How To Get Rid Of Smell In Bathroom Drain

You can read on to learn the proven methods to remove the awful, stinky smell coming out of your bathroom drain.

Having a foul-smelling bathroom drain is a common problem that can be caused by a buildup of hair, soap, and other organic matter. This buildup can attract bacteria, which can lead to the development of a biofilm, a slimy film of bacteria that can be difficult to remove. The smell from a bathroom drain can be unpleasant, and it can also be a sign of a more serious problem, such as a plumbing leak.

Baking Soda and Vinegar

A simple and effective way to eliminate bathroom drain smells is to use baking soda and vinegar. Start by pouring a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by a cup of vinegar. The baking soda and vinegar will react to create a bubbling mixture that will help to break down the buildup of organic matter in the drain. After letting it sit for around 15 minutes, flush the drain with hot water to rinse away the loosened material.

Bleach

If a baking soda and vinegar solution doesn't eliminate the smell, you can try using bleach. Bleach is a powerful disinfectant that can kill bacteria and help to remove the biofilm from the drain. Pour a cup of bleach down the drain, and let it sit for 15 minutes before flushing with hot water. Bleach is a corrosive substance, so it's important to avoid getting it on your skin or clothes.

Commercial Drain Cleaners

If baking soda, vinegar, or bleach don't work, you can try using a commercial drain cleaner. Drain cleaners are designed to dissolve the buildup in the drain, and they often contain enzymes or acids that can kill bacteria. Follow the instructions on the product label carefully when using a drain cleaner, and make sure to ventilate the bathroom as the fumes can be harmful.

Remove the Drain Stopper

The stopper in your bathroom sink or bathtub drain can easily collect hair, soap, and other debris, which can lead to a buildup and cause odors. Removing the stopper and cleaning it regularly can help to prevent smells from developing. To remove the stopper, simply grasp it and pull it straight up. Once the stopper is removed, rinse it thoroughly with hot water and clean it with a mild dish soap. Replace the stopper once it's clean.

Clean the P-Trap

The P-trap is the U-shaped pipe that is located under the sink or bathtub drain. The P-trap is designed to trap water, which prevents sewer gases from escaping into the bathroom. Over time, the P-trap can become clogged with hair, soap, and other debris, which can lead to smells. To clean the P-trap, place a bucket under the trap and then loosen the nuts that hold it in place. Once the nuts are loose, you can remove the P-trap and clean it with a wire brush or pipe cleaner. Once the P-trap is clean, replace it and tighten the nuts.

Apart from the methods mentioned above, there are a few other things you can do to prevent bathroom drain smells from developing in the first place:

Run hot water down the drain regularly to help flush away any buildup.
Use a drain screen to catch hair and other debris before it can enter the drain.
Avoid pouring grease or oil down the drain, as this can solidify and cause a blockage.
If you have a garbage disposal, run it regularly with cold water and a few ice cubes to help clean it and prevent smells.

If you have tried all of the methods above and you are still experiencing bathroom drain smells, it is possible that there is a more serious problem, such as a plumbing leak. In this case, it is important to call a plumber to inspect the drain and make the necessary repairs.