When the first thing you smell after you enter your bathroom is the unpleasant odor that comes from the drain, you can imagine that nobody feels very comfortable with such a condition. The smells of rotten bathroom drains not only do the trick of throwing off the beauty and neatness of your house but also make it a less comfortable place to live.
Yes, many people have asked you how to get rid of smelly drains in your bathroom, and you might be keen to get the answer if you are the one. Well, this post will certainly be of use to you, as what you will also learn is not only the causes of what made it smell weird and, more importantly, how those causes can be initially diagnosed, according to the collection of DIY methods, but also the ways of keeping it from happening once again. We will also mention when it is necessary to reach the plumber.
Table of Contents
The Origins of Unpleasant Smells in Drains Identification
By being aware, first of all, of the reasons that make your bathroom sink have a nasty smell, you can then proceed to apply the right methods to solve the problem. Below are several bare examples of the most usual negative facets that may raise the issue of the worst drain smell ever:
1. Hair and Soap Scum Buildup
Hair, together with leftover soap and the remnants of body oil, in time, begins to gather and turn into a sticky, stubborn mess, which is the real villain regarding the accumulation in the sewer. The blockage cannot only be a symptom of Water slowing down, but the real problem is that the bacteria living in the wet, organic material can also be the real cause of the bad smell. Regularly cleaning and the use of drain strainers can help prevent this common problem.
2. Biofilm Bacteria
Biofilm is a conglomeration of bacteria and other microorganisms that grow on the inside of pipes, where moisture is the only condition they can live in. It is a slimy, mucous-like layer that forms on the surfaces around the drain hole or inside the whole tubing. The sooner you detect the problem, the better it is. One way to diagnose biofilm is to feel a musty, sour, or even rotten odor emanating from the drain, but sometimes it is not always visible, yet it is there. Just using a disinfectant, which is in the form of a gel and which won’t damage the environment, can do the job.
3. Dry P-Traps
The P-trap is a curved section of pipe situated directly below your sink, shower, or bathtub drain. It is primarily designed to hold Water, which creates a barrier that keeps the foul-smelling sewer gases from entering your house. However, in cases where a drain is not used often, e.g., a guest bathroom or seasonal property, the Water standing in the P-trap can be evaporated, and the pipe can get dry. Instead, the mechanism can remove the sewer smog. If from time to time you notice an unpleasant smell, a simple water run for a few minutes through the drain can refill the P-trap, and the problem will go away.
4. Mold or Mildew Growth
In fact, bathrooms are wet by nature, which makes them a likely place for mold and mildew to reproduce. Also, these parasites prefer to occupy those areas of the bathroom where lack of light and a lot of moisture are the main features, such as around the plumbing, under sink cabinets, the drain itself, etc. If you have discovered that a damp or earthy smell exists in the room and, in particular, you have felt bad smells from the drain, it is quite certain that the problem is with mold or mildew.
Apart from the fact that it is unpleasant, mold can also be a risk to our health in terms of allergies or respiratory problems. Airing the room frequently, besides controlling moisture, and doing deep cleaning only a few times a year with a focus on mold may help solve the problem.
5. Sewer Line Troubles
If the foul odor is not only from the drain but also has spread around the house, then this issue is not local, and we are referring to all the drains as the sources of the problem. In this case, very often, the chief reason for the bad smell comes from the blockage of the main sewer line or a leak or damage at the septic tank. Such operational defects are the source of gas leakage, thereby causing a continuous bad smell through the water supply pipes of your house. On the other hand, it could be a leakage or blockage of the drainage pipe network, and if this is true, the matter is very serious because it is a problem that must be diagnosed by a trained plumber but overcome by a hack.
If you fail to fix the sewer line, the consequences may be even more expensive; hence, prompt decision-making is needed if you suspect that the sewer line may be the cause of the smell.
DIY Solutions to Get Rid of Smelly Drains
Once you have located the issue, there are many easy fixes you can test at home to get rid of the unpleasant smells.
1. Baking Soda and Vinegar
The combination of these two is the classic formula for the removal of dirt as well as bacteria from your drains.
- Throw 50 grams of baking soda down the drain.
- Then, pour in 250 ml of white vinegar.
- Plug the drain with a stopper or cover the drain with a cloth and leave it for ten to fifteen minutes.
- Finally, to clear out the buildup, pour the boiling water through the drain.
2. Boiling Water
You can easily circumvent the grease and the soap scum that adhere to the pipes by using the hot water trick. The method requires a kettle of boiling Water to be poured slowly and directly into the drain in repeated stages, with a break in between to let the Water through.
3. Salt and Hot Water
Inside the drain, put 1/8 liter of coarse salt, then pour a kettle of hot Water into it. The salt not only acts as a detergent by wearing off the grime along the pipes but also as a scourer due to the texture of the salt. (Just ensure that the Water does not boil when you pour it down the drain.)
4. Use a Plumbing Snake or Wire Hanger
It’s a very common situation with bathroom drains to get all clogged situated there. Just go inside with a straightened wire hanger to pull the dead hair or debris to the close surface.
5. Hydrogen Peroxide Rinse
Hydrogen peroxide is both an antiseptic and a deodorant agent. You can dump a 1/4 cup of hydrogen peroxide into the drain for bacterial colonies to be killed and for a good smell in your bathroom.
6. Enzyme-Based Cleaners
Find the nearest store and grab yourself an enzyme-based cleaner to unclog your drains. These cleaners are more or less as powerful and still very safe to use where they then break down waste matter like food remnants, hair, and soap scum, and the pipes are still fine to use.
Prevention Tips for Fresh Drains
When you are done with the bad smell, the next big thing is to make sure it’s gone forever. A simple action that can ensure both of those things is to follow these simple rules of always keeping your bathroom maintained:
1. Use Drain Screens
Get the screens for your drains so they can’t slip in the hair, soap pieces, or rubbish before they get to your pipes. Keep the screen clean on a regular basis to avoid the amount of residue.
2. Flush Drains Regularly
Have hot Water run through your pipes once a week to get rid of any unwanted residue and to keep the P-trap of your drain full. In the case of the sinks and shower drains not used often, it is advised to pour a cup of Water into the pipes every 2-3 weeks to prevent the sewer gases from coming up.
3. Clean with Baking Soda Monthly
Sprinkle baking soda into your drains once a month to remove any bad smells and blockages. Now leave hot Water to do the rest of the cleaning.
4. Maintain Low Humidity
To lower the humidity in your bathroom, you can either utilize dehumidifiers or make sure there is a good How To Uninstall 1xbet App vent that is functioning perfectly. With little humidity, you’ll have fewer chances of mold or mildew forming.
5. Avoid Pouring Grease or Oil Down Drains
After some time, greasy items, oils, and lotions will create sticky gunk that captures garbage. To prohibit the pipes from being clogged and at the same time having a bad smell, just don’t wash these substances down the sink.
When to Call a Professional Plumber
After all the described methods, if the smell is still present, then there is no other option but to call an expert. It may be a complicated problem that you can’t solve yourself.
Reach out to a plumber in case:
- The smell comes from multiple drains.
- Your drains have visible mold or mildew in or around them.
- Water goes back through the faucet if any one of them is turned on.
- That foul smell gives the impression of a sewer gas problem in the main sewer line.
It’s always wiser to deal with plumbing problems as soon as possible rather than wait until they become worse and more costly. If you are thinking of a bathroom remodel, we can help you with plumbing upgrades while providing high-quality renovation services. Find out about our bathroom remodel services at America’s General Contracting.
Be Wary of Drain Issues That Can Be Cured by a Remodel
A bath with smelly drains and old-fashioned plumbing that is out of date can be converted to a new look with fewer or no problems at all if you can do a remodel. We from America’s General Contracting are experts in full bathroom renovations. We have modern plumbing equipment that not only solves the odor problem but also offers permanent solutions.
It may be just minor upgrades or finally building that spa-like retreat that you have dreamed of, we are equipped to help you design a bathroom that is comfortable and meets your needs while eliminating the common drain issues at the same time.
Related to Bathroom Drain odors and Bathroom Remodeling Queries
1. What are the common causes of smelly bathroom drains?
Smelly bathroom drains might be the result of hair, soap scum, or dead organic materials that usually decompose and cause this issue. Another reason behind the smell could be the absence or the blockage of a P-trap, which makes it possible for the sewer gas to penetrate your bathroom. Moreover, those places that appear to be moist and grow mildew or mold may contribute to the bad smells emitted by your sewer.
2. How do you eliminate the odors in your bathroom drains?
To remove the bad smell, the initial step is to cleanse the drains thoroughly. Pouring the soda-vinegar mixture, followed by hot Water, to dissolve any clog is an efficient way to solve the problem. Another good suggestion is to use a drain snake to grab the stuck materials. However, if the problem is not resolved, always check for dark and damp areas that might be the reason for the smell. Constantly clean the place with some homemade and green solutions at least once a month to prevent those bad existent odors.
3. Do smelly bathroom drains suggest that there is a serious issue?
Definitely so! Persistent odors might indicate more serious recurring problems like impaired pipes, poor venting, or even sewer line blockages. If these severe problems persist without being addressed, you may end up having to incur more serious issues and a great deal of money to do the repair in the future. A professional plumber should be the one to examine your drainage system in case the odors do not disappear after you wash it.
4. When should I consider hiring a professional plumber for my bathroom drains?
If you have done the basic cleaning methods and the odors or clogs are still coming back, then you should look for a professional plumber. These specialists can check for leaks, cracks, and other problems in your plumbing system that may be more complex. In addition, they have the necessary skills and tools for deep cleaning, fixing the damage, and making sure the plumbing works efficiently.
5. Can a bathroom remodel help with plumbing issues?
Certainly can! A bathroom remodel allows homeowners the opportunity to address obsolete or malfunctioning plumbing systems. This is the time to change piping, re-layout for efficiency, and waterproofing for mold and mildew prevention. Moreover, bringing in new fixtures and energy-saving designs will increase the bathroom’s aesthetic and function.
6. How long does a bathroom remodel typically take?
As stated above, the time it will take for a bathroom renovation to be completed depends on the nature and complexity of the work. Thus, simple renovations that only entail a change of fixtures, for example, may be done within a few days. However, complete rearrangements of fixtures, walls, floors, or other interior renovations may take three to six weeks or even longer. Nevertheless, if one plans everything w…
7. How much does it generally cost to remodel a bathroom?
The cost of bathroom renovations depends on many factors, like the area’s size and characteristics, the materials used, and the extent of the renovation. For instance, a simple refresh will be the cheapest, ranging from $2,500 to $5,000, while full-scale makeovers will cost you between $10,000-30,000 or even more. Local professionals may provide the most accurate cost estimates in terms of the area of the bathroom, the design needs, and your budget after signing up for several service consultations with them.
8. How can I keep my bathroom smelling fresh all the time?
If you want your bathroom to be fragrant all the time, you must ensure proper ventilation by using exhaust fans or opening windows. In addition, regular cleaning of drains and fixtures, quick response to leaks, and keeping the area dry to avoid mold and mildew can solve the problem. You can also put essential oils, which act as natural air fresheners, or moisture absorbers that are in the pants region of your clothes whenever needed.
9. What steps should I take to identify an appropriate contractor for my bathroom renovation?
Finding a contractor should be based on his verified ability, positive reviews from customers, and legal papers for licensing and insurance. A cost comparison of at least three providers is the fairest way to get quotes and services of varying quality. The contractor should be able to provide a model that respects your artistic sensitivity and demonstrate some skills s/he has in mind that can be handled within the given budget.
America’s General Contracting, being a multi-award-winning professional, is your best bet for a bathroom refurbishing project. Their team recognizes the needs of the customer and designs an elegant and functional room to fulfill those needs.
10. How do I take care of my bathroom to prevent future smelly drain problems?
Maintenance in advance can probably keep future problems away. Employ drain covers to gather hair and debris, apply non-toxic cleaners to the drain on a monthly basis, and never pour grease or other heavy stuff down the drain. Regularly check for leaks or standing Water and manage moisture with a proper ventilation system.
Should you wish to solve the stinky drain problems or engage in a major bathroom remodel, come to America’s General Contracting for extensive advice and solutions that are designed to fit your needs!
Tip on Having a Fresh and Odor-Free Bathroom
You can always have a bathroom that feels and smells good, so smelly drains in the bathroom are not to be expected. Given that you are aware of the reasons, carry out practical actions by yourself, and continue with preventative measures, you can enjoy a bathroom that is fresh and cozy
Also, if the problem is persistent, there is no harm in consulting a professional plumber or understanding if a full bathroom remodel is the way to go. You may want to read more about plumbing issues during a remodel or space renovation by visiting our website at America’s General Contracting.
Do not allow the smelly drains to spoil your mood anymore. Shut the door—clear that stink from your house and introduce a clean and fresh environment!
