Nothing ruins the refreshing experience of a shower like a smelly drain or standing water. These annoyances are frequently caused by hair, soap scum, or mold clogs, requiring immediate attention. Otherwise, they could point to deeper plumbing issues that call for professional intervention.
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Causes of a Smelly Shower Drain
A relaxing shower can quickly become unpleasant if you have a smelly shower drain. Understanding the root causes behind this icky smell can help you fix them and stop them from happening in the future.
- Clogged Drain – Soap scum, hair, and other debris can get caught in your drain with repeated use. This buildup will restrict the water flow and begin to decay, releasing a foul odor.
- Dry P-Trap – This U-shaped pipe holds water and stops sewer gasses from entering your home. The gasses can seep into the bathroom and smell if it dries out, usually because of evaporation or sporadic use.
- Leaky Pipes – When your pipes leak, they can cause damp spots under or around the shower. These wet areas are breeding grounds for mildew, mold, and bacteria, causing a nasty scent.
- Mold Growth – Humid and warm conditions, like those in the bathroom, are perfect for mold growth. When it grows inside your drain, it can emit a very distinct and musty smell.
How to Clean a Smelly Shower Drain
Drain cleaning can prevent a smelly shower drain, and it also helps ensure that you have good water flow. If you have a dirty or clogged drain, there are several things you can try, including:
A Toilet Plunger
Using a toilet plunger can be a straightforward way to clear out minor blockages. Fill the tub or shower with enough water to cover the plunger’s base, put it over the drain, and push down and pull up several times. This can help dislodge clogs and allow them to drain quickly.
A Drain Snake
A plumber’s auger or drain snake is a flexible, long tool that can reach deep into your drain and pull out clogs or blockages. To do this, carefully insert the snake into the drain and turn the handle to catch and pull out debris such as hair clumps.
Baking Soda and Vinegar
If you want an environmentally-friendly drain cleaner, mix baking soda and white vinegar at a 1:1 ratio and pour it into the drain. Allow it to sit for 30 minutes before rinsing it with hot water. This solution is excellent for breaking down minor clogs and deodorizing the drain.
How to Prevent a Smelly Shower Drain
If you’re wondering how to clean a smelly shower drain, you can do a few things to eliminate mold, sewage gas, or bacteria. For example, if your P-trap dries, make a point to run water once or twice a month. If you schedule regular drain cleanings, this can help remove dampness and soap scum buildup in your pipes, reducing the odor-causing mold and bacteria. You can also:
- Clean the Drain Cover – Remove it, clean it with hot water and an all-purpose cleaner, and scrub any grime with a toothbrush.
- Deodorize Using Vinegar and Baking Soda – Pour a cup both into your drain, wait 10 minutes, and flush it with hot water.
- Fight Mold – Soak the cover in a bleach-water mix for 10 minutes. Pour a bleach solution into the drain, wait an hour, and then rinse.
Drain Cleaning Services in Clearwater, FL
Keeping your shower drain clean not only ensures you can shower in peace but also prolongs the life of your plumbing. For those in Clearwater, FL, with persistent drain issues, Pinellas Comfort Systems’ drain cleaning services offer expert solutions tailored to your needs. Don’t let drain problems dampen your day; simply book online with Pinellas and ensure smooth-flowing drains in no time.
Do you have clogged pipes or drains? Make sure to get them cleared by booking an appointment online with our EZ Book Online button below!
