Cleaning the linear drain. How to do it quickly and efficiently?
Linear floor and wall drains have increasingly dominated Polish bathrooms in recent years as a practical and aesthetic solution. Traditional massive shower trays have virtually disappeared from shower enclosures. Another advantage appreciated by bathroom owners is the relatively easy and convenient cleaning of the linear drain. Wondering how to do it? Read our guide today.
How to prepare the cleaning of the shower tray trap? How to perform linear drain cleaning? What means to use for this? How should a shower drain be properly cleaned when it becomes clogged? Check out!
Why cleaning a linear drain is so important?
Quite discreet and minimalist linear drain, both in wall and floor versions, gives bathroom owners a very wide range of maneuvering room when it comes to space arrangement. It is usually used in shower cubicles without a shower tray, where the floor is covered with tiles, and this perfectly fits in with modern design trends. Easy cleanliness is another important characteristic of a linear drain. This is because cleaning this element does not require the complicated disassembly of a traditional grille.
However, it is worth considering why this activity is so important and should be performed regularly. Although a linear drain is excellent at draining water along with debris, it does not have the magical ability to clean itself. Over time, limescale can accumulate inside it, which largely depends on the hardness of the water coming from the network. Also deposited in the drain are residues of cosmetics - soap, shower gel and shampoo, as well as any dirt washed off the body and hair. Cleaning a linear drain is just as important as cleaning a traditional shower tray trap. Maintains nominal water flow and prevents clogging of the drain when it is not cleaned for a long time.
Before you start cleaning the drain
Cleaning the shower drain does not require special preparations, but on this occasion it is worth taking care to thoroughly wash the shower stall and the floor beforehand, especially around the drain. You probably don't want the dirt that has accumulated there, primarily soap or shower gel residue, to soon find its way into the cleaned system. Therefore, first of all, wash the floor thoroughly, using a soft brush or mop. Water should suffice, but if you are going to use detergents, choose them according to the characteristics of the tiles, according to the directions of their manufacturer. Then thoroughly dry the surface.
What to do the cleaning of the linear drain in a safe way?
Good quality drains are made of stainless steel, which provides this piece of equipment with corrosion resistance. Such models are in the offer of Balneo. With what to carry out the cleaning of a drain made of stainless steel? Usually strong detergents are not necessary. All you need is a mild dishwashing liquid. Avoid aggressive chemicals that can cause micro-damage to the steel surface.
Also recommendable are home remedies that deal with scale brilliantly, such as a mixture of citric acid and baking soda, or a 20% solution of water and vinegar. Try to use non-invasive sponges, microfiber cloths or very soft brushes with natural or artificial bristles. This way, cleaning the drain will not weaken its condition.
Cleaning the shower drain step by step
Dry floor is already free of dirt? It's time to get to work and start cleaning the linear drain! Check out how to do it step by step.
1. Cleaning the shower drain cover
First, remove the drain cover. Ergonomic and easy to use, the models available in the Balneo store are equipped with a special hook that allows you to do it with one hand movement. Now thoroughly wash the bezel with a soft cloth and detergent of your choice. Wipe the object and set it aside before proceeding further.
2. Cleaning the shower tray trap
Then comes the time to clean the trap in the shower tray or linear drain installed directly in the floor. If you have a model equipped with a basket settling tank, it won't take you long to do this. This item is also made of stainless steel, so clean it thoroughly with water and a detergent of your choice. After wiping down the accessory, all you have to do is perform a quick installation. The whole thing should not take you more than a few minutes!
Now the drain is ready to function perfectly. Wondering how often this activity should be repeated? Much depends on how intensively the shower room is used. With installation as convenient as it is with today's drains, cleaning of the linear drain can be done once a week during regular bathroom cleaning. If a large amount of hair and other debris does not enter the drain, it is enough to look inside once every few weeks.
How to unclog a linear drain - cleaning a clogged drain
You happened to neglect the regular cleaning of the shower drain, and unfortunately it became clogged? In such a situation, you have a little more work ahead of you. Begin the throttling by thoroughly cleaning the lid and settling tank. There is a high probability that the blockage originated deeper. First, apply a mixture of baking soda and vinegar to the pipes, which should then be poured with warm water.
If repeating this procedure several times does not help, you need to reach for chemical detergents designed to unclog pipes. A reliable solution for extremely challenging blockages are preparations based on sulfuric acid, which perfectly deal with organic matter and grease. Keep in mind, however, that before you reach for one of them, you need to make sure what the pipes in your installation are made of and that a particular preparation does not endanger them.
How to choose a linear drain to make cleaning easier?
Cleaning a linear drain is all the easier the easier it is to install and remove it. In the Balneo range you will find models equipped with an easily removable cover and a functional basket settling tank. Our stainless steel products feature excellent water flow, stainless steel workmanship, and tremendous durability, as evidenced by a multi-year warranty. A good choice will make your linear drain almost maintenance-free!
