DIY May Be Possible Avg. cost: $125
Shower Not Draining: Causes, Fixes & When to Call a Plumber
Remove the drain cover and pull out hair clogs with a drain snake tool or bent wire. Clean the underside of the drain cover. If the drain doesn't improve, the clog is further down the pipe and requires a plumber's snake or hydro-jetting.
What Causes Shower Not Draining?
- Hair accumulation at drain strainer
- Soap scum coating the drain pipe interior
- Combined hair and shampoo/conditioner residue
- Partial clog deeper in the drain line
- Venting issue causing slow drainage
How to Fix Shower Drain Clog: Step-by-Step
- 1Remove the drain cover (usually lifts off or has a single screw)
- 2Clear visible hair from inside the drain opening
- 3Use a plastic drain snake or wire coat hanger to reach 6–12 inches into the drain
- 4Pour boiling water down the drain after clearing hair
- 5Install a hair catcher strainer over the drain to prevent recurrence
When Should You Call a Plumber?
Call a plumber if clearing the drain opening doesn't help, multiple drains are slow, the drain backs up completely, or you hear gurgling from other drains when the shower runs.
How Much Does Shower Drain Clog Repair Cost?
Average Cost $125
Typical Range $75 – $300
Costs vary by location, severity, and whether emergency service is needed. Prices shown are national averages. Get a free quote from a local plumber →
Frequently Asked Questions About Shower Drain Clog
- Install a hair catcher strainer ($5–$10) over the drain and clean it after every shower. Monthly, pour boiling water followed by a baking soda and vinegar flush down the drain. Avoid letting conditioner or shaving cream accumulate.
- Soap scum and hair residue inside the drain pipe feeds bacteria, causing odors. Pour a cup of baking soda and a cup of vinegar into the drain, let it foam for 15 minutes, then flush with hot water. If the smell persists, the P-trap may be dried or damaged.
- Most shower clogs are within the first 6–12 inches of the drain opening in the hair trap area. Stubborn clogs that don't respond to snaking the drain opening are typically 3–15 feet down the drain line, requiring a plumber's longer snake.