Modern shower drains allow you to take apart each component and easily clean them with bleach and water or warm soapy water. We’ve chosen five of the best drain cleaners and will tell you about all the pros and cons, so you can decide which one will work the best for you.

After waiting 10 minutes, the clog was still firmly in place and so a lot of rigorous plunging action was required to dislodge it.

Hands-On Expertise & Collective Knowledge: Our team boasts extensive DIY experience and in-depth knowledge. Some chemicals in drain cleaners can be irritating for older pipes. Make sure you pay close attention to the recommended uses. If you want to use a drain cleaner that adds benefits, look for one with anti-corrosion ingredients, which helps maintain the integrity of your plumbing over time. The formula is definitely the best part of this product. The non-acid formula guarantees all piping and drainage is safe, but we advise not to use this solution on waste disposal drainage because the non-stainless steel can become damaged. We also recommend not using this product on toilets either, because it can potentially lead to it overflowing, causing safety issues. Instead of a liquid or a gel, this caustic Drano drain cleaner is a foaming solution that expands when poured into the drain. Typically, liquids and gels run directly to the clog because they are more influenced by gravity, which means some areas are left untreated. By expanding, this drain cleaner fills the entire pipe, ensuring that every interior surface is affected by the cleaner.

Biodegradable and enzyme-based drain cleaners are generally considered safe for pipes, as they break down organic matter rather than corroding it with chemicals,” said Brown. “However, they may not be as effective at clearing tough clogs as chemical cleaners.” Don’t use them on older plastic or metal pipes or pipes of any age made of aluminum chrome, stainless steel, or galvanized steel. They can burn skin and irritate eyes and lungs if inhaled, so using safety gear—respirator, safety glasses, skin-covering clothing, and chemical-resistant gloves—is a must. Tips for Using Drain Cleaner Independent: We will tell you exactly what we think of a product and we would never recommend anything we wouldn't use ourselves. The method of application helps remove foul odors and works to dissolve hair, food, grease, and soap scum clogs. However, this method takes about 60 minutes to work. Additionally, the drain cleaner isn’t effective in standing water or toilets. Comprehensive Research: Our team dedicates extensive time and effort to research and analyze products, so you can make informed decisions.Here are a few more steps you can use, along with the use of safety masks to protect yourself from harmful substances in the environment: