Even if your kitchen sink looks clean at first glance, unpleasant odors coming from the drain may suggest otherwise.
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Fortunately, in most cases, there’s no need to call a plumber to solve the issue of bad smells coming from the kitchen sink.
Instead, try these five simple and effective solutions recommended by cleaning experts. Best of all? You probably already have the products and tools needed to put these tips into practice at home.
1. Pour boiling water down the sink drain
Food residues and built-up grease in the drain are common causes of strong odors. Over time, these leftovers rot and start to release unpleasant smells, warns Ashley Kidder, cleaning expert and director of operations at Dashing Maids. The immediate and practical solution is to pour boiling water down the drain, which helps dissolve grease and push the debris through.
If the sink is draining slowly, this is a clear sign of buildup, according to Jade Piper, operations manager at BetterCleans.
2. Combine dish soap, baking soda, and vinegar
If the smell persists, a deeper cleaning may be needed. Maria Mock, president of Molly Maid, recommends a powerful homemade trick to eliminate the sink drain odor:
- Put some dish soap down the drain.
- Next, pour boiling water to dissolve the grease.
- Add 1 cup of baking soda followed by 1 cup of distilled white vinegar — the fizzing reaction helps to unclog.
- Wait 5 to 10 minutes and finish with more boiling water.
This combination is highly effective in removing organic residues and neutralizing odors.
3. Use an enzymatic drain cleaner
Another safe and effective option is to use enzymatic drain cleaners, which break down organic matter without damaging the pipes. This alternative is less harsh than corrosive chemical products and still eliminates bad sink odors in a sustainable way.
4. Check and clean the P-trap
The P-shaped trap (or P-trap) located under the kitchen sink is designed to hold water and block sewer gases. If it’s dry or clogged, it can allow unpleasant odors to escape, explains Kidder.
Follow these steps to check and clean the P-trap:
- Run water for 10 to 15 seconds to fill the trap, if no blockages are present.
- Place a bucket under the trap to collect debris.
- Loosen the nuts on each side by hand or with an appropriate tool.
- Remove the trap and clean the inside with water or a specific tool.
- Reinstall and test with running water. If the issue persists, professional assistance may be needed.
5. Clean the garbage disposal and splash guard
Food debris can also accumulate under the rubber splash guard of the garbage disposal, causing odors. Maria Mock recommends turning the unit off before cleaning. Use a non-abrasive sponge with multi-purpose cleaner to clean the underside of the rubber.
After manual cleaning, Ashley Kidder suggests grinding ice cubes with lemon peels or using a product specifically for disposals. Citrus fruits are natural deodorizers, help cut grease, and leave a pleasant scent in the space.
Preventive tips to avoid sink odors
The best way to prevent odors is to clean the sink regularly and avoid food residue buildup. After washing dishes, rinse the drain with warm water and use a separate sponge to scrub the sink with dish soap.
Once a month, use a drain plunger as a preventive measure. If bad smells persist even after cleaning, it may be time to call a professional.
Source: The Spruce
This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
