How to Get Rid of Bathroom Drain Odours: A DIY Guide
Let's face it, no one enjoys the unpleasant surprise of a smelly bathroom. It's a common issue that can affect any home, no matter how meticulously clean it is. The good news is that banishing drain odours often involves simple, DIY solutions.
In this guide, we will explore the common causes of bathroom drain odour, delve into effective remedies to remove bathroom drain smells, and equip you with preventive measures to keep those drains smelling fresh.
How to Get Rid of Bathroom Drain Smells: Understanding the Sources
Before embarking on the cleaning process, it's crucial to identify what is causing the drain in your bathroom to smell stinky. Several culprits can contribute to the problem:
Sewer Smell in Bathroom
A persistent sewer smell in the bathroom could indicate a problem with the plumbing vent system or a dried-out P-trap. The P-trap, a U-shaped pipe beneath your sink or bathtub, holds water to create a seal that prevents sewage smells from leaking into your bathroom. If the water in the P-trap evaporates, a strong sewage odour will be noticed in your bathroom.
Bathroom Drain Odour from Clogs
Accumulated hair, soap scum, food particles, and other debris can create clogs in your drains, leading to stagnant water and the growth of odour-causing bacteria. This can result in a foul smell that permeates your bathroom.
Shower Clogs
If your shower drain smells like rotten eggs, it could indicate the presence of hydrogen sulphide gas. This gas is produced by bacteria that thrive in the absence of oxygen, often found in stagnant water or biofilms within the pipes.
Blocked Toilet Drain
A stinky toilet drain may be caused by a host of factors, including a build-up of urine and faecal matter, a dried-out P-trap, or even a crack in the toilet bowl.
How to Get Rid of Bathroom Drain Smells: DIY Solutions
Now that you understand the possible causes of the drain odour, let's explore how to get rid of smelly bathtub drains and how to get rid of smelly drains in the bathroom to restore your home’s freshness!
1. Pour Water into the P-Trap (For Sewer Smell)
If a dried-out P-trap is the culprit behind the sewer-like smell in your bathroom, a simple fix is to pour water down the drain. This will refill the P-trap, creating a barrier against sewer gases. Be sure to run the water for a few minutes to ensure the trap is completely filled.
2. Clean the Bathroom Thoroughly (For General Bathroom Drain Odour)
A thorough cleaning of your bathroom can often eliminate lingering drain odours. When doing so, you should pay particular attention to areas around the drains where moisture and grime can accumulate. It is also recommended to use a disinfectant cleaner to kill odour-causing bacteria and leave your bathroom smelling fresh.
3. Baking Soda and Vinegar (For Clogs and General Odours)
This classic combination is a natural and effective method to get rid of smelly drains in the bathroom. To use this method, pour half a cup of baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, into the drain, followed by an equal amount of white vinegar. The fizzing action should help to loosen and dissolve clogs while neutralising odours. Let the mixture sit for 30 minutes to an hour, then flush with hot water.
4. Boiling Water (For Clogs)
Boiling water can help melt soap scum and grease that contribute to clogs and bad smells. If you’re using this method, carefully pour a kettle of boiling water down the drain, repeating several times if necessary. However, you should be cautious when handling boiling water to avoid burns.
5. Salt and Baking Soda (For Stinky Toilet Drains)
This combination can help deodorise and disinfect a stinky toilet drain. You will have to mix regular table salt with half a cup of baking soda, then pour it into the toilet bowl. Then, let it sit for at least 30 minutes before flushing. If the odour remains, you should consider repeating these steps.
6. Enzyme Cleaners (For Organic Matter)
These cleaners typically contain a type of natural bacteria that breaks down organic materials, allowing clogs to be washed away. They are especially useful for handling blockages caused by loose hair or soap scum. These cleaners, which are commonly sold in stores, are safe for your pipes and the environment and can be effective in removing drain odours caused by organic build-up.
7. Commercial Drain Cleaners (For Stubborn Clogs)
If DIY methods fail to unclog your drain, you can try a commercial drain cleaner. However, it's important to use these solutions with caution, as they may damage pipes and be harsh to the environment. Always follow the instructions carefully and avoid mixing different cleaners.
Preventive Measures to Keep Drains Odour-Free
With how much a bathroom is typically used, prevention is key to maintaining a fresh and odour-free bathroom. Here are some tips to keep your drains smelling clean:
- Proper Disposal of Non-Flushable Items: Avoid flushing anything other than toilet paper down the toilet. Items like wipes, feminine hygiene products, and cotton balls can cause blockages and contribute to sewage odours.
- Regular Drain Cleaning: Flush your drains with hot water and a mild cleaning solution weekly to prevent build-up and keep them smelling fresh. You can also consider installing a drain strainer to catch loose hair and other debris before they enter the pipes.
- Mindful Bathroom Habits: Avoid leaving standing water in sinks or bathtubs for extended periods, as this can promote bacterial growth and lead to odours.
Say Goodbye to Smelly Drains in Your Bathroom
Dealing with stinky drains in the bathroom can be a frustrating experience, but with the right knowledge and techniques, you can effectively eliminate those unwanted odours. By identifying the root cause of the smell, utilising the appropriate DIY solutions, and practising preventive measures, you can keep your bathroom smelling nice and clean.
Remember, if you encounter a persistent or severe drain odour that doesn't respond to DIY methods, don't hesitate to seek professional help. A qualified plumber in Singapore can accurately diagnose the cause of the odour and provide effective solutions to restore your bathroom's freshness and functionality. Download the Sendhelper app or visit our website to book your plumbing service today!
