Why Do My Drains Smell?

Key Takeaways

• Kitchen drain smells are usually caused by decaying food waste, while bathroom drain odours often result from hair and soap scum build-up.
  • Infrequent use of sinks, showers, or toilets can cause water in the U-bend to evaporate, releasing gases.
• To prevent odours, avoid putting food waste down drains, use plug strainers, and run water regularly.
• Persistent odours may require professional help. PJH Co in Bedford offers expert drainage services to diagnose and fix issues.

Let’s talk about a common household problem that can really stink up your day: smelly drains. Whether it’s your kitchen sink or your bathroom drains, dealing with unpleasant odours can be a real hassle. But don’t worry – we’re here to help you get to the bottom of what’s causing those nasty smells and how to get rid of them for good.

Why do my drains smell?

In the kitchen, the most common culprit is food waste. When bits of food get stuck in your pipes, they can start to decay and release some pretty unpleasant odours. Over time, this waste can build up and create a pretty powerful stink.

In the bathroom, the main cause of smelly drains is usually hair and soap scum. When hair and soap build up in your pipes, they can create clogs that trap water and create a breeding ground for bacteria. This bacteria can release some seriously foul odours, making your bathroom a less-than-pleasant place to be.

Another factor that can contribute to smelly drains is infrequent use. If you have a sink, shower or toilet that isn’t used often, the water in the U-bend can evaporate, allowing unpleasant gases to escape into your home. Running water down these drains periodically can help prevent this issue and keep your drains smelling fresh.

How To Get Rid of Smelly Drains

The first step is to try to prevent the problem from happening in the first place. In the kitchen, be sure to scrape your plates and dishes into the bin before washing them and avoid putting things like coffee grounds, eggshells and grease down the drain. You can also run hot water down the drain for a few minutes after each use to help flush away any remaining food particles.

In the bathroom, try to catch hair before it goes down the drain by using a plug strainer or hair catcher. 

If you’re already dealing with a smelly drain, don’t panic — there are plenty of things you can do to get rid of the odour. One of the easiest and most effective methods is to pour a mixture of baking soda and vinegar down the drain, let it sit for a few minutes, and then flush it with hot water. You can also try using a plunger or a plumber’s snake to remove any clogs that might be causing the smell.

What if the odour persists?

If you’ve tried these methods and you’re still dealing with persistent odours, it might be time to call in the professionals.

At PJH Co., we have a team of experienced plumbers and a specialist drainage van ready and waiting to help with any drain problems. Serving Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Milton Keynes, Northamptonshire and London, our fully qualified plumbers will visit your property to diagnose and fix the issue. If you notice a bad smell coming from your drain, just give us a call and we’ll be there.