How to Eliminate Bathroom Odors

What causes bathroom odors?

There are several issues that can cause sewer odors, and many of them are due to plumbing problems. Common causes include:

• Leaks – Often caused by improperly placed pipes or vents. Stains on the floor around plumbing fixtures may be telltale signs of leaks.

• Cracked pipes – Pipes can crack due to degeneration or breaks, which leads to leaking sewer gas.

• Blocked air vents – Dirt, debris or other items can cause sewer gas to build up in the pipes and leak into the home.

• Clogged drains – Hair, excess toilet paper or other obstructions can cause sewage to back up and leak into the home.

• Faulty installation – If ventilation or other components are incorrectly installed, it can cause leakage or venting issues and lead to odors that cannot be covered with air fresheners. Also, if the drain pipe doesn’t have the correct slope, the water can stagnate, leading to backup and odors as well as an accumulation of bacteria.

• Dry drain trap – If the traps in the fixture are dry (for example, because of disuse), the water barrier doesn’t block the sewer gas and it vents directly into the house.

• Loose toilets – If they are not properly attached to the floor and sealed to the plumbing (due to the seal missing or being damaged or cracked), sewage gas may seep through the cracks and cause a sewer smell.

• Moisture – High levels of moisture can contribute to mildew and musty odors.

How do you identify the problem?

Now that you know some of the main culprits that cause bathroom odors, you can investigate to see if the plumbing is faulty.

• Check to see if drains are slow. Fill the sink with water and then let it drain out. If it takes a long time, there may be a blockage in the pipe or the vent stack.

• If the water drains out at a normal rate but there is still a smell, the drain may just need to be disinfected.

• If it’s safe to climb on your roof, hold a piece of paper close to the vent pipe while someone flushes the toilet. If the paper is pulled toward the vent, the vent is functioning correctly.

So how do you smell-proof your bathroom?

Once you’ve identified the problem, you can take strategies to eliminate the odors at their source.

Preventive measures

• Use a squeegee: Use a squeegee on shower walls and door after every shower to reduce moisture

• Dry towels and mats: Hang towels and mats to dry between uses to prevent mildew buildup

• Keep it clean: Regularly wipe down surfaces of fixtures and use cleaning products that disinfect surfaces to neutralize odors

• Ventilation: Use an exhaust fan to dissipate moisture and open windows, if possible

Effective strategies for fixing odor issues


• Clean drain pipes: Pour boiling water down the drain to disinfect it, or use baking soda and vinegar. This should also be done every month or two as a preventive measure.

• Do simple plumbing fixes: If you’re a DIYer, you may be able to seal sewer joints or replace the wax ring under the toilet.

• Natural odor eliminators: Activated charcoal air purifiers can absorb odors, and essential oils can add a touch of natural fragrance without harmful chemicals.

• Professional help: If you find that you have plumbing issues, or if the odors persist after taking steps to eliminate them, your best option is to hire a licensed plumber. Ask for recommendations from friends or look at reviews online. Check their credentials and make sure everything is clearly spelled out in writing before starting work.

By following these strategies, you can eliminate unpleasant odors and keep your bathroom fresh and inviting, a place where you can enjoy a personal retreat every day.