What is Black Slime Made of?
Black slime is a biofilm, and a biofilm may be thought of as a sticky layer formed by the aggregation of microorganisms that adhere to surfaces. At their simplest, biofilms can be described as communities of different bacteria, fungi, and mold that grow and live in wet environments: surfaces and pipes of our sinks, showers, and bathtubs. The black or dark green color comes from organic debris collected at the bottom, waste from skin cells, oils, soap scum, and even hair. This cocktail of nutrients forms the perfect breeding ground for biofilm-forming bacteria such as Serratia marcescens and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
Especially common is Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a moisture-loving bacterium responsible for the majority of biofilm formations. This particular bacterium has been known to resist common disinfectants and antibiotics; this may equally make black slime difficult to remove. This biofilm has a thick, slimy texture because bacteria produce extracellular polymeric substances (EPS), which facilitate their adherence to a surface and result in the formation of a protective layer over the colony.
Why Does Black Slime Clog Drains?
Drains are designed to allow water to flow through pipes quickly and effectively. However, the presence of biofilm causes a reduction in the water passage. This thick, slimy layer can decrease water flow and catch other materials, such as hair, particles of soap, and organic waste. Gradually, these materials adhere to the biofilm and lead to blockages in the drain at one point in time or another, eventually shutting off the water flow.
As it develops, biofilm will also harbor more and more bacteria and organic matter, further restricting the flow of water. If not acted upon, the biofilm continues to build up, causing recurrent clogs, unpleasant smells, and the potential spread of bacteria throughout your bathroom. In bathroom sinks and shower or bathtub drains, biofilm can grow where there is moisture, warmth, and organic material—all the best conditions for the proliferation of bacteria.
How to Remove Black Slime from Your Drains
Now that we understand what black slime is and why it is clogging our drains let’s get into effective methods of removal—without using the classic baking soda and vinegar combo.
The Best Way to Remove Black Slime
The best way to remove black slime from a bathroom drain is by removing the stopper in your sink. In most instances, there is a hairball full of black slime toward the top of the drain. Fish the hairball out using a wire or metal hanger by putting a hook at the end. Once you remove the hairball, scrub the slime off with a small brush or toothbrush. Wear gloves because the bacteria and organic debris can cause skin irritation.
For Deeper Clogs Snake the Drain
If the clog is deeper in the drain, use a handheld snake. These handheld drain snakes can help retrieve built-up hair and slime out of shower and tub drains. Slowly push the snake into the drain until it meets resistance, then rotate and pull back to retrieve the gunk. Then flush the drain with hot water. For best results, run the boiling water through the drain to remove the remaining elements of debris and bacteria. This facilitates the breaking down of any remaining biofilm along the walls of the drain pipe.
Use Enzyme-Based Cleaners
Why Enzymes Work: Unlike chemical cleaners that may dissolve surface grime, the best enzyme-based drain cleaners contain natural enzymes and bacteria that digest organic matter. Such cleaners target the bacteria and organic buildup that exist within biofilms, thereby “eating” the slime over time. Follow package instructions for enzyme-based cleaners by pouring down the drain and allowing the mixture to sit for a number of hours or overnight before flushing with hot water. Regular use of the enzyme cleaners will keep the biofilm from reforming.
A Branded Chemical Drain Cleaner Works Excellent
You can use a chemical drain cleaner like Draino or Liquid Plumbr. Nine out of ten plumbers will tell you drain cleaners are bad for your drains. However, these branded cleans will not harm your pipe. Furthermore, they have been clearing minor clogs in bathroom sinks, tubs, and showers for over sixty years. They are not recommended for toilet clogs. Like so many other household products, they can be harmful, but store and use them as directed. You can use the gel cleaners as a drain maintenance.
Steam Clean Your Drains
Consider investing in a handheld steam cleaner. Steam cleaning your drains is an effective and environmentally friendly way to clean your drains. It makes use of high-pressure steam in order to loosen bacteria, biofilm, and grime from your pipe walls. You can use your steam cleaner for many tasks in your home, and you can use it for maintaining your drains.
Stopping Black Slime from Coming Back
Prevention is the best defense against black slime. Develop a few simple habits and follow good maintenance practices, and you’ll keep biofilm at bay while enjoying free-flowing, odorless drains. You can start by flushing your drains weekly. By pouring boiling water down your drains, you can prevent biofilm from forming.
Enzyme Cleaners Monthly
Using an enzyme-based cleaner monthly will keep the levels of biofilm in check because it breaks down organic material in pipes constantly. Reduce organic waste when you put down your drains. After showering or shaving, wipe down the area around the drain so that hair doesn’t go down into the pipes. Use a drain strainer in sinks to catch debris before it goes down the drain. After brushing your teeth or washing your face, run some hot water to rinse away any remaining toothpaste, soap, or oils that may act as a food source for a biofilm.
Stop Hair and Debris Accumulation Use Drain Covers
A drain cover or hair catcher for showers and tubs will help to keep hair out of the pipes. This simple device can reduce both the number of clogs and the amount of organic material available to biofilm-forming bacteria. The drain covers are easy to remove and clean, hence making it simple to dispose of hair and debris without letting them go down the drain.
Check for Leaks and Dripping Faucets
Bacteria thrive in wet environments, and even slight leaks could create a breeding ground for biofilm. Regular pipe and faucet checks will ensure that there are no possible leaks that can provide a constant flow of moisture. If possible, dry your sinks and tubs after use to reduce moisture accumulation. It may sound like a minute gesture, but it makes a huge difference in the prevention of biofilm.
Black Slime in Your Drains is Not Insurmountable
While black slime is not an insurmountable problem, knowing what it is and why it’s formed could make it less daunting. The biofilm is actually a mixture of bacteria, organic matter, and EPS that will clog your drains if not properly handled. Removing this effectively with manual cleaning, enzyme-based cleaners, or professional steam cleaning—and preventing it from coming back through regular maintenance—will keep your drains clear of blockages, odors, and unwanted bacteria. A lot of prevention efforts will go a long way to ensure that your sinks, showers, and tubs remain free-flowing and hygienic.
