumbing system still needs regular professional attention—just like your HVAC or electrical systems. Annual or semi-annual inspections by a trusted plumbing contractor can catch small issues before they become major headaches.

Our team at Fast Trak Plumbing And Drain offers comprehensive maintenance services tailored for homeowners in Commerce City CO. We make plumbing care simple, affordable, and stress-free.

 

Final Thoughts

Preventing a clogged shower drain doesn’t take a lot of time or money—just consistency and awareness. With smart habits and a little help from your local plumbing professionals, you can avoid costly backups and keep your bathroom running like it should.

If you’re noticing warning signs, or want help setting up a preventative maintenance plan, reach out to Fast Trak Plumbing And Drain—the go-to experts for Plumbing Commerce City CO. Our results-driven service is built on experience, reliability, and customer satisfaction.