How to Unclog a Shower Drain with Standing Water

Remove standing water first, then use a plunger, drain snake, or baking soda and vinegar to break up the clog blocking your shower drain.

  1. Clear the Pool First. Use a cup, bucket, or wet vacuum to remove as much standing water as possible from the shower floor. You need access to the drain and a clear workspace. If water keeps refilling, there's a complete blockage that you'll need to clear.
  2. Expose the Drain. Most shower drain covers lift out by hand or need to be unscrewed. Look for visible screws around the edges, or try lifting straight up if it's a drop-in style. Some covers twist counterclockwise to remove. Set the cover aside where it won't get damaged.
  3. Hunt the Hair. Pull out any hair, soap buildup, or debris you can see with your hands or needle-nose pliers. Hair clogs are usually the main culprit in shower drains. Don't push anything further down - only pull up and out.
  4. Plunge It Out. Use a cup plunger (not a toilet plunger) over the drain opening. Create a tight seal and plunge vigorously 10-15 times. The suction and pressure can break loose clogs that are just below the surface. Add a little water around the plunger if needed for a better seal.
  5. Snake Down Deep. Feed a drain snake or straightened coat hanger down the drain, twisting as you go. When you feel resistance, work the snake back and forth to break up the clog. Pull out slowly, bringing debris up with it. Repeat this process several times.
  6. Let Chemistry Work. Pour one cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by one cup of white vinegar. Cover the drain with a wet cloth or stopper for 30 minutes. The chemical reaction helps dissolve soap scum and organic matter. Follow with hot water to flush everything through.
  7. Verify Full Drain. Run hot water for several minutes to test the drain and wash away any remaining debris. If water drains quickly without backing up, you've solved the problem. If it's still slow, repeat the snake and vinegar treatment.
  8. Secure the Cover. Put the drain cover back in place, screwing it down or pressing it into position. Make sure it sits flush and secure. Test the shower again to confirm proper drainage before considering the job complete.