How to Clean Laundry Floor Drain: The Step-by-Step Guide to a Sparkling Clean Floor

Your laundry floor drain is a crucial part of your laundry room, as it helps to remove excess water and detergent from your washing machine. Over time, however, this drain can become clogged with hair, lint, and other debris, leading to slow drainage or even complete blockages. A clogged laundry floor drain can also cause unpleasant odors and attract pests. Therefore, it is essential to clean your laundry floor drain regularly to ensure its proper functioning and maintain a hygienic laundry room.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

Before you start cleaning your laundry floor drain, gather the following tools and materials:

• Plunger
• Drain snake or auger
• Baking soda
• Vinegar
• Hot water
• Bucket
• Rags or towels

Step-by-Step Instructions on How to Clean Laundry Floor Drain

1. Remove the Drain Cover

Locate the drain cover on your laundry floor. It is usually a small, round or square cover made of plastic or metal. Use a screwdriver or pliers to remove the cover.

2. Plunge the Drain

If there is standing water in your drain, use a plunger to try and unclog it. Place the plunger over the drain opening and pump it vigorously up and down several times. The suction created by the plunger should help dislodge any clogs.

3. Use a Drain Snake or Auger

If the plunger doesn’t work, you can use a drain snake or auger to remove the clog. Insert the drain snake or auger into the drain opening and slowly feed it down the drain. Rotate the handle of the snake or auger to break up the clog. Once you feel resistance, pull the snake or auger back out. Repeat this process until the clog is removed.

4. Pour Baking Soda and Vinegar Down the Drain

Once you have removed the clog, pour 1/2 cup of baking soda down the drain. Follow this with 1/2 cup of vinegar. The baking soda and vinegar will create a fizzing reaction that helps to dissolve any remaining debris or soap scum.

5. Flush the Drain with Hot Water

After the baking soda and vinegar have sat for a few minutes, flush the drain with hot water. Pour a bucket of hot water down the drain to rinse away the baking soda and vinegar solution and any remaining debris.

6. Replace the Drain Cover

Once the drain is clean, replace the drain cover. Make sure to tighten the cover securely to prevent leaks.

7. Regular Maintenance

To keep your laundry floor drain clean and functioning properly, it is important to perform regular maintenance. Here are some tips:

• Run hot water down the drain every few weeks to flush away any debris.
• Pour 1/2 cup of baking soda down the drain once a month to help prevent clogs.
• Avoid pouring grease or oil down the drain.
• Use a drain screen to catch hair and lint before it goes down the drain.

Troubleshooting Common Laundry Floor Drain Problems

Drain is Slow to Drain

• Clogged drainpipe
• Clogged drain trap
• Vent blockage

Drain is Completely Blocked

• Major clog in the drainpipe
• Foreign object stuck in the drain

Drain is Making Gurgling Noises

• Clogged vent
• Air trapped in the drainpipe

What People Want to Know

How often should I clean my laundry floor drain?

It is recommended to clean your laundry floor drain every few months or as needed.

What if I can’t remove the clog with a plunger or drain snake?

If you are unable to remove the clog using a plunger or drain snake, you may need to call a plumber.

Can I use bleach to clean my laundry floor drain?

Bleach is not recommended for cleaning laundry floor drains, as it can damage the pipes and fixtures.

What are some other ways to prevent clogs in my laundry floor drain?

In addition to regular cleaning, you can prevent clogs by using a drain screen, avoiding pouring grease or oil down the drain, and running hot water down the drain every few weeks.