Wear thick rubber gloves during application. Learn more. Thrifts odorless dry granules are activated by hot water to dissolve the sticky grime and sludge that traps hair without damaging pipes or brass, porcelain, and metal fixtures. If you want a hair clog solution for another size drain in your home, there's also the SinkShroom, the ShowerShroom, and the StopShroom. While snakes may help get rid of most of the scum and hair, a liquid, gel, or powder drain cleaner can usually finish dissolving the hair and remove built-up scum that coats pipes. This drain cleaner is also known for its powerful ability to kill and prevent fruit flies, gnats, and other flies that tend to hang around the moist environment of a clogged sink., Even though this drain cleaner is on the pricier side, when used as directed by the label (four ounces poured into the drain daily for one week), the gallon-sized bottle can last for 32 applications. 
The chemicals will cling to any clogged strands and break them down into a liquid form that can more easily pass through pipes. 
Not to worry, it's still an effective hair clog blaster that works quickly. This natural cleaner can get rid of hair clogs and even liquefy some paper products. We also appreciate that Drano Max Gel is reasonably priced, yet it still comes with a money-back guarantee. Despite its crystal form, this product is safe to use on porcelain, chrome trim, polished brass, plastic, or metal pipes.. If you make a purchase using the links included, we may earn commission. Its safe to use in all types of pipes and with septic systems, and you should use it once a month for best results. Who it's for: People who want to quickly get rid of tough clogs in most drains and pipes. Without the fumes that many chemical drain cleaners produce, Thrifts alkaline drain cleaner clears hair clogs by liquefying the hair. When hair is rinsed down, it gets trapped in the TubShroom, saving it from getting caught in your pipes. This product is intended for use in sinks, tubs, and shower drains. Drano Max Gel Drain Clog Remover and Cleaner. Fewer things are more frustrating than a slow-flowing or clogged drain at home. Try one of these three easy methods to make sure your ring fits perfectly, every time. Several kinds of drain cleaners, including liquids, gels, powders, and drain snakes, are in todays marketplace. For a fast-acting product that tackles your backed-up pipes, this list includes some of the best drain cleaners for hair. By Brittany Varano | Updated May 10, 2022 12:53 PM. Ben is a Streaming and Home Entertainment Fellow for the Insider Reviews team, where he covers the latest in streaming services along with roundups of popular TVs, speakers, and headphones. It takes some time to work and requires a few tries for the best results, but it's still the best choice when it comes to maintaining drains and pipes to prevent clogs down the line. Email us at reviews@insider.com. Drano Max Gel may break up small hair clogs in 7 minutes, but leave it for at least 30 minutes for better results. this link is to an external site that may or may not meet accessibility guidelines. This liquid cleaner is quick to clear all organic debris and residue (like grease, hair, and soap scum), and it's safe to use on nearly every type of pipe, whether in a residential or commercial setting.. It can also be used in sinks, garbage disposals, bathtubs, septic systems, and all types of pipes. Drainx 25-Ft Pro Drum Auger Plumbing Snake, The 8 Best Drain Snakes for Easy Unclogging, Best for Septic Systems: The fast-acting product is particularly powerful enough to keep kitchen drains clean, but it can be a great option for shower and bathroom sink clogs, too. Unlike other cleaning products, finding drain cleaners made with natural or organic ingredients is quite the challenge. First, read the directions on the label. You may be able to unclog the drain yourself, as there are a variety of affordable products designed to help cut through even the toughest shower clogs. Dranos Max Gel Drain Clog Remover utilizes bleach to clean and clear pipes.
Save your money and opt for the FlexiSnake Drain Weasel Hair Clog Tool, a reusable device that will help fish out hair, gunk, and other debris. If you still have questions about the best drain cleaners for hair clogs, this section may help. Offers may be subject to change without notice. Who it isn't for: People who want a drain cleaner that is easy to find in any store. Who it isn't for: People who need a fast-acting product would be better off with a chemical drain cleaner. This liquid hair clog solution is made to fight common back ups. Pour 1 quart of Green Gobbler drain cleaner slowly down the drain; it usually takes at least two hours to unclog the hair. If you're only looking for a preventative method, then a drain cleaner formulated for hair clogs might not be the most effective choice. We researched the most sought-after drain cleaners for hair in their respective categories and discovered that the best options for clogged drains are determined by their type, working time, compatibility with multiple drains and fixtures, and other special features included by top brands. As a natural drain cleaner, this product isnt as fast-acting as some of the alternatives, but its a natural choice for your home. When trying to clear a hair clog, most consumers want to consider several other characteristics, including organic vs. chemical, working time, odor removal, and application method. Who it's for: People with grease or oil clogging their drains.. We've updated our Privacy Policy, which will go in to effect on September 1, 2022. For the price, you'll be hard-pressed to find a more affordable and easier to use drain cleaner than this Valstar drain snake. It's mostly used for severe clogs in slow-draining sinks and tubs. Enzymatic cleaners take longer to work because they use natural ingredients, while chemical cleaners are fast-acting because they use harsher ingredients. Who it isn't for: People on a tight budget who need an affordable drain cleaner. As hair reaches the drain, the TubShroom catches the strands. Our best overall pick for drain cleaners is Drano Max Gel Clog Remover, which also comes recommended by experts. (Old lead pipes, for example, might only be able to handle a natural cleaner.). You can stop hair from blocking up your shower drain with the TubShroom.
The turning knob allows you to drive the snake through blockages, clearing a hole that allows water to pass, and it will also pull up hair and other gunk that may be caught in your pipes. What we like: Two-in-one solution, good for tough clogs. Although some chemical drain cleaners can be corrosive, this product's formula is safe and wont damage pipes. "It's best to use hot to boiling water to activate its magic since high temperature allows the crystals to dissolve and remove any debris," says Johnson., Insta-Flo Odorless Drain Cleaner can clear out all types of clogs, but it is not suitable for use in toilets or garbage disposals. Enzymatic cleaners are formulated with natural bacteria, which makes them safe for the environment but slower to unclog drains than chemical cleaners. A manual drain cleaner, for example, requires more effort but is a non-toxic and generally affordable approach. After dissolving the powder in warm water, pour the mixture into the drain. This unique little contraption can be installed into any standard 1.5-inch tub drain, replacing your drain stopper. Environmentally-conscious consumers, in particular, may want to try to clear their clogs with a drain snake before trying other methods. For this reason, those with septic systems will want to look for a septic-safe drain cleaner, such as this one from XIONLAB. He comes from a background in music journalism and he's one of the minds behind "More Than A Hit," a podcast with his brother Brenton where the two talk with music stars from their childhood. Because the formula in Bio-Clean only affects organic matter, it will not damage your pipes and other inorganic materials. 34 Great Books to Suit Any Mood or Interest.
Its also biodegradable, doesnt produce an offensive odor, and has a four-star rating on Amazon. Gel drain cleaners are designed specifically to move through pipes slower than liquids, so the active ingredients have more time to eat away at the grime thats stuck to pipe walls. But in those inevitable times when grease ends up in the drain, Pequa's Heavy Duty Drain Opener is the most effective option. A chemical cleaner that's biodegradable can quickly and effectively unblock drains, without costing a lot or damaging the environment. Green Gobbler Liquid Clog Remover is a non-corrosive liquid drain cleaner that doesnt damage pipes or septic systems, but works hard to dislodge pesky clogs. Read on for the best shower drain cleaners to help clear out your homes pipes. While natural enzyme drain cleaners are less toxic, they also are typically less powerful and slower at breaking up hair clogs. Get the FlexiSnake remover kit at Amazon, Sears, and Walmart. After just about two hours, the Green Gobbler dissolver will eliminate blockages such as hair clogs. Who it isn't for: People who need a fast-acting cleaner for other drains in their home. Bustle may receive a portion of sales from products purchased from this article, which was created independently from Bustle's editorial and sales departments. When there's a clog in a kitchen or bathroom sink, standing water and strong odors are sure to attract pesky flies and gross bacteria. While most drain cleaners are created with the same goal in mind, some are designed for a particular use, such as unclogging a toilet or a kitchen sink filled with grease. TubShroom Drain Protector Hair Catcher, How to Make a Homemade Drain Cleaner That Will Demolish Clogs, The Best Shower Tile Cleaners to Make Your Shower Shine, The Best Cleaners for Glass Shower Doors to Keep Them Sparkling, Inspect Plumbing Regularly to Prevent Expensive Problems, Learn How to Freshen and Unclog a Drain With Baking Soda, The Right Way to Use a Standard Drain Plunger, How to Snake a Drain (and Stop Slow Drains Forever), How to Use a Drain Snake to Quickly Clear Shower Clogs, The Best Washing Machine Cleaners for a Fresh Laundry Routine, The Telltale Signs of a Clogged Sewer Drain in Your House, 8 Essential Tasks to Do Regularly for Septic Tank Maintenance. Instant Power Hair and Grease Drain Cleaner, Best Preventative: The kit comes with a reusable handle and two 18-inch refill wands with a slim 1/8-inch diameter. And although there is more of a learning curve to use it than the other products on this list, Amazon reviewers have generally given it high marks with a nearly four-star average rating. One of the quickest ways to remove a hair clog is with a drain snake. The hairs wrap neatly around the base, keeping trapped hair not only out of sight but out of the plumbing. The TubShroom comes in several colors, and its made from durable silicone that can last up to 10 years. By clicking Sign up, you agree to receive marketing emails from Insider Most drain cleaners also effectively eliminate the odors associated with clogs as they dissolve and flush away the debris. What we like: Breaks down hair and other blockages, works in as little as 30 minutes. We highlight products and services you might find interesting. After 15 to 30 minutes, you can run hot water down the drain and will start to see results. There's a Name for ThatHere Are 8 Ways You Can Break Through It. By using natural enzymes that digest clog-causing proteins, Bio-Cleans powder drain cleaner is a safe way to clean and maintain pipes, drains, and septic systems. Like other natural enzymatic drain cleaners, this product is safe to use in bathrooms, kitchens, grease traps, septic systems, garbage disposals, and even kitty litter pans. at Amazon, Sears, and Walmart. There are two basic types of drain cleaners: natural (enzymatic) and chemical (caustic or acidic). All you have to do is pour it down your shower or tub drain, wait at least two hours, then flush the pipes with water. It will feed on, swallow, and digest the clog, ultimately clearing your drain. After the clog seems to be weakening, pull up the snake along with the clog out of your pipe. When your pipe starts to show signs of a hair clog, the first step is to use a drain snake to remove as much of the debris as possible. Copyright 2022, How to Shop for Drain Cleaners Like a Pro, Green Gobbler Ultimate Main Line Drain Opener, CLR Clear Pipes and Drains Monthly Build-Up Remover. Real Simple is part of the Meredith Home Group. It's made with naturally derived ingredients that make it safe enough to use in soda fountain drip trays, garbage disposals, and mop buckets.. All you have to do is clean it off after each shower. While all these types of drain cleaners can help solve your plumbing issues, they work differently, depending on the drainage issue and individual preference. An easy and effective hair clog blaster, simply pour the product down your sink, wait at least 30 minutes, then flush water down the drain to see the results. Chemical cleaners are highly effective, but they're formulated with harsher ingredients such as sodium hydroxide and hydrochloric acid, which may cause some damage to pipes if used incorrectly or too frequently. We also spoke to two cleaning expertsAlicia Johnson, owner of Cleaning Green LLC, and Ray Brosnan, co-founder of Brosnan Property Solutionsfor tips and insight on how drain cleaners work and exactly what to look for when buying one. Keeping foods chilled properly helps them last longer and stay fresher. However, if the thought of coming face to face with a wad of greasy old hair makes you feel icky, then a chemical cleaner might be the best bet. According to Johnson, drain cleaners can last about two years. While this drain cleaner is on the pricier side, each canister has enough product for up to 100 chemical-free treatments. It can be as short as 15 to 20 minutes, but sometimes, the manufacturer recommends letting the cleaner remain undisturbed in the pipe overnight. Most people know that you should avoid pouring grease down the kitchen sink to prevent clogs and damage to drains and pipes. Who it's for: People with moderate clogs who prefer to use products made with natural ingredients. This drain snake is easy to use, and it has a 25-foot cable that can reach even the deepest clogs. Some products begin working in just about a minute, but others may take a few minutes, hours, or even days. Bio-Clean is our favorite enzymatic drain cleaner for its efficient and biodegradable formula that doesn't compromise its cleaning power. You can purchase logo and accolade licensing to this story here. Difficult blockages may require more than one application. Each product we feature has been independently selected and reviewed by our editorial team. All you need to do with this product is pour one-fifth of a bottle down your drain. The TubShroom Tub Drain Protector is an in-drain hair catcher with a unique design. To compile this list, she spent hours researching drain cleaners and narrowing down the best options based on the formula, suggested use, overall value, and more. What we like: Includes plant and vegetable-based ingredients, no artificial ingredients. This distinction refers to the active ingredients in the drain cleaner that dissolve or break up clogs. Plus, experts love how effective this drain cleaner is in a single use, especially compared to others that can take several tries (or more than one bottle) to unclog a drain. as well as other partner offers and accept our. Copyright 2022 Acton Media Inc. All rights reserved. PowerPoint Parties Are the Party Trend You Have to Try: Here's How to Host One. Here's How to Tell. This reliable and effective cleaner is a thick gel that goes deep in sinks, pipes, and drains to reach the source of the clog and completely dissolve it. Then you could probably benefit from a product like the Zep Drain Defense Pipe Build-Up Remover, which will help to prevent blockages when used regularly. The best way to stop a hair clog from forming is to use a drain cover. We like Insta-Flo's Odorless Drain Cleaner since it's a non-acidic crystal cleaner that can clear out clogged drains extremely fastin just 60 seconds, according to the brand. Professor Amos SuperFast 2-Pack Drain Cleaner, FlexiSnake Drain Weasel Sink Snake Drain Clog Remover Kit, TubShroom the Revolutionary Tub Drain Protector, THRIFT FBA_T-600 T-600 Granular Drain Cleaner, FlexiSnake Drain Weasel Sink Snake Drain Clog Remover, 11 Ways to Make the Most of Your Towns Curbside Cleanup Day, 10 Genius Inventions for Your Cleanest Bathroom Ever, The Best Shower Drain Hair Catchers of 2022, The Best Shower Cleaners for a Squeaky-Clean Bathroom, 7 Clever Ways to Unclog a Toilet Without a Plunger, Non-corrosive on metal pipes or septic systems, Suitable for use in showers, sinks, and toilets, May need to sit overnight for tough clogs, Not suitable for toilets, garbage disposals, or dishwashers, Safe for use on PVC, metal, garbage disposals, and septic systems, Safe for skin, pipes, drains, and septic systems, Longer working time compared to similar options, Safe to use on PVC, copper, and steel pipes, May not be safe for dishwashers, toilets, and garbage disposals, Some users report limited durability or ineffectual use, May be tricky to remove hair that has become knotted, Not suitable for toilets or garbage disposals, Gloves and eyewear recommended while using. This brand is known for its effective and affordable drain cleaning products, and the Drano Max Gel is one of your best options when you need to unclog a shower drain. Because septic systems rely on bacteria to break down waste, antibacterial chemical drain cleaners can often cause your system to become imbalanced.
Then, when youve reached the hair clog, you tighten the thumb screw and turn the hand crank which drills the metal cable into the obstruction, breaking it up, and clearing it out of the way. To maximize the unclogging action, you may want to wait overnight before flushing with hot water. The label also should tell you how much cleaner to use based on the type of drain that needs unblocking. Chemical cleaners work similarly, breaking down clogs through heat generated by a chemical reaction. Five disposable wands come with the Drain Weasel. While some of these options contain heavy chemicals, many are all-natural and safe to use without protective gear or in homes with children and pets. To find the best drain cleaners, we spent hours researching various formulas while considering factors such as type, ingredients (like chemical vs. natural), and the ability to clear certain drains and pipes. Drain snakes may take care of smaller clogs without the use of another type of drain cleaner. Thrift requires careful storage, and users should wear protective goggles and gloves during application. Repeat as necessary to fully dislodge the hair clog. By now you probably know that enzymes are naturally occurring bacteria that break down residue. Shaving can cause or exacerbate a clog, especially if you use a thick shaving cream or high-lather soap. One of the best ways to avoid future clogs is by using a preventative drain cleaner. All you have to do is pour 16 ounces of the gel down your shower drain (or 32 ounces for extremely slow-running drains) and wait 15 to 30 minutes. Most drain cleaners are not suitable for toilets for several reasons: Any bleach left behind from cleaning a toilet combined with the ammonia commonly found in drain cleaners will produce a toxic gas called chloramine. For difficult blockages, the drain cleaner may need to sit overnight. If you dont like the idea of using chemicals in your homes pipes, you can clean the shower drain manually with the Drainx Pro Steel Drum Auger Plumbing Snake. Gel also is better at attaching to the hair that causes clogs, dissolving it more quickly than most liquids. Whether the clog is from hair, soap scum, grease, or any other type of residue, this drain cleaner works within 15 to 30 minutes after flushing it with very hot water. So, if you're looking for a low-effort way to dissolve clumps of hair from your drain, this product is the obvious choice to buy. If it fails to unclog your drain, then you can file a claim online for reimbursement. This product can be used to successfully clear drains of everything from toothpaste to hair to food particles to oil. Let it sit for 15 to 30 minutes before flushing with hot water. Camryn Rabideau is a freelance writer specializing in decorating and design. Working time can vary, depending on the type of drain cleaner and the severity of the clog. Drain cleaners for hair clogs usually fall into one of two categories: organic or chemical. our process. It's also an EPA Safer Choice product, which means that it meets strict criteria for ingredients, performance, packaging, and more.. Both types of drain cleaners can dissolve hair in pipes. Clogs can happen in the sink, shower, and even the garbage disposal and each of these drain types may require a certain drain cleaner to fix the blockage. This powerful cleaner comes in 67.6-ounce bottles for numerous applications, and its strong, non-acid formula will help cut through standing water, getting to the root of the issue. We love that this formula works on every type of drain pipe and can clear just about any clog. Most pods are better at deodorizing a drain than unclogging it, and in fact, they may exacerbate a blockage if its severe. After pouring a scoop of the cleaner down the drain, flush the drain with water to cut through grease and hair. Before you make your own drain cleaner, consider some of the most important features to consider. This non-corrosive and odorless liquid can eliminate toilet paper, baby wipes, and other buildup that may clog your toilets. For a natural choice that's just as effective at unclogging drains, we suggest Bio-Clean's Drain Septic Bacteria, which is a powerful enzymatic drain cleaner. The price of a plumber to fix your pipes can be hundreds of dollars in some cases, depending on how bad your clog is. Who it isn't for: People who want a fast-acting drain cleaner for existing clogs. This formula liquefies grease, hair, soap scum, and other organic materials in a matter of minutes, and its unique double-sided container has two pre-measured applications, so you don't have to worry about using too much or too little. Although not all clogged drains are able to be resolved with chemicals, blockages primarily made up of hair can be effectively dissolved with a chemical drain cleaner like this one from Green Gobbler. That's why we recommend CLR Clear Pipes and Drains Monthly Build-Up Remover.
Best of all, the package comes with three separate drain cleaners, so instead of having to rinse off the cleaner which could be a bit gross, you can use a fresh new drain snake the next two times you need to unclog your drains. Another type of drain cleaner, pods are similar to laundry or dishwashing detergent pods. According to the brand, this thick gel cleaner can tackle tough hairballs in just 15 minutes after rinsing and flushing away with hot water. After you place the model in your drain, you can easily pull it out once it's full with a napkin or paper towel. If sensitivity to odors is a concern, look for an odorless drain cleaner designed to eliminate the odor. Get honest reviews on top products & services delivered weekly to your inbox. Its powerful gel formula is safe for most drains and pipes and capable of quickly clearing up the toughest clogs in bathtubs, sinks, garbage disposals, and septic systems. Get the Bio-Clean bacteria on Amazon and at Walmart. For a cheap and quick fix, a snake or dissolving liquid will often do the trick. Whether you have long hair or short hair, pieces tend to get washed down the drain over time, which leads to pesky clogs and puddles of sitting water in your bath or sink. Get daily tips and tricks for making your best home. As is the case with most cleaning products, drain cleaners will not technically expire, but will begin to lose their effectiveness over time. What we like: Comes in a pack, can be resued, barbed design, multiple lengths. We welcome your feedback. They also can be a good option for tackling clumps of hair in the drain. What we like: Simple design, stops clogs before they occur, can pull it out and easily wash it. In order to use the pack correctly, you'll use the snake first to pull out any large hair clump with the snake's various hooks. Plus, many of the drain cleaners on this list are safe to use for clogs in sinks, showers, tubs, toilets, and garbage disposals. If after several tries your drain is still not clear, Brosnan recommends trying out drain-cleaning tools such as a snake or plunger. It's important to decide if time is a considerable factor in choosing a drain cleaner. If you don't want to rely on liquid, you can shake, twist, then pull out this snake to take care of that clog. When hair flows down the drain, this coating is tacky, so hair sticks and slowly collects until a clog forms. Instead of harsh chemicals, this liquid cleaner is formulated with natural enzymes that are still tough enough to break down buildup and dissolve moderate clogsall without damaging your pipes. A quick swipe with a paper towel is usually enough to remove the hair. Professor Amos SuperFast Drain Cleaner is a commercial-grade, excellent option for those who need their pipes unclogged fast. We also like that this drain cleaner is from a women- and family-owned brand. After inserting the rod, spin the hooks and pull up the debris. When used as directed, it wont harm the enzymes that keep your septic system working, but it will get your drain working again in no time. If you buy them, we may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our partners. The products label indicates how long to wait for the drain cleaner to work. To use a drain snake, first feed it into the pipe until it meets resistance. This drain cleaner can be used on all types of pipes, as well as with septic systems, and it helps to clear up common drain stoppages, including those caused by hair and grease. The Green Gobbler is good for a number of different types of pipes, too, including PVC, copper, iron, and steel. After you pour in the correct amount of gel, liquid, or powder, wait the recommended time for the cleaner to break up the clog. Using drain cleaner too frequently can lead to potential pipe damage, and one sign of damage is if it doesn't flush thoroughly after using the product. After, pour the Drano down the sink or bath to eliminate any additional grime build ups. FlexiSnake Drain Weasel Hair Clog Tool Starter Kit at Home Depot, Drainx 25-Ft Pro Drum Auger Plumbing Snake at Amazon, Green Gobbler Drain Clog Dissolver at Amazon, Instant Power Hair and Grease Drain Cleaner at Amazon, Zep Drain Defense Pipe Build-up Remover at Lowe's, TubShroom Drain Protector Hair Catcher at Amazon, The 8 Best Drain Cleaners to Safely Unclog Pipes, Best Budget: It also lacks artificial ingredients when it comes to color and fragrance and none of its products include ingredients such as ammonia, chlorine, or phosphates.