Why Your Shower Drain Keeps Clogging (And How to Fix It Without Chemicals)

Is your shower backing up again? You’re not alone. Shower clogs are one of the most common plumbing problems in Broward homes — and most are caused by the same handful of culprits.

In this post, I’ll explain the most likely reasons your shower drain keeps clogging, plus how to fix it without using harsh chemical cleaners that can damage your plumbing.

□ 1. Hair Buildup (The #1 Cause)

Hair collects just beneath the drain grate and tangles with soap residue to form a nasty, stringy clog. This is especially common in homes with long-haired residents or pets.

Fix it: Use a plastic hair removal tool like a Zip-It. Slide it down the drain, twist, and pull — you’ll be surprised what comes out!

□ 2. Soap Scum + Product Gunk

Body washes, conditioners, and shampoos create a waxy buildup over time. Combine that with hard water and you’ve got a recipe for restricted flow.

Fix it: Pour ½ cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by ½ cup of white vinegar. Let it fizz for 15 minutes, then flush with boiling water.

□ 3. Grime From Dirty Water

All that dirt from your feet, shaving cream, and skin cells has to go somewhere. Over time, it sticks to the inside of your pipes and traps debris.

Fix it: Use the baking soda + vinegar method regularly to break down buildup. Avoid bar soaps if you have hard water.

□ 4. Broken or Misaligned Drain Piping

If you’ve tried DIY solutions but clogs return quickly, your shower drain pipe may be misaligned, collapsed, or undersized. This is more common in older homes.

Fix it: You’ll need a licensed plumber to camera the line and repair or replace the pipe. We handle this all the time in Fort Lauderdale and surrounding cities.

We Offer Expert Drain Cleaning Across Broward

Amy’s Plumbing provides fast, non-chemical drain clearing that’s safe for your pipes — and tough on grime. From Fort Lauderdale to Coral Springs, we’ll get your shower draining like new.

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About Amy

I’m Amy Francis, founder of Amy’s Plumbing Corp in Fort Lauderdale. Since 2017, I’ve proudly served Broward homeowners with licensed plumbing solutions you can trust. My goal? Show up, solve problems, and treat your home like my own — every time.

About Amy
Hi! I’m Amy Francis — proud owner of Amy’s Plumbing Corp in Fort Lauderdale. I started this business in 2017 to bring honest, licensed plumbing to Broward families. Whether it’s a leak or a full repipe, I believe in showing up, solving problems, and treating your home like my own.