Tips

The Stinky Shower Drain Solution

The sweltering summer heat can often result in a putrid stench emanating from bathroom drains, accompanied by the presence of tiny black insects.

Administrator

15 July, 2024

The main cause of this issue is the buildup of debris such as hair and fabric fibers inside the drain, creating an environment for bacteria to thrive and causing unpleasant odors.

Check out the following tips to address this problem.

Prepare a bowl of boiling water and add a small amount of detergent. Stir well to dissolve the detergent. Slowly pour this solution around the drain cover.

Detergent is an effective cleaning agent, and when poured down the drain, it can help remove accumulated grime and clean the inside of the pipes. This method also helps eliminate drain odors due to the pleasant fragrance of the detergent. Additionally, boiling water can kill small insects and their eggs in the pipes.

However, during the summer, insects breed rapidly. After a few days, the drain may still emit a foul odor and small insects may reappear. For a more permanent solution, consider the following method:

Used soap scraps can be reused to eliminate drain odors. Image: *aboluowang*

Take used soap scraps and place them in a mesh bag. Secure one end of the bag to a sturdy string and tie the bag under the floor drain cover. Ensure that the bag is securely tied to prevent it from coming loose and falling into the drain, causing blockages.

The bag of soap under the drain cover will not affect the water drainage rate. Moreover, when the soap comes in contact with water, it dissolves and flows down, cleaning the inside of the pipes and releasing a pleasant fragrance. Soap also has alkaline properties, creating an environment inhospitable to small insects and their eggs, effectively eliminating them.

Tying the soap bag under the drain cover does not affect water drainage. Image: *aboluowang*

Alternatively, you can use baking soda and lemon to remove built-up residue in the pipes and eliminate odors. Pour lemon juice and baking soda down the drain, or mix the two ingredients in a 1:1 ratio and pour the mixture directly into the drain. Let it sit for about two hours or leave it overnight with the cover closed. The chemical reaction between baking soda and lemon will accelerate the breakdown of waste and grime in the pipes.

For optimal results, prepare about three liters of boiling water and slowly pour it down the drain before rinsing with regular water.

The drain cover not only blocks debris and trash but also prevents odors from escaping. Image: *abolowang*

Additionally, you can use drain-cleaning powder or a drain cover with an odor-blocking function to address this issue.

Trang Vy (According to aboluowang)

Frequently asked questions

The shower drain can emit a foul odor due to a buildup of hair, soap scum, and other debris, creating a breeding ground for bacteria and mold. This can be exacerbated by water that doesn’t drain properly, leaving a stagnant environment for these organisms to thrive.

To eliminate the stinky shower drain issue, a two-pronged approach is recommended: first, clear any blockages, and second, disinfect the drain. For the first step, use a drain snake or a bent wire coat hanger to remove hair and gunk. Then, pour a pot of boiling water down the drain, followed by a natural disinfectant like baking soda and vinegar, or a chemical cleaner.

A natural, eco-friendly way to clean and deodorize your shower drain is to use baking soda and vinegar. First, pour a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by a cup of vinegar. Let the mixture fizz and work its magic for about 30 minutes, then flush it with a pot of boiling water. For tougher clogs, use a drain snake before applying this natural cleaner.

It is recommended to clean your shower drain at least once every three months to prevent odors and maintain proper drainage. However, if you have long hair or shed a lot, you may need to do it more frequently, perhaps once a month. Regular maintenance will help keep your shower drain smelling fresh and functioning properly.

Some telltale signs that your shower drain needs cleaning include a slow drainage rate, frequent clogs, and of course, a putrid odor. If you notice any of these issues, it’s time to take action and give your shower drain some attention. Remember, regular maintenance is key to preventing stubborn clogs and unpleasant smells.