Post By Admin
June 25, 2025Nobody wants to deal with a clogged shower drain. It’s messy, frustrating, and can quickly turn into a bigger plumbing issue if ignored.
One common solution is installing a shower drain hair catcher, but does it actually help, or is it just another useless gadget?
In this guide, we’ll explain how this simple tool works, the different types available, and how to know if it’s the right fit for your bathroom.
If your drains constantly back up, it could be a sign you need better plumbing maintenance service, and a hair catcher is one small step to help prevent future problems.
What is a Drain Hair Catcher?
A drain hair catcher is exactly what it sounds like. It’s like a small device that catches loose hair before it goes down the drain. Simple, right?
However, the impact can be huge, especially in homes where people have long hair or multiple people share the same shower.
You’ll often hear people call it a shower hair catcher or a hair catcher for the shower, but they all refer to the same thing. It’s a low-tech solution, but when used correctly, it can help extend the life of your plumbing and reduce how often you need to call a plumber.
These devices come in a few forms, usually made from silicone, rubber, or stainless steel. They can sit over the drain, rest inside it, or even combine with your existing drain cover.
No need for screws, glue, or special tools, you just place it where the water flows, and it starts working right away.
How Does a Drain Hair Catcher Work?
A shower drain hair catcher works by filtering out hair strands and soap scum before they get pulled into your drainpipe.
Water passes through the holes or mesh, but anything too big to fit, like hair or debris, stays on top. You then remove the catcher, clean off the gunk, and place it back.
This simple process helps keep your pipes clear, especially if you’re in a household where people lose a lot of hair during showers. It’s not a perfect system, but it significantly reduces the chance of buildup inside your pipes.
Some designs are more discreet than others. For example, an in-drain shower strainer drain hides beneath the surface, while flat silicone catchers sit on top and are easier to clean.
Whatever design you choose, just make sure it fits your drain size snugly, too loose, and won’t catch anything. It’s too tight, and water will pool.
If you’re curious about how your drain system actually works behind the scenes, you can check out our guide on how shower drains work.
Types of Shower Drain Hair Catchers
There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to hair catchers. What works for a walk-in shower might not work for a bathtub, and vice versa. Here are the most common types you’ll find:
1. Mesh Catchers
These are probably the most recognisable. Made of stainless steel or silicone, they sit over the drain and catch hair before it enters. They’re cheap and effective but need regular cleaning.
2. In-Drain Baskets
This type sits slightly inside the drain and catches hair underneath. It’s more discreet and won’t get in the way of your feet while showering, but it can be harder to clean.
3. Pop-Up Drain Stoppers with Built-In Catchers
Some modern drains come with these built-in. You just pull the stopper to remove trapped hair. They work well but are more expensive to install.
4. Flat Silicone Covers
Great for renters or anyone who doesn’t want a permanent fixture. These are soft, flexible, and sit flat over the drain. Easy to remove and rinse after each shower.
Not sure what kind of drain you have? Learn about the types of shower drains so you can choose the right catcher.
Do Drain Hair Catchers Actually Work?
Most of the time, yes, they work really well. A good shower drain hair catcher can stop most of the hair that would otherwise clog your pipes. And considering they’re cheap and easy to use, they’re worth trying out.
But there are some cases where they might not work as expected:
- If the catcher doesn’t fit properly, hair can sneak through the gaps.
- If it’s not cleaned often, hair builds up and water starts pooling.
- Really fine hair can sometimes slip through the holes.
Still, these problems are easy to avoid. Just make sure to get the right size, clean it often, and replace it if it starts to wear down.
It’s also a good idea to stay ahead of any smell issues, a smelly shower drain is often a sign of deeper buildup that a catcher alone can’t fix.
FAQ about Drain Hair Catcher
Still wondering if this small tool makes a big difference? Here are some answers to common questions.
Are there alternatives to the drain hair catcher?
Yes, but they’re usually more work. You can use a drain snake to pull out clogs, but it’s not pleasant. Some people rely on chemical cleaners, but those can damage your pipes over time. A better option is to clean naturally. See our tips on unblocking shower drain.
What is the best way to catch hair in a shower drain?
Honestly, using a proper hair catcher for the shower is the best and easiest way. Just make sure it’s compatible with your drain. Flat silicone ones are great for surface drains, while basket styles work better inside the pipe.
What will dissolve hair in a shower drain?
Enzyme-based cleaners are the safest. They break down hair without damaging your plumbing. You can also try baking soda and vinegar, but don’t use boiling water, especially if your plumbing uses plastic piping.
And if you’re using any sealants, follow our guide on how to clean around plumber’s putty.
Should I install a hair catcher in the shower?
Yes. It’s affordable, easy to maintain, and it works. You don’t need a plumber, and you’ll save money in the long run by avoiding bigger blockages. Especially if your hair sheds a lot, this little tool makes a big difference.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, a shower drain hair catcher is a small tool with a big impact. It’s one of the easiest ways to avoid clogged drains, reduce smell issues, and save yourself from expensive fixes.
Just remember: you still need to clean it regularly for it to do its job.
If your shower already has a backup or water’s draining slowly, that’s your cue to take action.
And if the catcher alone isn’t enough, reach out to Neighbourhood Plumbing for expert plumbing service that actually gets the job done.
Ready to fix your drain? Call us now!
About the Author
From unclogging the toughest drains to repairing leaking toilets, Ricky is a seasoned plumber who has brought his craftmanship to homes across Melbourne. He is passionate about sharing plumbing tips just as much as he is about fixing your plumbing issues. So, when your taps or pipes begin leaking, you know who to call.
