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15 Best Shower Drain Hair Catchers Of 2023

Image: MomJunction Design Team

If water pools around your ankles and there’s a flood in the bathroom every time you use it, the best shower drain hair catcher is all you need to make draining easy. But clogged drains can be cumbersome and frustrating. In addition, they are a nuisance, whether there are women or men in your home, as the hair on the floor and drains can clump up to clog and cause blockages in the sewer.

This is where shower drain hair catchers come to use. They are cost-effective and simple solutions for solving the issue of hair-clogging drains and pipes. They work because they trap hair before they get into the drain. These drain hair catchers are easy to install, take off, and clean. They are also available in various colors and designs, making them a convenient and effective bathroom accessory.

If you’re looking for the best ones for your bathroom, we are here to make your stride for an unclogged drain a cakewalk. Read on and have a look at some top shower drain hair catchers and bring home the one that fits your everyday needs.

Top Picks

Best Rust-Resistant: Oxo Silicone Drain Protector

Best Colorful: Gotega Colorful Hair Catcher

Best Detachable: Lekeye Detachable Drain Defender

Best Easy-To-Install: TubShroom Bathtub Strainer And Hair Catcher

Best For Standard Drains: ShowerShroom Ultra Revolutionary Shower Strainer And Hair Catcher

Best Two-In-One: Lekeye Stopper With Drain Hair Strainer

Best Ergonomically Designed: Tub Ring Next-Generation Hair Catcher

Best Non-Slip: Shurin Square Drain Hair Catcher

Best Hassle-Free: Aojuxix Shower Drain Hair Catcher

: Best DurableXajoon Drain Hair Catcher

Types Of Drain Catchers

• Shower drain screens

These hair catchers are designed to act like a cover placed on top of the drain. It effectively stops hair and debris from entering the drain. These usually have a silicone ring around the base to ensure it seals the drain from all sides and have holes to allow water to drain as usual.

• In-drain hair catchers

These hair catchers generally consist of two parts — an outer cover and an inner receptacle that catches and traps hair and other debris. These are designed for longer-term use and have to be cleaned regularly to ensure they remain effective.

15 Best Shower Drain Hair Catchers

1)

Best Rust-Resistant: Oxo Silicone Drain Protector

4.2

Image: Oxo

BUY ON AMAZON | $11.99

Buy on Walmart

Say goodbye to clogged drains with this dome-shaped drain protector that catches hair without blocking water drainage. The edges of this drain protector sit flush with the surrounding surface to ensure no hair gets through. The silicone and stainless steel construction make this product durable and rust-resistant making it a favorite with those looking for a quick fix to the problem of frequently blocked drains. Here’s an honest review of the product.

Pros

• Fits both flat and pop-up drains
• Deep drain to catch large amounts of hair
• Easy to clean
• Easy to use and install

Cons

• May move slightly unde force
• May slow down water flow if filled completely

Price at the time of publication: $11.99

Buy on Amazon | $11.99Buy on Walmart

2) Best Colorful: Gotega Colorful Hair Catcher

Price at the time of publication: $9.99

Buy on Amazon | $9.99Buy on Walmart

These cute, colorful, and handy hair catchers come in a set of five attractive colors and can be used in multiple areas around the house, be it the bathroom, laundry, bathtub, or kitchen. Made of anti-slip thermoplastic rubber, these silicone drain protectors are convenient to use. Suitable for use over domed, flat, and open drains, these hair catchers feature small round holes to ensure drainage speed while preventing blockage. Easy to clean and remove, these aesthetically pleasing drain catchers will help keep all the drains in your home squeaky clean. Here’s a video featuring a detailed review of the product.

Pros

• Durable material
• Withstands abrasion
• Flexible
• Has a fine filter column for rapid drainage
• Non-deformable

Cons

• Suction may not be powerful enough
• May slide off

Quick tip

Clean the hair and other debris from the shower drain hair catcher on a regular basis to prevent blockage and ensure drainage speed.

Related: 8 Best Toilet Augers For Clearing The Clogged Drains In 2023

3) Best Detachable: Lekeye Detachable Drain Defender

4.4

Image: Lekeye

BUY ON AMAZON | $15. 29

Buy on Walmart

Price at the time of publication: $15.29

Buy on Amazon | $15.29Buy on Walmart

Keep ugly hair out of sight with this well-designed tub drain cover made of two parts to allow easy removal and cleaning. Designed using durable stainless steel this product is long-lasting and easy to use. This detachable drain catcher is equipped with tiny holes to catch hair and debris easily without slowing down water drainage. Easy to install with a minimalist design, it is virtually effortless to keep tangled messes at bay by simply wiping and flushing the hair regularly. This video will help you understand the product better.

Pros

• Non-slip silicone ring
• Does not clog the drain
• Basket handle for easy lift
• Rust-proof

Cons

• May not be suitable for all drain holes
• Silicone ring may be prone to wear and tear

4) Best Easy-To-Install: TubShroom Bathtub Strainer And Hair Catcher

4. 4

Image: Tubshroom

BUY ON AMAZON | $19.99

Buy on Walmart

Price at the time of publication: $19.99

Buy on Amazon | $19.99Buy on Walmart

Avoid costly plumber visits and harsh chemicals with this innovative bathtub hair catcher that promises to catch every single hair every time you take a shower. Designed to fit standard bathtub drains, this hair catcher requires no special installation and is easy to clean and maintain. It ensures that hair is neatly collected inside the drain and there’s no exposed hair in sight while you take a shower.

Pros

• Helps prevent clogging
• Catches both human and animal hair
• Sleek design
• Ensures the fast flow of water

Cons

• Might not fit all drain holes
• Chrome cap may not last long

Related: 13 Best Kitchen Sink Strainers In 2023

5) Best For Standard Drains: ShowerShroom Ultra Revolutionary Shower Strainer And Hair Catcher

4. 4

Image: Tubshroom

BUY ON AMAZON | $12.97

Buy on Walmart

Price at the time of publication: $12.97

Buy on Amazon | $12.97Buy on Walmart

Designed to fit standard shower stall drains, this shower drain strainer catches human and pet hair efficiently to ensure unsightly particles remain out of sight. The design allows hair to wrap up neatly around the cylinder, which can then be removed easily with one effortless move. Protect your pipes from damage by drain snakes and harsh liquid drain cleaners by investing in this essential bathroom accessory, making cleanup fast and easy.

Pros

• Stainless steel material
• Easy to install
• Prevents clogging of drains
• Does not disrupt the flow of water

Cons

• Might start rusting with time
• Not compatible with all drains

6) Best Two-In-One: Lekeye Stopper With Drain Hair Strainer

Price at the time of publication: $11. 89

Buy on Amazon | $11.89Buy on Walmart

The dual performer by Lekeye acts as a pop-up drain stopper and a basket filter-equipped drain hair catcher. You need to press the stopper to halt the drainage when you fill the sink or bathtub with water. To resume the water drainage, press the stopper to release the plug. It will drain the water and trap any hair or debris. The core is well-supported by a heavy-duty brass bar to keep the catcher-cum-stopper stable.

Pros

• Easy to install
• Rustproof stainless steel construction
• Leakproof
• Easy to remove and clean

Cons

• Holes may not be small enough to trap all hairs
• May be smaller than expected

7) Best Ergonomically Designed: Tub Ring Next-Generation Hair Catcher

3.8

Image: Tubring

BUY ON AMAZON | $12.99

Buy on Walmart

Price at the time of publication: $12. 99

Buy on Amazon | $12.99Buy on Walmart

Attractive and ergonomically designed, this shower strainer fits standard pop-up drain stoppers with a top cap, sized between 1.85 inches and 2.16 inches in diameter. This ring-shaped hair catcher features slot-based filtering holes that allow maximum water drainage while neatly catching every single hair. Easy to clean and maintain, this unique product remains clean and dry after every shower and is compatible with push-and-pull, lift-and-lock, and toe-touch pop-up stoppers. Say goodbye to tangled messes and icky gunk by investing in this essential bathroom accessory.

Pros

• Works great with both human and pet hair
• Requires no installation
• Provides a snug fit
• Flexible and easy to use

Cons

• May slow down the water flow
• May require frequent cleaning

Quick tip

Make sure that the drain pipes are clog-free and that the central rim blade goes underneath the rim of the stopper while installing this hair catcher.

8) Best Non-Slip: Shurin Square Drain Hair Catcher

Price at the time of publication: $7.99

Buy on Amazon | $7.99

Here’s an easy and practical solution to protect your drains against clogging from debris and hair. Made of thermoplastic rubber material, this premium flat silicone bath hair trap is a versatile accessory that fits most shower drains and can also be used in the kitchen. The slip-free design features four suction cups on the bottom of the drain cover to prevent any sliding or slipping on a wet floor.

Pros

• Sturdy and flexible
• Easy installation
• Easy to clean
• Dries off quickly
• Does not slow down the water flow
• Provides good coverage

Cons

• Might require frequent repositioning on mosaic tiles
• May be prone to developing mildew

9) Best Hassle-Free: Aojuxix Shower Drain Hair Catcher

Price at the time of publication: $12. 99

Buy on Amazon | $12.99

If you don’t want to bother with the hassle of cleaning drains regularly, this product is an ideal choice. Suitable for both square and round drains, this shower hair catcher is made of a high-quality zinc alloy material. A soft silicone rim ensures there’s no gap, and small thick holes work effectively to block human and pet hair. This product requires no installation and can be placed on top of the drain to act as a cover and an effective bathroom hair catcher.

Pros

• Stainless steel material
• Rust-resistant chrome plating
• Sleek design
• Sturdy and durable quality
• Weighted material to keep it in place

Cons

• Might be difficult to clean the silicone rim
• May not have adequate suction

10) Best Durable: Xajoon Drain Hair Catcher

Price at the time of publication: $16.99

Buy on Amazon | $16.99

Say hello to clean, hassle-free shower drains with this durable and fashionable step-shaped drain cover. This hair catcher slows down the water flow speed from fast to slow so that it effectively collects all the hair and debris. The innovative counterweight design allows it to sit flush on the drain and seal it securely, thus protecting the drain from clogging. Consisting of a soft silicone outer ring and a high-quality metal structure, this product requires no installation.

Pros

• Fits flat and pop-up drains
• Stays in place
• Prevents water accumulation
• Works both for human and pet hair
• Long-lasting quality
• Convenient to use

Cons

• Might be difficult to clean
• May not be compatible with tub stoppers

11) Best Stable: Aluvor Drain Hair Catcher

Price at the time of publication: $13.99

Buy on Amazon | $13.99Buy on Walmart

With its top made of premium zinc alloy, the edge of Aluvor’s drain catcher is made of a silicone ring that prevents slipping.  Its design enables the silicone to trap the hair around the edges while the zinc alloy portion remains hair-free to facilitate continuous and quick water drainage without restriction. The dome-shaped drain cover is weighted to keep it from moving even when the pressure or water speed is high. Its wide diameter ensures it fits almost all sinks and drains effortlessly.

Pros

• Easy to clean
• Durable and long-lasting
• Rust-proof
• Tool-free installation

Cons

• May not have enough holes
• Silicone parts may not be stain-proof

Quick tip

If you do not have the time to clean the drain hair catcher frequently, look for disposable and biodegradable hair catchers to save you the time and effort of maintaining it.

12)

Best With Perforation Holes: Mftek Stainless Steel Drain Hair Catcher

Price at the time of publication: $14. 99

Buy on Amazon | $14.99Buy on Walmart

If you’re looking for a one-stop solution to prevent clogged drains in different areas of your house, your search ends here. This drain catcher is suitable for kitchen sinks, bathtubs, hand basins, and showers to ensure adequate protection against unsightly hair and debris. It consists of two parts, a non-slip outer ring, and an inner basket design to make sure not a single hair goes through. High-density perforation holes allow efficient water drainage, and the detachable design makes this hair stopper easy to clean and maintain.

Pros

• Made of 304-grade stainless steel material
• Easy-to-detach basket handle
• Non-slip silicone seal
• Rust- and corrosion-resistant
• Anti-clogging holes
• Sturdy and durable quality

Cons

• Might not fit angled drains
• May not trap fine hairs

13) Best Easy-To-Clean: Hairbine Drain Hair Catcher

Price at the time of publication: $14. 96

Buy on Amazon | $14.96Buy on Walmart

Take a look at this clear silicone shower drain hair catcher that effectively blocks hair and debris from clogging your drains without altering the look of your tub. This product fits a standard 2.5-inch pop-up drain and allows easy installation and removal. Clean-up is a breeze with this ergonomic hair catcher, and the hydrodynamic design ensures quick water drainage. Say goodbye to inconvenient clogged drains and expensive plumber visits with this deceptively simple product.

Pros

• Works great for human and pet hair
• Low profile to avoid kicking hazard
• Long-lasting elastic material
• Stays in place
• Soft material avoids damage to the tub
• Dishwasher safe

Cons

• Groovy design may need frequent cleaning
• May create slight water stagnation

14) Best Disposable Solution: Dogxiong Flower Bathroom Drain Hair Catcher

Price at the time of publication: $9. 99

Buy on Amazon | $9.99

These flower-shaped shower hair catchers are so pretty that we’re sure you’ll want them all over your house. Available in a pack of ten, the design features a plastic flower cap and a stainless steel string with silicone grips that go down the drain. The silicone grips catch hair and prevent it from clogging your drains. Once every three to four months, simply pull out the string using the plastic flower cap and throw the entire unit into the dustbin. Easy to install and remove, these are the perfect disposable solution for those who don’t want the hassle of regular cleanups.

Pros

• Universally compatible design
• Does not require frequent cleaning
• Hygienic solution
• Effectively traps all the hair
• Ensures fast water flow

Cons

• May form rust over time
• May break down into the pipe

15)

Best One With Rubber Whiskers: Brccee Disposable Flower Drain Hair Catcher

Price at the time of publication: $5. 99

Buy on Amazon | $5.99

If you never want to clean a clogged drain ever again, here’s the ideal disposable solution. Made of high-quality materials, this hair strainer features a plastic flower-shaped drain wig, a stainless steel chain, and rubber whiskers that catch pipe-clogging hair before it becomes a problem. This ingenious product allows you to remove hair without touching it and can be used in bathtubs, kitchen sinks, showers, and laundry rooms. Available in a convenient pack of ten, these hair catchers are a fast and easy solution to keep your drains hair-free.

Pros

• Easy to install and remove
• Compatible with different drain models
• Prevents clogging
• Effectively traps all the hair

Cons

• May break down into the pipe
• Might need frequent replacements

How To Choose The Best Shower Drain Hair Catcher

• Material

There are quite a few material options to consider when picking an ideal drain hair catcher. Silicone hair catchers are non-slip, easy to clean, and offer good flexibility. Another material that is commonly found in hair catchers is stainless steel. Durable, rust-resistant, and non-corrosive — these are a great option for hair catchers meant for long-term use. Disposable hair catchers often feature plastic which is more cost-effective but can get a bit worn-out after use.

• Mechanism

Hair catchers employ various mechanisms to ensure pipe-clogging hair remains out of drains. Some hair catchers act as drain covers and are simply placed on top of drains to keep them clear of hair and debris. Others have a plug-type mechanism and collect hair out of sight under a cover. Before picking a hair catcher, check if it is compatible with the type of shower drain you have.

• Color

If you don’t want your drain hair catcher to mess up the aesthetics of your bathroom decor, make sure to pick a color that matches your hardware well. Silicone hair catchers often come in bright colors, whereas stainless steel hair catchers have a more muted look. If you don’t want your hair catcher to be visible, look for a clear and transparent one.

Why Trust MomJunction?

We have compiled the best options in the market for shower drain hair catchers based on their quality, features, and material. These products have been chosen because of their high ratings by consumers posted on reliable forums. The drain hair catchers are a simple solution to prevent your drains and pipes from getting clogged. This article also explains the types of shower drain hair catchers available and how to choose the right one for your requirements.

How do you clean a hair catcher in the shower?

This depends on the type of hair catcher you use and most come with simple instructions on how to clean. Generally, most hair catchers need to be unscrewed and then can simply be wiped clean. Once clean and dry, you can place your hair catcher back in the drain.

Is there a drain cleaner that dissolves hair?

There are liquid drain cleaners available in the market that need to be poured down drains and are powerful enough to dissolve hair and other pipe-clogging debris. These are very strong and are not recommended for regular use as they damage and corrode pipes. For day-to-day use, it is better to install a simple drain hair catcher that prevents hair from entering drains in the first place.

One of the worst things that can happen to the drainage system in your house is getting clogged up with hair. With the best shower drain hair catchers installed, you won’t have to worry about clogged pipes as this simple device will filter out water and other tiny particles while blocking the hair from entering the drain. The options listed here are constructed with different high-quality materials to keep them from rusting or deforming over time. You can pick the right one for your bathroom by considering factors such as the functioning mechanism, material, and color of the catcher, which can be fun to match with the theme of the space.

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• Author

Top 5 Best Shower Hair Traps (Review 2021)

Nobody likes to pull their hair out of the shower and tub sink. The good news is that there is a special device for trapping hair before it clogs your drain: shower hair traps.

With this tool, hair strands, soap residue and other debris are collected before they can damage your pipes. Shower drain catchers are usually a bowl or bowl that fits under the plunger and into the shower drain. It has a small hole through which water, soap, including shampoo, move freely, trapping hair and other residues in the bathroom. This is absolutely essential for those who have a small drainage ditch that can be seriously clogged with tangled hair.

So if you’re tired of a clogged shower drain due to nasty strands of hair, we’ve put together a little information and advice you’ll need before buying a shower hair trap. Our team of experts assist us in evaluating and analyzing all the products on the market, so we are more than confident that we have selected the best options for you. Also, don’t forget to click the buttons below to see which Amazon deals are right for you!

Compare and rank the best shower drain traps

1. OXO Good Grips

Silicone Protector for Drain and Bathtub Specifications:

98% Total

quality 9 0003

costs

features

ease of use

Pros :

• Offers a two-piece set that includes 1 OXO Good Grips silicone drain nozzle for pop-up and conventional sinks and 1 protective bath waste nozzle OXO Good Grips.
• Its drain guard features a tall, domed, universal design that covers both flat and pop-up drains.
• The drain has a scale so that it can catch the hair efficiently and effectively and the water drains off.
• Traps hair without blocking water flow and prevents items from falling into the sink.
• Made of stainless steel and silicone.
• The edges of the bathtub drain guard are parallel to the floor, preventing hair from entering.
• Highlights rust resistant stainless steel bathtub drain protection.

Cons:

• The base of this shower head hair trap is covered in small bumps that can be difficult to remove.

Final take:

OXO Good Grips 2-in-1 Silicone Drain and Tub Protector keeps drains clean and free of debris. The high domed gutter protector covers both flat and retractable gutters and traps hair without interfering with water drainage. It’s made of silicone with a balanced stainless steel edge to keep it in place over the sink, and it’s edges are aligned with the tub so hair doesn’t get in. On the other hand, it comes with a stainless steel bathtub drain protector that perfectly protects the bathtub drain. The hole pattern on the bathtub drain stopper effectively removes hair while allowing water to drain. It is held in place by a silicone rim that prevents it from slipping.

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2. Revolutionary TubShroom Drainage Protector to trap hair.

Specifications:

97% Total

9014 6

Available in white, blue, green, gray and orange.

quality

cost

features

ease of use

Pros :

• Fits a regular 1.5″ to 1.75″ bathtub drain and has been proven to permanently trap hair.
• Highlights the characteristic mushroom structure for maximum water flow.
• Shroom’s patented design has already been installed in over two million gutters.
• Made from durable industrial silicone for durability.
• Awarded the 2018 KBB Product Innovator Award in the home & bathroom category.
• The hair is well collected in the drain, which is completely invisible on the lower lip.
• Extremely easy to use and clean.

Cons:

• The hair caught in the catcher is a bit difficult to remove.

Final take:

With this award-winning TubShroom Revolutionary Drain Protector, you can say goodbye to potentially dangerous cleaners, expensive plumbers and clogged drains forever! It seems to be placed in the sewer, keeping particles, soap and most of the hair inside. It consists of small holes that allow water to flow flexibly through the cylinder and the caps around them. It blends seamlessly into your shower stall drain, effectively trapping almost any hair that tends to fall to the bottom of your helpless drain. This is the bathroom savior you’ve been waiting for. It is ideal for all hair types, so you can be sure of its effectiveness.

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3. Gotega Hair Catcher

Specifications:

96% Total

quality

cost

function

ease of use

Pros :

• Made from lightweight thermoplastic rubber that is anti-slip, flexible and abrasion resistant, incredibly durable, and made from high quality durable and deformable silicone.
• Provides a set of colorful hair traps.
• Fits 4.7″ downpipe and below.
• Its innovative round hole design is designed for easy drain cleaning. Simply place the drain hair trap in a suitable sink, even while cleaning, collect the clump from the collector and start removing hair.
• Ideal for use in the bathroom, laundry, bath and kitchen.
• Suitable for light dome guttering, smooth guttering, and open guttering.

Cons:

• It picks up just about anything, but it clogs easily and won’t drain unless you clean it up in the shower.
• It fits the drain very well, but does not fit exactly around the drain. It looks like the silicone is a little tucked in over the edge of the trap. This is not a problem with small stocks, but you may find it difficult to handle large stocks.

Final take:

The Gotega Hair Catcher has structured round holes that effectively block hair and other debris, allowing water to drain quickly. The design of this drain filter increases the flow of drain fluid and accelerates drainage more efficiently than standard drain traps. Thus, even when the hair gets stuck in the trap, the hole size of this hair trap is good and it will not stop the drainage activity. It is made of lightweight TPR silicone, soft, durable and aesthetic.

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4. Uxoz Hair Drainage Catcher

Specifications:

94% Total

quality

900 08 cost

features

ease of use

Pros :

• Made of high quality stainless steel reinforced with silicone, which ensures high strength and long service life.
• Its fixed tripod top is larger than a tube, and its standard hexagonal honeycomb design provides the best grip.
• Supplied with four different size rubber rings to fit most bathroom sinks and drains.
• Installation is as easy as choosing the right rubber ring for your drain.
• Non-slip, keeps hair and dirt from clogging the drain.
• Gives your bathroom a radiant look while adding an element of style.

Cons:

• Does not support drains larger than 1.42″.
• The elasticity of the rubber ring will deteriorate over time and may need to be replaced.

Final take:

Uxoz Drain Hair Catcher is a one of a kind product that combines consistency, performance, elegance and style. With 304 stainless steel mesh filter and zinc alloy cap, this product will last for years. It comes with 4 rubber bands that allow you to adjust it according to the channel. Installing the dryer will only take a few seconds. All you have to do is put tape under the cylinder and place the mushroom in the drain. The cap will hang over the drain, giving it a clean yet chic look. Please note that to prevent clogging of the trap, the manufacturer recommends cleaning it every 2-4 days.

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5. LEKEYE Drainage Hair Catcher

Specifications:

93% Total

quality

cost

9 0008 features

easy to use

Pros :

• which consists of two parts and is easy to install and clean.
• Made from rust resistant stainless steel and can withstand countless showers without any damage.
• Retractable with small openings that grip the hair comfortably without obstructing the flow of water and easily prevent materials from falling into the sink.
• Compatible with most shower and bath drains.
• The perforation pattern of its drainage protector traps all types of hair and prevents tiny particles from entering the tubes.
• Includes finger lift basket handle for easy installation, removal and cleaning.

Cons:

• Not adjacent to the drain, so may leave a gap for a slightly curved tub; not suitable for pop-up bathrooms.
• This shower hair trap has slightly larger openings than other hair trap and may let some hair through.

Final take:

Thanks to the LEKEYE Drain Hair Catcher, you can finally say goodbye to clogged drains! Its classic removable hair catcher fits many toilet drains snugly and flawlessly, it can catch all the hairs that didn’t go down the drain without obstructing the water flow. Installation is simple and therefore won’t take more than a few minutes. During cleaning, you just need to take a small handle over the cylinder and pull the trap from the drain. Thus, this makes it a handy shower drain hair catcher. Likewise, it feels solid and durable in addition to being comfortable to use. The inner edges of the drain/trap are coated with silicone while the entire material is made of stainless steel which is resistant to corrosion and rust. With this drain hair trap, you will enjoy new shower life without clogging.

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What is the Purpose of the Drain Trap? 💡 Home renovation | HomeInteriorz.com

• Strange Smells
• Trap Location
• Trap Care

shaped, emerging from the drainage holes. This is drain trap . It might seem like a strange name for a plumbing part until you understand the part’s function.

The Drain Trap is designed to hold a small amount of water each time the sink runs out, and this water at the bottom of the curved part of the trap seals the drain and keeps sewer gases from leaking and entering your home.

There are traps in every drain because any connection that leads to a drainage system is also a possible outlet for sewer gas. Even your toilet has an internal trap shape in its porcelain configuration that performs exactly the same function.

Strange odors

Whenever you encounter a strange smell in any room that has a drain, always make sure the trap is not dry. If the drain trap is dry, the sewer gas can fail and cause an odor. This is usually a quick fix that can be fixed by running water down the drain and filling the trap with water. Sewer gas is hydrogen sulfide, which is formed during the decay of organic waste. The smell is mostly irritating, and while it is possible that a very high concentration could cause health problems, this is not very likely.

Trap location

The location of the drain trap is often obvious. For example, standing water in your toilet indicates the presence of a drain trap.

If you look at the back of the toilet, you will see the curved shape of the drain through which the water exits.

Other plumbing fixtures have a drain trap in a place that can be accessed, such as a kitchen or bathroom sink, where the trap is usually hidden in a cupboard under the sink. When you look at a sink you can’t see standing water, but if you keep an eye on the drain lines you can see the required U or S shape where the water is held back to block sewer gas.

Sink traps have the added benefit of trapping small items that have fallen into the drain, plus they are fairly easy to remove. Don’t worry if you drop a ring or something of value down the drain – it’s probably safe to be trapped. The traps also collect hair, sand, and other detritus, as well as limiting the size of items that can get through to the rest of the plumbing. You can remove most traps for cleaning, or they may have their own cleaning function.

Large plumbing fixtures such as showers, bathtubs and washing machine drains also have drain traps but are not easily seen because they are below floor level or behind walls. Bathtubs and showers have traps that are harder to reach and either require crawling under the house or cutting a hole behind the tub or shower and digging out the area where the trap is located. Washing machine drain traps are mostly found in the wall and you usually have to cut into the wall to access them.

Trap Maintenance

All drains should be used at least once every two weeks to conserve water in the traps. This includes showers, toilets, bathtubs, showers, bathroom sinks, kitchen sinks, washing machines and more. It won’t hurt anything to let the trap dry, but you may end up with some unwanted odors creeping into your home.