My Bathroom Sink Smells Like Rotten Eggs

If your bathroom sink smells like rotten eggs, it's not just unpleasant—it can also be a sign of a plumbing problem. The good news is that it's usually a relatively easy problem to fix. Here are a few of the most common causes of a rotten egg smell coming from your bathroom sink, and what you can do to fix it:

1. Bacteria Buildup

One of the most common causes of a rotten egg smell coming from your bathroom sink is bacteria buildup. Bacteria can grow in the drain, especially if it's not cleaned regularly. The bacteria can feed on organic matter, such as hair, soap scum, and toothpaste, and produce hydrogen sulfide gas, which smells like rotten eggs.

To fix this problem, you can try cleaning the drain with a commercial drain cleaner or a homemade solution of baking soda and vinegar. You can also try pouring a pot of boiling water down the drain to kill the bacteria.

2. Clogged Drain

Another common cause of a rotten egg smell coming from your bathroom sink is a clogged drain. When the drain is clogged, water can't flow through it properly, and it can start to back up. This can create a breeding ground for bacteria, which can produce hydrogen sulfide gas.

To fix this problem, you can try using a drain snake to clear the clog. You can also try pouring a pot of boiling water down the drain to dissolve the clog.

3. Faulty P-Trap

The P-trap is a U-shaped pipe that's located under the sink. It's designed to trap water and prevent sewer gases from escaping into the bathroom. If the P-trap is faulty, it can allow sewer gases to escape, which can cause a rotten egg smell.

To fix this problem, you can try tightening the nuts that hold the P-trap in place. If that doesn't work, you may need to replace the P-trap.

4. Dry P-Trap

If the P-trap is dry, it can't trap water and prevent sewer gases from escaping. This can cause a rotten egg smell.

To fix this problem, you can try running water down the sink for a few minutes. This will fill the P-trap with water and seal it off.

5. Damaged Drainpipe

If the drainpipe is damaged, it can allow sewer gases to escape. This can cause a rotten egg smell.

To fix this problem, you will need to replace the damaged drainpipe.

6. Sewer Gas Leak

If there is a sewer gas leak, it can cause a rotten egg smell. Sewer gas leaks can be dangerous, so it's important to fix them as soon as possible.

To fix this problem, you will need to find the source of the leak and seal it.

7. Other Causes

In some cases, a rotten egg smell coming from your bathroom sink may be caused by other factors, such as:

A problem with the water heater
A problem with the septic system
A problem with the garbage disposal

If you've tried all of the above troubleshooting tips and you're still getting a rotten egg smell from your bathroom sink, it's best to call a plumber. A plumber can diagnose the problem and make the necessary repairs.