The Bathroom Stinks: 5 Quick Fixes to Freshen Up Your Space

Some people say that the cause is due to the bathroom not being scrubbed regularly, others believe that it’s because of inadequate ventilation. However, the reality is different.

There are people who scrub their bathrooms daily and have a window in the room, yet they still experience a foul odor, especially on rainy days. If your home is facing a similar issue, it’s best to take the following five actions to reduce the stench in your bathroom.

1. Replace the drain pipe

The floor drain pipe is not just an outlet for wastewater but also acts as an important barrier to isolate the sewer. Without this “barrier,” bacteria, mosquitoes, and sewer odors can backflow into your bathroom.

Therefore, when constructing a house, it is advisable to choose a floor drain pipe with anti-odor, anti-backflow, and anti-clogging functions. If replacing the floor drain pipe is not feasible, consider using a sewer odor prevention device. These tools are readily available on e-commerce platforms and plumbing supply stores. They will effectively prevent unpleasant odors from rising through the drain pipe.

Additionally, cultivate the habit of regularly cleaning the drain pipe to maintain its cleanliness. Remember to replace the sewer odor prevention device periodically.

2. Inspect the toilet bowl

If you regularly scrub your toilet bowl but still encounter a foul odor, it is likely due to one of the following two reasons:

– The toilet bowl anti-odor rubber gasket is inadequate:

This is a thick rubber ring located at the base of the toilet bowl, acting as a cushion between the bowl’s base and the drain pipe on the floor. It enhances the seal, preventing waste from leaking out and causing unsanitary conditions. It also serves as a gas-tight seal, preventing the escape of foul odors.

Should this rubber gasket become worn out, torn, or damaged, it will fail to provide the necessary elasticity and airtightness. Consequently, it will be challenging to prevent the escape of odors and the leakage of waste from the toilet bowl. In such cases, it is advisable to replace the rubber gasket to avoid the spread of odors and maintain a hygienic living environment.

– Improper toilet bowl installation:

If the toilet bowl is not installed carefully, for instance, if there is a gap between the bowl’s foot and the floor, sewer odors can escape. Similarly, if the pipe connecting the toilet bowl to the underground tank is not properly fitted or does not meet the required standards, waste may become trapped and unable to flow into the septic tank, resulting in the dissemination of odors.

Another potential cause is the absence of a vent pipe, which is crucial for proper toilet bowl functionality. In such cases, it is recommended to call a professional plumber to rectify the installation and ensure the toilet bowl functions optimally.

Furthermore, maintain a routine of regularly cleaning the toilet bowl to prevent the buildup of grime and odors. Always close the lid after using the toilet.

You may also place a toilet bowl cleaner or a perforated toothpaste tube in the tank. This way, each time you flush, the water will flow into the bowl, helping to eliminate bacteria and effectively prevent odors.

3. Inspect the face basin’s drain pipe

The backflow of foul odors into the face basin could be attributed to a loose connection between the water pipe of the basin and the sewer pipe. In such cases, you can seal the gap using materials like rubber, duct tape, or pipe sealant.

Additionally, it is recommended to use a U-shaped pipe for the face basin’s drain pipe to create a bend that prevents odors from flowing backward.

4. Maintain a routine of regularly cleaning the bathroom

One of the most important aspects of keeping your bathroom clean and odor-free is hygiene. Here are some specific practices to consider:

– After using the toilet

It is advisable to flush the toilet immediately after use. Neglecting to do so may result in an unpleasant odor and grime buildup around the toilet bowl. Should you notice any dirt sticking to the bowl after flushing, use a toilet brush to scrub it clean immediately.

– After showering or doing laundry

After shampooing your hair, promptly clean up any fallen hair to prevent clogging the drain and facilitate the prevention of bacterial growth. Wipe down the mirror, toilet bowl, face basin, and bathroom floor regularly. In essence, maintain a dry and clean bathroom to hinder the proliferation of odors and bacteria.

5. Avoid piling up dirty laundry in the bathroom

Dirty clothes should be laundered promptly instead of being piled up in the bathroom, as this can lead to the development of odors and bacteria. Not only does this affect the bathroom’s air quality, but it can also result in the appearance of tiny black spots on the clothing, which are challenging to remove.

Although the bathroom is typically the smallest space in a home, it can significantly impact the overall living environment of the entire family. Therefore, maintaining its cleanliness is essential. Additionally, remember to close the bathroom door after each use to minimize odors and prevent the spread of bacteria to other areas of the house.