The most effective way to keep hair out of your drain is to install a hair catcher.
Understanding the Problem
Hair accumulation is a common cause of clogged drains. When hair enters your drain, it can tangle and bind with other debris, forming a stubborn blockage. This can slow down water drainage and potentially cause backups and plumbing issues.
The Solution: Hair Catchers
Hair catchers are devices designed to prevent hair from entering the drain. They typically fit inside or over the drain opening and are designed to allow water to pass through while trapping hair.
Types of Hair Catchers
There are various types of hair catchers available, including:
- Mesh Strainers: These are simple, inexpensive strainers that sit inside the drain. They feature small holes that allow water to flow through while catching hair and larger debris.
- Silicone Hair Catchers: Often designed to sit over the drain opening, these hair catchers typically have a raised or textured surface that traps hair while allowing water to drain freely.
- Pop-Up Drain Stoppers with Hair Catchers: These combine a drain stopper with a built-in hair catcher, offering both functionality and convenience.
- Drain Protector with Basket: These systems provide a more complete solution by installing a small basket underneath the drain for the purpose of catching hair and debris.
How to Use a Hair Catcher
- Select the right type: Choose a hair catcher that fits your drain size and style, and also meets your desired features.
- Install properly: Place the hair catcher in or over your drain opening according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Regular Cleaning: Periodically remove the hair catcher and clean away the trapped hair to prevent clogs.
- Dispose of collected hair: Place removed hair into the trash.
| Feature | Mesh Strainers | Silicone Hair Catchers | Pop-Up with Catcher | Drain Protectors |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Placement | Inside drain | Over drain | Inside drain | Under drain |
| Cost | Low | Medium | Medium | High |
| Ease of Cleaning | Easy | Easy | Easy | Moderate |
| Effectiveness | Moderate | Moderate to High | Moderate to High | High |
By installing a hair catcher and cleaning it regularly, you can effectively prevent hair from clogging your drain and maintain a smoothly running plumbing system. As stated on 10-Jan-2019, hair catchers allow water to run through the drain while stopping hair, which allows you to easily remove the hair and place in the trash.
