Just like kitchen sink drains, shower drains accumulate all kinds of items, from strands of hair, soap scum, debris, and gunk. For this reason, it’s recommended to clean shower drains regularly to keep wastewater flowing smoothly. You don’t want to find yourself in a scenario where you’re standing ankle-deep in dirty water. So, how often should you clean a shower drain?

In this article, Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Riverside looks into the recommended frequency of shower drain cleaning and the common signs that you need to call a professional for help.

For most households, cleaning the shower drain once a month is a good practice to prevent buildup of hair, soap scum, and other debris. This regular cleaning helps ensure the drain flows freely and reduces the risk of clogs. If you have multiple people using the shower regularly, especially those with long hair, you might need to clean the drain every other week to stay ahead of clogs. Long hair is a primary culprit in shower drain blockages, as it tends to tangle and trap other substances.

Why Regular Cleaning Is Important

  • Prevents clogs: Consistent shower drain cleaning in Riverside removes the small accumulations of debris before they compact into a stubborn blockage.   
  • Reduces odors: Trapped organic matter like hair and soap scum can decompose and lead to unpleasant smells emanating from your drain. Regular cleaning helps eliminate this source of odor.  
  • Maintains good drainage: A clean drain allows water to flow away quickly—it prevents standing water in your shower, which can be inconvenient and unhygienic.

Signs It Might Be Time To Clean Your Shower Drain

1. Water Drains Slowly

If water pools around your feet and takes longer than usual to drain, that’s a sign something’s clogging the line. Hair, soap scum, and mineral buildup are usually the culprits. This issue rarely goes away on its own—it only gets worse over time. Reach out to a professional plumber offering drain cleaning in Riverside for help.

2. Bad Odors Coming From the Drain

A foul smell wafting from your shower drain could indicate decomposing organic matter, such as hair, skin cells, or soap residue trapped in the pipes. Bacteria feed on these materials and release unpleasant odors. If you’ve ruled out mildew or mold in the shower itself, your drain is likely the source.

3. Gurgling or Bubbling Sounds

A properly functioning shower drain should be nearly silent. If you hear gurgling, bubbling, or strange suction noises while water goes down, there’s a good chance that air is trapped around a blockage. This could be a sign that a clog is forming deeper in the pipe. You need an expert to carry out a video line inspection to find out what’s causing the obstruction and offer a solution.

4. Frequent Clogs

If you find yourself reaching for the plunger or drain snake every few weeks, it’s time for a deeper clean. Recurring clogs are a sign that the pipe walls may be coated in buildup, even if the water is technically still flowing. Having a plumber clean your drains will provide you with a long-lasting solution that will save you money down the road.

5. Presence of Fruit Flies or Drain Flies

It might sound odd, but if you’ve noticed tiny flies hovering near your shower drain, they may be feeding on organic gunk within the pipes. These pests are a sign of poor drain hygiene and a good indicator that your system needs cleaning.

Stay Ahead Of Shower Drain Clogs with Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Riverside

While minor shower drain clogs can be cleared using a plunger or drain snake, severe blockages need professional help. Call the plumbers at Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Riverside if you’re in need of professional drain cleaning in Riverside. Our team is highly skilled in addressing drain line issues in residential and commercial properties. Contact us today to schedule an appointment for drain cleaning service.