How to Clean a Smelly Drain

Cleaning a Nasty Smelly Shower Drain

Are you tired of dealing with a smelly shower or sink drain? Don’t worry, you’re not alone! Fortunately, there are a few simple steps you can take to get rid of that unpleasant smell and keep your drains fresh and clean. The process we will follow can be seen in this video:

5 Ways to Clean a Drain with a Bad Odor

Here are five ways to tackle a smelly drain:

  1. Remove the P-trap: The P-trap is a U-shaped pipe located under your sink that prevents sewer gases from entering your home. If your drain smells bad, the P-trap may be the culprit. To clean it, first locate the P-trap under your sink and use a wrench to loosen the slip nuts on either end. Once the P-trap is removed, you can clean out any debris or gunk that may be causing the smell.
  2. Use baking soda and vinegar: This is a tried and true method for cleaning and deodorizing drains. Simply mix equal parts baking soda and vinegar in a bowl, then pour the mixture down the drain. The baking soda and vinegar will react to create a fizzing action that helps to loosen and remove any gunk or debris that may be causing the smell.
  3. Use a plunger: If your drain is clogged, a plunger may be able to help. Simply place the plunger over the drain and press down firmly to create suction. This can help to loosen any blockages that may be causing the smell.
  4. Use a drain snake: A drain snake is a long, flexible tool that can be inserted into the drain to remove blockages. If your drain is clogged, a drain snake may be able to help by breaking up and removing any gunk or debris that may be causing the smell.
  5. Use commercial drain cleaner: If all else fails, you can try using a commercial drain cleaner to help get rid of the smell. Just be sure to follow the instructions on the package and use caution when handling these chemicals.

Remember, regular maintenance is key to keeping your drains smelling fresh and clean. By following these steps and keeping on top of any potential issues, you can enjoy a fresh and pleasant-smelling home. Happy DIY-ing!

If you’re dealing with a smelly shower or sink drain, one of the first things you should check is the P-trap. This important plumbing component is located under your sink and is designed to prevent sewer gases from entering your home. Here’s a more detailed look at what the P-trap is, how it works, and how you can clean it:

What is a P-trap ?

The P-trap is a U-shaped pipe that is connected to two other components: the weir and the tailpiece. The weir is the curved part of the P-trap that sits below the sink drain, and the tailpiece is a straight pipe that connects the P-trap to the drainpipe.

The P-trap works by trapping a small amount of water in the U-shaped curve of the pipe. This water creates a seal that prevents sewer gases from entering your home through the drain. The weir and tailpiece are designed to allow water to flow freely through the P-trap while maintaining the seal.

If your drain smells bad, it’s possible that the P-trap is clogged or not functioning properly. To clean the P-trap, you’ll need to locate it under your sink and use a wrench to loosen the slip nuts on either end. Once the P-trap is removed, you can clean out any debris or gunk that may be causing the smell. You can also use a mixture of baking soda and vinegar or a commercial drain cleaner to help remove any stubborn blockages.

By keeping your P-trap clean and properly functioning, you can help prevent unpleasant odors from emanating from your drains. Just remember to use caution when handling the P-trap and any chemicals, and be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using commercial cleaners.

Another way to clean a P-trap

In addition to the methods mentioned above, another option for cleaning a smelly shower or sink drain is to use a cylindrical wire brush with a flexible shaft. This type of brush is designed to reach deep into the drain and p-trap, allowing you to scrub the inside surfaces and remove any debris or gunk that may be causing the smell.

To use a wire brush, simply insert the flexible shaft into the drain and use the brush to scrub the inside surfaces. You may need to use some elbow grease to really get in there and scrub away any stubborn blockages. This method can be especially useful if you don’t have access to remove the p-trap, or if you’re dealing with a particularly stubborn clog.

Just be sure to use caution when using a wire brush, as the bristles can be quite stiff and may scratch or damage the inside of your drain or p-trap if used improperly. If you’re not comfortable using a wire brush, or if you’re not having any luck with this method, you can try one of the other techniques mentioned above, such as using baking soda and vinegar or a commercial drain cleaner.