Unclog a Smelly Drain With a DIY Drain Cleaner

Introduction

A smelly drain is a common household problem that can occur when organic matter like food scraps, hair, and soap scum accumulate in pipes. The decomposition of this organic matter by bacteria creates foul odors. Fortunately, you can unclog a smelly drain yourself using simple ingredients you likely already have at home to create an effective DIY drain cleaner.

What Causes Smelly Drains?

Smelly drains are most often caused by a buildup of organic matter in pipes. Common culprits include:

• Food scraps from the kitchen sink like fats, oils, and grease
• Hair and soap scum from bathroom sink and shower drains
• Plant matter from bathroom drains

As this organic matter accumulates, it coats the inside of drain pipes and drainage systems. Bacteria then feed on the debris and decompose it. The decomposition process releases foul-smelling gases like hydrogen sulfide, which enter your home through drain openings.

Signs You Have a Clogged Drain

Some common signs your smelly drain is clogged include:

• Unpleasant odors coming from the drain
• Gurgling sounds when water goes down the drain
• Water draining slowly
• Overflowing water when washing dishes or taking a shower

If you notice these issues, it’s likely time to unclog your drain.

Benefits of Unclogging a Smelly Drain

Unclogging a smelly clogged drain offers several benefits:

• Eliminates foul odors coming from the drain
• Prevents overflowing water in sinks or tubs
• Allows water to drain quickly again
• Removes built-up organic matter like hair and grease
• Improves plumbing functionality throughout your home

DIY Drain Cleaning Methods

There are several DIY methods you can use to safely and effectively unclog a smelly drain in your home:

Baking Soda and Vinegar

Baking soda and vinegar create a fizzy chemical reaction that helps break down organic buildup. To use:

1. Pour 1 cup baking soda down the smelly drain
2. Follow with 2 cups heated white vinegar
3. Cover and let sit 30 minutes to an hour
4. Flush with hot water

The combination of the acidic vinegar and alkaline baking soda breaks up gunk, releasing trapped gases.

Salt and Baking Soda

For a stronger cleaner, combine table salt with baking soda:

1. Pour 1/2 cup salt down the drain
2. Follow with 1/2 cup baking soda
3. Flush with boiling water

The salt acts as an abrasive that scrubs away stuck-on gunk.

Boiling Water

A kettle of boiling water can melt and flush away fatty oils and grease clogs. Carefully pour down the drain, letting it sit for 5-10 minutes before rinsing.

Plunger

Using a plunger creates suction to dislodge clogs. Place over the drain opening and plunge up and down rapidly 10-15 times. Finish by flushing with hot water.

Baking Soda and Salt Diluted in Vinegar

For a powerful cleaning solution:

1. Combine 1/4 cup baking soda, 1/4 cup salt, and 2 tablespoons cream of tartar
2. Stir into 2 cups hot vinegar until dissolved
3. Funnel down the drain and let sit 20 minutes
4. Flush with boiling water

Preventing Future Clogs

To help prevent future clogs:

• Install drain screens to catch hair and debris
• Limit pouring fats and oils down the drain
• Regularly flush drains with hot water
• Use a drain maintainer product monthly
• Avoid using harsh chemicals that can damage pipes

When to Call a Plumber

If DIY options don’t unclog your drain, it’s best to call a professional plumber. They have specialized snaking tools to clear tough clogs deep in plumbing pipes. Call a plumber if:

• You’ve tried several home remedies without success
• The clog is in the main sewer drain line
• You have a slow drain throughout your home
• You have sewage backing up

Though smelly clogged drains are a nuisance, in many cases you can successfully unclog them yourself using basic household ingredients. With regular maintenance, you can prevent future clogs and keep your drains free-flowing.