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Why Does My Kitchen Sink Smell?
| Whether you use your kitchen sink constantly or only rarely, unpleasant odors can be unbearable. There are a number of reasons explaining the “sink stink.” Some are easily remedied while others can be serious. |
Little to No Use
The U-shaped pipe found under most kitchen sinks will typically have just a little bit of water. If the sink has been unused for a while, the water will evaporate and allow sewer gas to come through the drain. If water is run through the pipes and the smell disappears or dissipates, this is likely the cause.
Grease in the Drain
This is the most common reason for a smelly sink drain. It smells like mold or rotten eggs. If grease is poured into the sink drain, it can congeal around the sides of the drain pipes and then decompose, causing this really unpleasant smell. To eliminate this problem, avoid pouring grease down the sink. But, if it’s too late for that, try putting a couple of teaspoons of baking soda in the drain, follow with white vinegar, then follow that with a large pot of boiling water. This recipe will work together to create a foam that will eliminate the grease and the odor.
Garbage Disposal
If there’s a garbage disposal, scraps of food can get stuck on the blades and creating a rotting smell. To prevent this beforehand, run hot water down the drain for 30 minutes after using the disposal. If the smell is already present, run some ice cubes through the garbage disposal. Follow that will some orange or lemon peel to replace the rotten smell with a pleasant citrus scent.
Blocked Plumbing Vent
| Check the vent for obstructions and remove them. To prevent future obstructions, install a screen over the vent. |
While stinky sinks are a huge bother, you’ll enjoy kitchen time again once the odor is gone. If you’re looking for a new kitchen sink or want to update the one you have, browse the selection at Kingston Brass.
