Unpleasant odour in the bathroom: causes and solutions

An unpleasant smell in the bathroom is, unfortunately, something many of us have to deal with. The issue can originate in many places – from neglected pipes, through a clogged trap, to spots you wouldn’t even think of. The odour is not only uncomfortable for the senses, it can also point to bigger, hidden problems that need immediate attention. Where should you look for the causes of a nasty smell in the bathroom, and how do you tackle it? Read on to find out.

Unpleasant odour from pipes in an apartment block: a surprisingly common occurrence

Many people living in apartment blocks notice a bad smell coming from the pipes. It can stem from many causes – from old, poorly maintained installations, to blockages caused by food scraps or grime, and even mechanical damage. On top of that, improper pipe connections or the use of low-quality materials can make the problem even more troublesome.

One solution is to use a professional company to inspect the pipes and, if necessary, clean or replace them. Another option is to try home methods for cleaning pipes, such as hot water with bicarbonate of soda and vinegar, or specialist products available in shops.

When it comes to the popular drain unblocker, remember it works for plastic and PVC pipes, but it reacts with and damages installations made of aluminium.

How to remove a nasty smell from the drain: simple and effective methods

Sometimes the source of the unpleasant odour is the drain itself. Many people don’t realise that regularly cleaning traps is one of the key elements of keeping a bathroom clean. Blockages caused by a build-up of hair, soap scum and other substances can lead to bad smells, and can also stop water from draining away properly.

A bad smell from the pipes, shower tray or basin is something you can deal with easily. Using the right cleaning agents, regular cleaning and inspecting the installation can effectively eliminate the problem. And how do you get rid of an unpleasant odour from a shower tray when access to the trap is difficult? You’ll find special brushes on the market for unclogging it – they’re like a flexible wire with short, stiff bristles on the end.

Cleaning the trap is worth doing regularly. You can flush it through with boiling water even once a week. It’s also worth using special drain-cleaning brushes, or trying home remedies such as a mix of bicarbonate of soda and vinegar.

Unscrewing the trap and removing the built-up grime is usually only necessary when you notice the water is draining more slowly than usual, or when an unpleasant smell appears from the shower, bath or basin drain.

Bad smell from the drain – why does the trap smell even though it isn’t blocked?

A smell from the drain isn’t always the result of a blockage. It’s often caused by a dry trap – this special part of the installation acts as a barrier between your home and the sewer network. It works by holding a small amount of water, which forms a barrier to the gases coming up from the pipes.

The problem arises when the water in the trap disappears. This can happen if a fixture isn’t used for a long time, for example a basin in a guest bathroom. When the water in the trap evaporates, nothing is left to stop unpleasant odours entering the bathroom.

Another cause may be damage to this part, or an improper system design that doesn’t allow the right amount of water to be retained. In both cases it’s worth getting a specialist to diagnose the problem and propose the most suitable solution.

How do you remove an unpleasant odour from the bathroom? General tips

Getting rid of an unpleasant odour in the bathroom isn’t always straightforward. It calls for consistency and a bit of effort. Besides regularly cleaning drains, pipes and traps, make sure the room is properly ventilated. Simply opening a window, even for a moment, can often help combat bad smells.

Sometimes the unpleasant odour comes from the washing machine, which isn’t aired properly after each wash – residual water left in the appliance not only causes a musty smell in the room, but can also lead to faster wear or a breakdown. Less often, the source may be laundry left sitting too long, which starts to smell under the influence of bathroom humidity.

As well as keeping the bathroom clean, you can also use air fresheners. A wide range of subtle fragrances will not only mask unpleasant odours, but also make the room nicer to use.

How to remove an unpleasant odour from the toilet bowl: don’t forget hygiene

The solution is simple: regular cleaning and disinfection. Don’t forget to use cleaners designed for toilets, which help keep the toilet bowl free of limescale. Rough limescale deposits encourage bacteria to cling and cause unpleasant odours.

Remember, your bathroom is a place of relaxation and refreshment. Make sure it’s always pleasant for the senses. Follow the tips above and say goodbye to unpleasant odours for good!