How To Stop Smelly Bathroom Drains

How to Stop Smelly Bathroom Drains

The stench from a bathroom drain can make the whole house smell bad, especially in summer. If you've noticed this problem, don't try to mask it with chemical drain cleaners. These products can damage your pipes and create even more problems.

Instead, you can use one of these safe and natural methods to clear the drain and remove the odor. You may need to try a few different methods before you find one that works for you.

1. Baking Soda and Vinegar

This is a classic method for cleaning drains because it's both effective and inexpensive. To use it, pour 1/2 cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by 1/2 cup of vinegar. The mixture will foam up and bubble as it works to break down the clog. Let it sit for 15 minutes, then flush the drain with hot water.

2. Salt and Boiling Water

This method is a good choice if you have a stubborn clog. To use it, pour 1/2 cup of salt down the drain, followed by a kettle of boiling water. The hot water will help to dissolve the salt and break up the clog. Let it sit for 15 minutes, then flush the drain with cold water.

3. Drain Snake

If you have a clog that is too deep for baking soda and vinegar or salt and boiling water to reach, you can try using a drain snake. This is a long, flexible tool that can be inserted into the drain and used to break up the clog. To use it, simply insert the snake into the drain and turn the handle until the clog is broken up. Then, flush the drain with hot water.

4. Plunger

A plunger can also be effective at clearing a clogged drain. To use it, make sure the plunger cup is completely covering the drain hole. Then, push down on the plunger and pull it back up several times. This will help to create a suction that will pull the clog out of the drain. Flush the drain with hot water when you're finished.

5. Commercial Drain Cleaner

If you've tried all of the above methods and you're still having trouble with a smelly drain, you may need to use a commercial drain cleaner. These products are usually more effective than natural methods, but they can also be more harmful to your pipes. If you decide to use a commercial drain cleaner, be sure to follow the directions carefully and use it only as directed.

Here are some tips to help you prevent smelly bathroom drains in the future:

Use a drain screen to catch hair and other debris before it can go down the drain.

Pour a cup of baking soda down the drain once a month to keep it clean and free of odors.

Flush the drain with hot water after each use to help prevent clogs.

If you have a garbage disposal, run it with cold water and dish soap after each use to help prevent food particles from building up in the drain.