When it comes to drain blockages, two of the most frequent culprits are hair and soap residue. Over time, hair that falls into the shower or sink can accumulate in the drain, combining with soap scum and other debris to create stubborn clogs. These blockages can lead to slow-draining water, unpleasant odors, and, in some cases, complete drainage failure. At Clear Call Plumbers, we’ve helped many homeowners resolve blockages caused by hair and soap residue. In this post, we’ll discuss how these materials cause clogs, how to prevent them, and what to do when you have a clogged drain.
Hair and soap residue, while seemingly harmless on their own, create a perfect storm for drain blockages when combined.
Hair Accumulation Hair, especially long strands, doesn’t break down easily in water. When it goes down the drain, it often gets stuck in the drain cover or pipes, forming a tangled web. As more hair accumulates, the blockage grows, obstructing the flow of water. In showers and bathtubs, this problem can quickly escalate due to the regular hair shedding that happens during bathing.
Soap Residue Soap, particularly bar soap, is made from fats and oils. As it dissolves in water, it can form a sticky residue that clings to the inside of pipes. This soap scum can build up over time, gradually narrowing the pipe and restricting water flow. When combined with hair, soap residue forms a thick, stubborn clog that is difficult to remove without proper tools.
The Perfect Combo for Blockages When hair and soap residue combine, they create a blockage that can be hard to detect at first. The soap scum coats the hair, making the clog thicker and more resistant to water flow. This type of blockage can lead to slow-draining sinks, bathtubs, and showers, often resulting in standing water.
If hair and soap residue are building up in your drains, you’ll likely notice a few warning signs before the drain becomes completely blocked:
While hair and soap residue are common causes of drain blockages, there are several steps you can take to prevent them:
Use a Drain Cover One of the most effective ways to prevent hair from entering your drains is to use a drain cover or strainer in your sink and shower. These inexpensive devices catch hair before it goes down the drain, making it easy to clean out and dispose of properly.
Regularly Clean Your Drains Even with a drain cover, some hair and soap residue can still make its way into the pipes. Regularly cleaning your drains with hot water and a mixture of baking soda and vinegar can help break down soap scum and flush out minor clogs before they become serious issues.
Switch to Liquid Soap Liquid soap tends to produce less residue than bar soap. By switching to a liquid soap or body wash, you can reduce the amount of soap scum that builds up in your pipes.
Brush Hair Before Showering If you have long hair, consider brushing your hair before getting into the shower. This can reduce the amount of hair that falls out during washing, preventing it from going down the drain.
If you’re experiencing persistent drain blockages due to hair and soap residue, it may be time to call a professional plumber. At Clear Call Plumbers, we offer expert drain cleaning services to clear even the most stubborn clogs. Using advanced tools like drain snakes and hydro-jetting, we can remove blockages quickly and effectively, restoring your drain’s functionality.
Hair and soap residue are common contributors to drain blockages, but with the right preventative measures, you can keep your drains clear and avoid major issues. Regular cleaning, using a drain cover, and making smart choices about the products you use can go a long way in preventing clogs. If you’re dealing with a blockage that won’t clear, contact Clear Call Plumbers for professional help. We’ll ensure your drains are clean and flowing smoothly again.
