Dealing with a smelly bathroom sink drain can be a major inconvenience and unpleasant experience. Not only does it create an unpleasant odor, but it can also be a breeding ground for bacteria and germs. However, with the right techniques, you can easily clean and unclog your bathroom sink drain without having to call a plumber. In this article, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 methods to clean a smelly bathroom sink drain and get rid of that unpleasant odor for good.1. How to Effectively Clean a Smelly Bathroom Sink Drain
The first step to effectively cleaning a smelly bathroom sink drain is to identify the source of the smell. The unpleasant odor is often caused by a buildup of hair, soap scum, and other debris in the drain. This buildup can trap bacteria and produce a foul smell. So, before you start cleaning, it’s important to figure out what’s causing the smell.2. Identify the Source of the Smell
When it comes to cleaning a smelly bathroom sink drain, using harsh chemicals is not always the best solution. These chemicals can be harmful to your health and can damage your pipes. Instead, opt for natural cleaning agents such as baking soda and vinegar. These natural ingredients are not only safe but also effective in breaking down the buildup and eliminating the odor.3. Use Natural Cleaning Agents
Baking soda is a versatile cleaning agent that can be used in various household cleaning tasks, including cleaning a smelly bathroom sink drain. It works by neutralizing odors and dissolving any buildup in the drain. To use baking soda, pour 1/2 cup of it down the drain, followed by 1/2 cup of hot water. Let it sit for a few minutes before moving on to the next step.4. Start with Baking Soda
Vinegar is another powerful cleaning agent that can help get rid of the odor in your bathroom sink drain. The acidic properties of vinegar help to break down any remaining debris and eliminate the odor. Pour 1/2 cup of vinegar down the drain and let it sit for 10-15 minutes. You may notice some bubbling and fizzing, which is a sign that the vinegar is working to dissolve the buildup.5. Follow Up with Vinegar
If the baking soda and vinegar method doesn’t work, you can try using a plunger to unclog the drain. Fill the sink with enough water to cover the plunger’s head and place it over the drain. Push and pull the plunger vigorously to create suction and force the debris out of the drain. Repeat this process a few times until the water starts to drain smoothly.6. Use a Plunger
If your bathroom sink has a pop-up stopper, it’s a good idea to remove and clean it as well. Hair and other debris can easily get trapped in the stopper, causing a foul smell. To remove the stopper, unscrew the nut at the back of the drain and pull out the stopper. Clean it thoroughly with a brush and hot soapy water before reinstalling it.7. Remove and Clean the Pop-Up Stopper
Sometimes, all your bathroom sink drain needs is a good flush of boiling water to get rid of the smelly buildup. Boil a kettle of water and slowly pour it down the drain in two to three stages. The hot water will melt any grease and soap scum that’s stuck in the drain and help eliminate the odor.8. Boiling Water Method
If you’re dealing with a stubborn clog, a drain snake can come in handy. This tool is designed to reach deep down into the drain and pull out any debris that’s causing the clog. Push the drain snake down the drain and twist it as you push to catch onto the debris. Once you’ve pulled out the clog, run hot water down the drain to flush out any remaining debris.9. Use a Drain Snake
Prevention is always better than cure when it comes to maintaining a clean and odor-free bathroom sink drain. Make it a habit to regularly pour hot water down the drain and use a natural cleaning agent such as baking soda and vinegar once a week to prevent any buildup. This will help keep your bathroom sink drain smelling fresh and clean.10. Regular Maintenance