Why Is There Slime in My Shower Drain?

Noticing black slime in your shower drain can definitely take the clean feeling out of showering — especially if you accidentally step in it. While this creepy, slimy substance may resemble something from a scary sci-fi movie, it's actually caused by biofilm buildup in your drains.

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Fortunately, shower slime is generally easy to control if you take preventive measures and address any underlying plumbing issues.

What Is the Black Slime in My Shower Drain?

Commonly referred to as bio slime, the black slime in shower drains may contain various types of matter, including:

• Body oils

• Skin cells

• Toothpaste

• Soap scum

• Hair and hair products

• Mineral deposits

While these substances flush down the drain when you shower, some particles may get left behind and stick to the pipe walls. These particles can build up significantly over time, leading to the black slime you see in your drain. Bio slime can also harbor mold and various microorganisms, which may give off moldy or musty odors.

Mold, Mildew, Fungus and Bio Slime: Ick

Excessive shower drain slime can indicate a substantial buildup of biofilm in your drain pipes and/or plumbing system. You may also notice black or pink slime around your shower drain if there's a blockage in your plumbing pipes due to hair, soap scum or other debris buildup. The bottom line? Shower drain slime is never considered normal.

Is Bio Slime or Biofilm Dangerous?

While the specific risks can vary, the biofilms present in drain slime may contain potentially harmful viruses and bacteria. Certain bacteria found in the biofilm in your drains and plumbing system are extremely hardy and highly resistant to antibiotics. If the slime is accidentally ingested, it may increase the risk of illness.

How Do I Get Rid of the Slime in My Shower Drain?

If you spot slime in and/or around your shower drain, the first thing to do is contact a professional plumber. They'll conduct a thorough inspection of your pipes and plumbing system to determine if any underlying issues need addressing.

Drain cleaning may be required to get rid of deep blockages or severe clogs in the pipes. While the methods used can vary, many plumbers use hydro-jet equipment to eliminate tough clogs and thoroughly clean drain pipes. During a hydro-jet procedure, a specialized hose carrying highly pressurized water is inserted into the affected drain. The water safely and effectively cuts through blockages and breaks down buildup on the pipes.

If your plumber doesn't find any major problems, they may recommend pouring baking soda and peroxide down your shower drain at the first sign of slime. Start by pouring one cup of baking soda in the drain and allowing it to sit for about 10 minutes. Next, pour a cup of peroxide down the drain. Wait a few hours while the mixture works on the buildup, then run your hot water to flush everything away.

Using a drain snake is another solution to remove minor clogs and blockages that can contribute to drain slime. You can purchase a drain snake at your local hardware store, but it's important to note that these tools can potentially damage your pipes if used incorrectly. If you don't have experience using a drain snake, it's probably best to call a professional plumber.

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How Do I Prevent Slime Buildup in Shower Drains?

After you've successfully eliminated the underlying source of the slime buildup in your shower drain, it's important to take steps to prevent its return. Flushing your drains every few weeks using the baking soda and peroxide method may help hinder biofilm buildup, You can also invest in a screen that fits over your shower drain to help catch hair and other debris before it enters the drain.

Keep the Sludge Out of Your Shower Drain. Try These Methods:

Enzymatic drain cleaners: These solutions are an eco-friendly alternative to harsh drain cleaners. They work by breaking down waste and buildup so it easily washes down your shower drain. Cleaning your drain on a regular basis may help prevent heavy biofilm buildup.

Baking soda and vinegar: When combined, vinegar and baking soda create a chemical reaction that helps break down drain slime. To prevent heavy slime buildup, pour a cup of baking soda in your shower drain, followed by a cup of white vinegar. Let the mixture sit for about 15 minutes, then complete the process by pouring hot water down the drain. This should help eliminate any existing slime in your shower drain and lower the likelihood of new buildup.