Last week, we talked about how to get lost items out of a sink drain. But if you lose something down the shower drain, the process of retrieving it is a bit different. Unfortunately, it is a bit more difficult to retrieve lost items down the shower drain, but this doesn’t mean it is not possible. So if you are currently scratching your head and wondering how you’re going to get your earring out of the shower drain, you came to the right place! Continue reading for a brief guide to retrieving lost items that fall down a shower drain.

What You’ll Need:

• Screwdriver
• Long Apparatus
• Wet-Dry Vacuum
• Rubber Gloves
• Flashlight

Magnet on a String

If the object you lost down the drain is made of metal, you may have some luck using a strong magnet tied to the end of a string. Although this sounds rudimentary, it is often very effective and efficient. You can purchase a magnet that will work at any fabric or craft store, craft aisle, or hardware store. They are cheap and can be easily tied to a string. But be sure to use a sturdy string, like yarn or wool. Thread is sometimes not strong enough, and breaks off too easily. If you do not have luck with this age-old magnet trick, it is recommended to call a plumber for professional assistance, or simply use the DIY guide below!

Getting Started…

Shut off the water. For obvious reasons, if you keep the water running, you risk pushing your lost object further down the drain. The quicker you turn the water off, the better your chances will be of retrieving your item of value.

Remove the drain cover. The drain cover, also called a stopper, will most likely be screwed in, so you will need your screwdriver for this step. Be sure to save the small screws in a safe place so you can replace the drain cover later.

Once the drain is expose, use your flashlight to peer inside. If you can see your lost object close up, you can try to pull it out with your hands. Drains can be dirty so wear rubber gloves for safety.

If you do not see it, use a long apparatus to feel around for your lost object. You can use an unraveled wire coat hanger, long grabbing stick, chopstick, or any other apparatus that feels comfortable and small enough to fit inside the shower drain.

If none of the above works, it is time to use your wet-dry vacuum. On the wet setting, vacuum up the contents inside your shower drain. Listen for any clinking noises, and after a few minutes check the vacuum receptacle for your lost object. You may be surprised what else you find!

When finished, replace the drain cover using your screwdriver.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for shower drain repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner and master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, is dedicated to providing economical and effective plumbing services for all home and property owners in Central Indiana. Whether you have light plumbing repair needs, or heavy-duty complex master plumber needs, we are the professionals to call for prompt services and quality results. Call 317-784-1870 to ask about our current plumbing specials this month, or to request a free estimate for Indianapolis plumbing repair, today.