A clogged shower drain can be a major headache for homeowners. Water pooling in your shower is not just an inconvenience; it can cause damage to your bathroom or even lead to health hazards if not treated properly. The good news is that you can take care of this problem yourself by snaking the drain. Here are ten simple steps to help you snake a shower drain effectively:

1. Gather the necessary tools: To snake your shower drain, you’ll need a drain snake (also known as an auger), a pair of rubber gloves, a bucket, and a towel or rag.

2. Prepare the work area: Make sure your shower is clean and free from standing water. Turn off the water supply to avoid accidental spills while working on the drain.

3. Remove the drain cover: Carefully unscrew or pry off the shower drain cover using a screwdriver if needed. Make sure not to damage it in the process.

4. Put on rubber gloves: This is important! You’ll be dealing with dirt and hair from the clogged drain, so wear gloves to protect your hands from germs and bacteria.

5. Insert the snake into the drain: Slowly feed the end (the “cable”) of your drain snake into the opening of the shower drain until you feel resistance.

6. Crank the snake handle clockwise: Begin turning the handle clockwise to break up any clogs or debris within the pipe.

7. Continue cranking until you reach the clog: Slowly spiral through any obstructions, keeping tension on the cable so you don’t lose contact with whatever is blocking your pipes.

8. Retract and clean the snake: Once you’ve pierced through or dislodged any obstructions, begin pulling back on your snake, slowly spiraling counterclockwise while wiping it down with a rag as it emerges from your drain.

9. Inspect and clean the drain cover: Take this opportunity to clean your drain cover, removing any hair or debris that has collected on it. Reattach the cover securely.

10. Test your work: Allow water to run down your shower drain for a few minutes to ensure it’s flowing smoothly and to confirm that you’ve successfully removed the clog. If water is still pooling, repeat steps 5 through 9 until the blockage is cleared.

By following these ten simple steps, you can safely and effectively snake a shower drain without resorting to harsh chemicals or professional help. Regular maintenance and proper care of your drains will help prevent future clogs and keep your shower working smoothly.