Install a Hair Catcher

Placing a hair catcher or mesh strainer over the shower drain is the single most effective way to prevent slow drains from recurring. These inexpensive devices sit over or inside the drain opening and trap hair before it enters the pipe, addressing the root cause rather than treating the symptom. Most shower drain clogs are caused by hair, so catching it at the surface eliminates the problem almost entirely.

Types of Hair Catchers

• Flat silicone strainers sit over the drain and use small holes or a mesh pattern to trap hair while allowing water through
• Mushroom-style dome catchers (such as TubShroom) fit inside the drain opening and collect hair around a central cylinder
• Stainless steel mesh strainers are the most durable option and resist mildew better than silicone

Tips

• Clean the hair catcher after every shower for best results; a clogged catcher defeats its purpose
• Choose a catcher sized to your specific drain opening, as shower drains come in different diameters
• Even with a hair catcher, flush the drain with hot water weekly to prevent soap scum buildup
• Replace silicone catchers every 6-12 months as they lose grip and flatten over time