By Dave Solberg
Dear Dave,
Happy Holidays! What is the best way to maintain good drainage in the shower in my RV? I’m very careful about what goes into the drains, but the shower presents a different issue. I have longer hair, and although I keep a cover over the drain to trap hair or anything that shouldn’t go there, a little makes it into the drain. I got this nifty little tool to try, but I’d like more professional input of what is the safe way to clear the shower drain. Is there a particular drain cover that ranks best? Is vinegar safe to use in the RV drain? Thanks! —Karen, 2008 Safari Simba 36PCT
Dear Karen,
The drain in your RV shower should be a 1½” or even 2” diameter flange with a 90-degree elbow similar to the 3D drawing I got off the Winnebago website.
Typically, this large of an elbow and pipe don’t get clogged, but rather the smaller drain pipe on a sink that has a “P” trap, which your plastic snake would work well for.
Filters available for RV shower drain
However, there are several types of filters that are available. Most residential types would work, as well. Since you have a fixed drain flange, you would not be able to use a strainer, but I did find a great filter on Amazon here.
I believe your actual drain is smaller, with vacuum-formed plastic around the edge rather than the metal. However, this type of stick-on screen should work fine. The photos even showed what might be your issue.
I like the fact that they are disposable, inexpensive, and versatile to use in the kitchen and bathroom sinks as well. Those would be more likely to get something clogged in the “P” trap.
I know of owners who put the cat litter box in the shower and are always looking for ways to keep the litter from going down the drain and sticking in the spade valve. Many use a screen mesh and one of those rubber, anti-slip mats with the holes in. I believe this is a much better solution.
And, yes, vinegar is safe to use in the gray water tank. However, it will mostly just help with smells, not disintegrate hair or clogs.
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RVDT2806
I purchased the exact same drain covers. However, it did not have any adhesive applied to it.
It would not stay in place while showering. Very bad purchase. Buyer beware.
I use a small stainless screen, purchased at Doller Tree, that fits the drain and works without effort.
Thank you for the discussion and product link, Dave! We use a plastic snake to prevent clogs in the RV shower. However, the drain cover you linked may work well for the shower drain at home. Have a great week, grand 2026, and safe travels!
What about the old vinegar and baking soda solution. Is it safe for RV use?
That mixture works well on some things, like soap scum and maybe food particles, but I don’t think it will dissolve hair
I have used this screen. Mine did have adhesive which transferred to the drain area and was extremely difficult to clean off. If you don’t have a problem with cleaning the residue they work great.
I have a long-haired wife who leaves her mark everywhere. This is my solution which I really think works well. They make several versions for showers and tubs but I like this one best.
https://amzn.to/4jjMRz7
Question: the diagram seems to show that the shower drain does not have a P-trap, is this possible? I thought all drains had one. If I look down mine, I see water. I use the small stainless one like Tom does.