With regular use, the drains in your home can become clogged with clumps of hair, causing drainage issues and unpleasant odors. However, not all drain cleaners are well-equipped to clear and break up difficult hair clogs.
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. For a fast-acting product that tackles your backed-up pipes, this list includes some of the best drain cleaners for hair.
- BEST OVERALL: Liquid Clog Remover By Green Gobbler
- RUNNER-UP: Whink 6217 Hair Clog Blaster!
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Drano Max Gel Drain Clog Remover and Cleaner
- BEST NATURAL: Bio-Clean Drain Septic Bacteria
- BEST FAST-ACTING: Professor Amos’ SuperFast 2-Pack Drain Cleaner
- BEST SNAKE DRAIN: FlexiSnake Drain Weasel Sink Snake Drain Clog Remover Kit
- BEST HAIR CLOG PREVENTER: TubShroom the Revolutionary Tub Drain Protector
- BEST ODORLESS: THRIFT FBA_T-600 T-600 Granular Drain Cleaner
Types of Drain Cleaners
When shopping for the best drain cleaner for hair, there are multiple options. Several kinds of drain cleaners, including liquids, gels, powders, and drain snakes, are in today’s marketplace. While all these types of drain cleaners can help solve your plumbing issues, they work differently, depending on the drainage issue and individual preference.
Liquids
Liquid drain cleaners, a common solution to quickly dissolve a pesky drain blockage, typically combine bleach and lye to create liquid with natural enzymes or corrosive chemicals that dissolve or loosen hair clogs. Use liquid drain cleaners to break up minor hair blocks when they begin to form. They’re usually slightly less expensive than gel drain cleaners. Store drain cleaners, including liquid varieties, out of the reach of young children or pets.
Gels
Made with a formula similar to a liquid drain cleaner, gel drain cleaners contain an additional thickening agent. 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 that’s stuck to pipe walls. Gel also is better at attaching to the hair that causes clogs, dissolving it more quickly than most liquids. Overall, a gel drain cleaner is more efficient than a liquid cleaner at breaking up a tough hair clog, but it can be more expensive.
Powders and Granules
Granular and powder drain cleaners have a dry consistency. After pouring a scoop of the cleaner down the drain, flush the drain with water to cut through grease and hair. When hot or cold water comes into contact with the powder, the chemical agents are activated to dissolve grime and hair buildup. Powders and granules are best for flushing away the grease and oils that coat pipes that catch hair. They also can be a good option for tackling clumps of hair in the drain.
Pods
Another type of drain cleaner, pods are similar to laundry or dishwashing detergent pods. The cleaning agent is wrapped in a thin shell that dissolves when it comes into contact with water. Most pods are better at deodorizing a drain than unclogging it, and in fact, they may exacerbate a blockage if it’s severe. Drain-cleaning pods are best for pipe maintenance after a clog has been dislodged to help create a fresh scent and deter the residual buildup that’s responsible for trapping hair in pipes.
Drain Snake
A drain snake is a long tool designed to take out the physical material that’s clogging your drain. To use a drain snake, first feed it into the pipe until it meets resistance. Next, use the handle to rotate the tool, breaking up the clog, or grabbing it. After the clog seems to be weakening, pull up the snake along with the clog out of your pipe. Lastly, run hot water to drain away anything that remains. Repeat the process as often as necessary to completely unclog a pipe.
Drain snakes may take care of smaller clogs without the use of another type of drain cleaner. Environmentally-conscious consumers, in particular, may want to try to clear their clogs with a drain snake before trying other methods. 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.
What to Consider When Choosing the Best Drain Cleaner for Hair
The different types of drain cleaners aren’t the only shopping considerations. 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. Before you make your own drain cleaner, consider some of the most important features to consider.
Organic vs. Chemical
Drain cleaners for hair clogs usually fall into one of two categories: organic or chemical. This distinction refers to the active ingredients in the drain cleaner that dissolve or break up clogs.
An organic or natural drain cleaner is typically enzyme-based, and it utilizes bacteria to break down organic proteins, including hair, mildew, and food particles. They don’t contain harsh chemicals and are less corrosive than chemical drain cleaners. While natural enzyme drain cleaners are less toxic, they also are typically less powerful and slower at breaking up hair clogs.
Chemical drain cleaners are either alkaline-based, with ingredients such as sodium hydroxide (lye) and potassium hydroxide (caustic potash); or acid-based, with high concentrations of sulfuric acid (oil of vitriol). Both types of drain cleaners can dissolve hair in pipes. Chemical drain cleaners are more corrosive; in fact, they may eventually damage your plumbing if used frequently or in large amounts. They must be safely handled and carefully stored.
Working Time
Every drain cleaner has a prescribed working time that dictates how long the product needs to sit in the pipes before it’s flushed or washed away. Working time can vary, depending on the type of drain cleaner and the severity of the clog.
The product’s label indicates how long to wait for the drain cleaner to work. It can be as short as 15 to 20 minutes, but sometimes, the manufacturer recommends letting the cleaner remain undisturbed in the pipe overnight. Chemical gels and liquids usually have a shorter working time compared to natural enzyme cleaners.
Odor Removal
If hair or another substance has blocked the drain for a long time, the drain may have an unpleasant odor. This odor is caused by bacteria that grows in the dirt and hair stuck in the pipes. Most drain cleaners also effectively eliminate the odors associated with clogs as they dissolve and flush away the debris.
However, some drain cleaners emit unpleasant fumes as they work. If sensitivity to odors is a concern, look for an odorless drain cleaner designed to eliminate the odor.
Application
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. A drain snake can break up the biggest blocks and prime your pipes for the second step: drain cleaner.
With the exception of the drain snake, the application process for most drain cleaners is quite similar. First, read the directions on the label. Many cleaners recommend safety goggles or gloves to protect your eyes and skin during use. The label also should tell you how much cleaner to use based on the type of drain that needs unblocking.
After you pour in the correct amount of gel, liquid, or powder, wait the recommended time for the cleaner to break up the clog. The last step in clearing a clog is to flush your pipes with either hot or cold water, as directed. Difficult blockages may require more than one application.
Our Top Picks
Now that you’ve learned how the different types of drain cleaners work on clogs, it’s time to start shopping. Keep reading to find a list of some of the best drain cleaners for hair clogs.
Photo: walmart.com
Green Gobbler Liquid Clog Remover is a non-corrosive liquid drain cleaner that doesn’t damage pipes or septic systems, but works hard to dislodge pesky clogs. Formulated with fewer harsh chemicals than most cleaners, it’s safer for you and your home’s plumbing. This liquid clog remover cuts through the hair that can build up in the shower, sink, and toilet.
Pour 1 quart of Green Gobbler drain cleaner slowly down the drain; it usually takes at least two hours to unclog the hair. To maximize the unclogging action, you may want to wait overnight before flushing with hot water.
Product Specs
- Type: Liquid
- Working Time: 2 hours
- Odor Removing: No
Pros
- Ample quantity provided
- Non-corrosive on metal pipes or septic systems
- Suitable for use in showers, sinks, and toilets
Cons
- May need to be left overnight
Get the Green Gobbler drain cleaner at Walmart and The Home Depot.
Photo: amazon.com
Whink Hair Clog Blaster’s liquid drain opener can pass through standing water to target difficult hair clogs and break them down quickly. Thoroughly shake the closed drain cleaner container, and slowly pour 8 to 10 ounces of Hair Clog Blaster into the blocked drain. Let it sit for 15 to 30 minutes before flushing with hot water. Repeat as necessary to fully dislodge the hair clog.
For difficult blockages, the drain cleaner may need to sit overnight. Safe for pipes and septic systems, this cleaner is designed for bathroom sinks and shower drains. It’s not recommended for toilets, garbage disposals, or dishwashers. Wear thick rubber gloves during application.
Product Specs
- Type: Liquid
- Working Time: 15 to 30 minutes
- Odor Removing: No
Pros
- Septic- and metal pipe-safe
- Enough quantity for multiple drains
- Safe to use on sinks and shower drains
Cons
- May need to sit overnight for tough clogs
- Not suitable for toilets, garbage disposals, or dishwashers
- Gloves recommended during use
Get the Whink blaster! at Amazon, Sears, and Walmart.
Photo: amazon.com
Drano’s Max Gel Drain Clog Remover utilizes bleach to clean and clear pipes. The thick gel consistency adheres better to dirty surfaces to dissolve hair and soap scum. The gel is heavy enough to move through standing water to get to the source of the block. Drano Max Gel may break up small hair clogs in 7 minutes, but leave it for at least 30 minutes for better results. Although it’s composed of corrosive chemicals, it should be safe for most pipes and to leave in pipes overnight.
Product Specs
- Type: Gel
- Working Time: 7 to 30 minutes
- Odor Removing: No
Pros
- Safe for use on PVC, metal, garbage disposals, and septic systems
- Thick gel consistency
- Dissolves hair and soap scum
- Safe for most pipes
Cons
- Made with harsh chemicals
- Should not be used in toilets
Get the Drano Max gel at Amazon, Sears, and Walmart.
Photo: amazon.com
By using natural enzymes that digest clog-causing proteins, Bio-Clean’s powder drain cleaner is a safe way to clean and maintain pipes, drains, and septic systems. Bio-Clean’s formula includes no harsh or dangerous chemicals, which means that it’s skin- and pipe-friendly. This natural cleaner can get rid of hair clogs and even liquefy some paper products.
After dissolving the powder in warm water, pour the mixture into the drain. Wait for at least 6 to 8 hours before flushing with water. As a natural drain cleaner, this product isn’t as fast-acting as some of the alternatives, but it’s a natural choice for your home.
Product Specs
- Type: Powder
- Working Time: 6 to 8 hours
- Odor Removing: No
Pros
- Natural formula
- Safe for skin, pipes, drains, and septic systems
- Works on hair clogs and paper products
- Fast-acting formula
Cons
- Longer working time compared to similar options
- Requires mixing before use
- Pricey
Get the Bio-Clean bacteria on Amazon and at Walmart.
Photo: amazon.com
Professor Amos’ SuperFast Drain Cleaner is a commercial-grade, excellent option for those who need their pipes unclogged fast. After pouring it slowly down the drain, wait for 15 minutes, and flush with hot water. If your clog persists, the company recommends repeating the process. This drain cleaner is formulated to dissolve difficult hair clogs caused by pets or long hair. It’s safe for all types of pipes, including PVC, copper, and steel.
Product Specs
- Type: Liquid
- Working Time: 15 minutes
- Odor Removing: Yes
Pros
- Commercial-strength formula
- Safe to use on PVC, copper, and steel pipes
- Removes hair clogs and odors
- Ample quantity provided
Cons
- May not be safe for dishwashers, toilets, and garbage disposals
Get the Professor Amos’ drain cleaner on Amazon.
Photo: amazon.com
One of the quickest ways to remove a hair clog is with a drain snake. The Drain Weasel’s 360-degree rotating handle spins an 18-inch wand tipped with strong micro hooks to grab clogged hair. After inserting the rod, spin the hooks and pull up the debris. Five disposable wands come with the Drain Weasel.
Product Specs
- Type: Snake
- Working Time: Immediate
- Odor Removing: No
Pros
- 360-degree rotating handle
- 18-inch length
- Strong micro hooks
- 5 units provided
Cons
- Some users report limited durability or ineffectual use
Get the FlexiSnake remover kit at Amazon, Sears, and Walmart.
Photo: amazon.com
The TubShroom Tub Drain Protector is an in-drain hair catcher with a unique design. Its functional mushroom-shape catcher keeps unsightly trapped hair inside the drain making an excellent preventative cleaner for hair.
As hair reaches the drain, the TubShroom catches the strands. The hairs wrap neatly around the base, keeping trapped hair not only out of sight but out of the plumbing. The mushroom design allows for easy removal and cleaning; just grab the top and pull it out of the drain. A quick swipe with a paper towel is usually enough to remove the hair.
The TubShroom is easy to install and fits standard bathroom tub drains with a 1.5- to 1.75-inch diameter. With a snug design that doesn’t interrupt water flow, it works on both human and pet hair to keep your drain clog-free.
Product Specs
- Type: Hair catcher
- Working Time: Immediate
- Odor Removing: No
Pros
- Easy to install
- Fit in most drains
- Easy to remove hair after use
- Comes in multiple colors
- Doesn’t interrupt water flow
Cons
- May be tricky to remove hair that has become knotted
Get the TubShroom drain protector at Amazon, Sears, and Walmart.
Photo: amazon.com
Without the fumes that many chemical drain cleaners produce, Thrift’s alkaline drain cleaner clears hair clogs by liquefying the hair. Thrift’s 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.
This product is intended for use in sinks, tubs, and shower drains. However, it’s not designed to be used in toilets or sink disposals. Thrift requires careful storage, and users should wear protective goggles and gloves during application.
Product Specs
- Type: Powder
- Working Time: 1 minute
- Odor Removing: No
Pros
- Liquifies hair, grime, and sludge
- Odorless formula
- Suitable for sinks, tubs, and showers
Cons
- Not suitable for toilets or garbage disposals
- Gloves and eyewear recommended while using
- Needs to be stored carefully
Get the Thrift FBA drain cleaner at Amazon, Sears, and Walmart.
Our Verdict
When you have clogged drains, we recommend the Green Gobbler drain cleaner. This heavy-duty drain cleaner removes clogs in just 2 hours and is safe for all drains and septic systems. Alternatively, for a budget-friendly option, the Drano Max Gel works in just 7 to 30 minutes, dissolves hair and soap scum, and is safe to use on PVC, metal, garbage disposals, and septic systems.
How We Chose the Best Drain Cleaners for Hair
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.
While searching for the best drain cleaners for hair, the most popular types among users were the liquid, gel, powder, snake, and catcher options which catch or dissolve hair immediately or up to 8 hours after application. Many of these options are safe to use on copper, stainless steel, and other metal pipes, while select picks can also be used on PVC and plastic. Plus, many of the drain cleaners on this list are safe to use for clogs in sinks, showers, tubs, toilets, and garbage disposals.
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.
FAQs
If you still have questions about the best drain cleaners for hair clogs, this section may help. Find the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about drain cleaners for hair clogs here.
Q: Why does hair clog drains?
Hair gets stuck in drains when the insides of the pipes become coated with soap scum, grease, and oils. When hair flows down the drain, this coating is “tacky,” so hair sticks and slowly collects until a clog forms.
Q: How do I stop my hair from clogging the drain?
The best way to stop a hair clog from forming is to use a drain cover. Routine cleaning and maintenance help prevent sticky grime and sludge from coating the walls of pipes.
Q: Will shaving in the shower clog the drain?
Shaving can cause or exacerbate a clog, especially if you use a thick shaving cream or high-lather soap. When you shave, rinse with hot water to help dissolve the soap residue left behind.
