A blocked or grimy shower drain cover is one of the most common household maintenance issues, and the good news is that removing and cleaning it is well within most homeowners' abilities. With a few basic tools and about 20–30 minutes, you can have your drain flowing freely again — no tradesperson required for this part of the job.
What You'll Need
Gather these items before you start:
- Flathead screwdriver or Phillips head screwdriver (check which type your drain cover uses)
- Needle-nose pliers
- Old toothbrush or small scrubbing brush
- Rubber gloves
- Bucket or old cloth
- Baking soda and white vinegar, or a bathroom cleaning spray
- Paper towels or rags
Some drain covers simply lift out by hand or with a gentle pry, while others are secured with one or two screws. Have both screwdriver types handy just in case.
Step 1 – Identify Your Drain Cover Type
NZ showers typically have one of three drain cover styles:
| Type | How It's Secured | Removal Method |
|---|---|---|
| Snap-in / push-fit | Friction fit, no screws | Pry up gently with a flathead screwdriver |
| Screw-fixed | One or two screws visible | Unscrew with appropriate screwdriver |
| Tile-in / recessed | Flush with tile, may have hidden screws | Check edges carefully; some twist anti-clockwise |
If you're unsure, check the manufacturer's instructions or look up the brand name stamped on the cover.
Step 2 – Remove the Drain Cover
- Put on your rubber gloves — drain covers harbour bacteria and can have sharp edges.
- If screws are present, remove them and place them somewhere safe (a small cup works well so they don't go down the drain).
- For snap-in covers, insert a flathead screwdriver into one of the drain slots and gently lever upward. Work around the edges evenly to avoid cracking the cover or surrounding tiles.
- Lift the cover clear and set it aside.
Tip: If the cover is stuck due to soap scum build-up, pour a little warm water around the edges and wait a minute before trying again. Avoid forcing it — cracked drain covers or damaged tiles can become a more expensive problem.
Step 3 – Clear the Drain Opening
Once the cover is off, you'll likely find a build-up of hair, soap scum, and biofilm just below the surface. This is the most common cause of slow-draining showers.
- Use needle-nose pliers or a drain hair tool (available at Bunnings or Mitre 10) to pull out any hair clumps.
- Dispose of the debris in the bin — not back down the drain.
- If there's a removable hair trap or basket inside the drain body, lift it out and clean it separately.
For a natural drain freshen-up, pour half a cup of baking soda down the drain, follow with half a cup of white vinegar, let it fizz for 10–15 minutes, then flush with hot (not boiling) water. This helps break down soap residue and reduces odour without harsh chemicals.
Step 4 – Clean the Drain Cover
- Take the cover to a sink or outside area.
- Rinse off loose debris under running water.
- Scrub all surfaces — including the underside and any slots — with an old toothbrush and bathroom cleaner or a baking soda paste.
- For stubborn soap scum or mineral deposits (common in areas with harder water), soak the cover in a 50/50 white vinegar and water solution for 15–30 minutes before scrubbing.
- Rinse thoroughly and dry with a cloth.
Check the cover for damage while you have it out — cracks, sharp edges, or missing sections should be addressed. A damaged cover can be a safety hazard, particularly for children.
Step 5 – Refit the Drain Cover
- Ensure the drain opening and surrounding area are clean and dry before refitting.
- For screw-fixed covers, hand-tighten screws first, then snug them up with a screwdriver — don't overtighten, as this can crack plastic covers or strip threads.
- For snap-in covers, align and press down firmly until you feel or hear it click into place.
- Run the shower briefly to confirm water drains freely and the cover sits flush.
Keeping Your Drain Clear Long-Term
- Install a hair catcher over or inside the drain — these are inexpensive and dramatically reduce blockages.
- Give the drain cover a quick clean every 2–4 weeks as part of your bathroom routine.
- Flush the drain with hot water after each shower to help shift soap residue.
- Avoid pouring oils, thick conditioners, or grease down the shower drain.
Under the Healthy Homes Standards, rental properties must have functional drainage — landlords should ensure drains are maintained and clear.
When to Call a Professional
Removing and cleaning a drain cover is not restricted work and is safe for homeowners to do themselves. However, call a licensed drain cleaner or plumber if:
- The blockage is deeper in the pipe and doesn't clear with basic methods.
- You notice gurgling sounds, bad smells from multiple fixtures, or slow drainage throughout the house — these can indicate a blocked main drain or a venting issue.
- The drain body, waste fitting, or pipework appears damaged or corroded.
- Water is backing up into other fixtures.
Any work involving the alteration or repair of drain pipework is restricted work under the Plumbers, Gasfitters, and Drainlayers Act and must be carried out by a licensed professional registered with the Plumbers Gasfitters & Drainlayers Board.
You can find qualified, local drain cleaners and plumbers on tradedirectory.co.nz.
Master Plumbers
Certifying Plumber
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