Skip to main content

A smelly shower drain can make an otherwise clean bathroom unpleasant. Whether the smell is musty, rotten, or sewer-like, eliminating bad smells in bathroom drains is a common problem. The good news is that removing these odors isn’t as complicated as it may seem.

This guide will help you identify the causes, clean effectively, and prevent those odors from returning.

Why Do Shower Drains Smell?

Before solutions, we need to understand why these foul smells occur. A dirty smell from your shower drain occurs usually due to one (or several) of the following reasons:

1. Bacteria and Mold Growth

Bathrooms naturally contain humidity, thus being an ideal breeding ground for bacteria as well as mold. Over time, bacteria will feed on soap scum, hair, and other organic debris in the drain that tends to produce foul-smelling gases.

2. Clogs and Accrued Debris

A clogged drain does not only slow down the flow of water; it also traps materials that are decomposing. Soap residue, dead skin cells, and hair combine to create a blockage that emits a foul odor when bacteria break it down.

3. Dry P-Trap

The P-trap is the U-shaped pipe under the drain that holds a small amount of water to block sewer gases from coming up. If the shower hasn’t been used for a while, the water may evaporate, allowing unpleasant smells to escape into the bathroom.

4. Plumbing System Issues

If none of the above seems to be the culprit, your plumbing system may have an issue. Problems like poor ventilation or a broken seal in the drain pipes can cause sewer gases to leak into your home.

Tools and Supplies Needed for Shower Drain Cleaning

To effectively get rid of bad smell in bathroom drains, gather the following supplies:

Essential Cleaning Tools:

  1. Rubber gloves
  2. Drain snake or wire hanger
  3. Baking soda
  4. White vinegar
  5. Boiling water
  6. Bucket

Optional Tools for Tough Clogs:

  1. Enzyme-based drain cleaners
  2. Specialized drain brushes
  3. Plunger

Gather these drain cleaners and learn more about the safety tips before starting the process. 

Safety Tips

Given below are a few safety measures to ensure during shower drain cleaning:

● Wear gloves to protect your hands from grime and bacteria.

● Avoid using chemical drain cleaners, as they can damage pipes. Opt for non-toxic cleaners from Branch Basics.

● Always pour hot water carefully to avoid burns.

Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Rid of Shower Drain Odor

Step 1: Inspect the Drain

  • Remove the drain cover and check for visible hair, soap scum, or other debris.
  • Look for black slime or grime. This usually means bacterial growth in the pipes.  
  • The smell could be a symptom of a bigger problem in the pipes if it’s really strong.

Step 2: Remove Surface Clogs

  • Use a drain snake or a wire hanger to grab and pull out hair or gunk.
  • Dispose of the debris in a trash bin; don’t pour it back down the drain.
  • Pour hot water down the drain to clear any remaining loose particles.

Step 3: Clean the Drain with Natural Solutions

  • Pour ½ cup of baking soda directly into the drain.
  • Follow it with 1 cup of white vinegar. You’ll hear fizzing—this means the mixture is working.
  • Wait 15 minutes before flushing the drain with boiling water.

Step 4: Address Persistent Smells with Deep Cleaning

  • If odors persist, use an enzyme-based drain cleaner to break down organic buildup.
  • Check if the P-trap is dry—if so, pour a few cups of water down the drain to refill it.
  • If the issue continues, it may be time to inspect your home’s ventilation system.

Preventing Shower Drain Odors in the Future

Regular maintenance will help foul smell from coming back. Here is how you may maintain a clean odorless drain:

1. Cleaning the Drain Weekly

● Pour hot water every week to prevent buildup. 

● Monthly use of baking soda mixed with vinegar can dissolve residue.

2. Use of Drain Strainers

● A hair catcher or drain strainer can prevent clogs.

● Clean the strainer regularly to prevent debris from piling up.

3. Control Moisture Levels

● Install a bathroom fan or dehumidifier to minimize moisture.

● Keep the shower door open after each use for ventilation.

4. Avoid Harsh Chemicals

● Regularly using chemical drain cleaners may cause pipe corrosion.

● Use natural solutions or enzyme-based cleaners to avoid harsh chemicals for safer maintenance.

Vella’s cleaning staff standing in front of their company van

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning the Shower Drain

Even with the best of intentions, some common mistakes can worsen the situation:

1. Overlooking Minor Clogs

● When left unaddressed minor clogs become severe blockages.

● Clear small build-ups before they become serious issues.

2. Using too many Chemical-based Cleaners

● Chemical cleaners eat away into pipes with time. Use them in moderation. 

● For long-lasting pipes use chemical-free cleaners.

3. Not checking the P-Trap

● If you notice sewer odors, inspect the P-trap to ensure it isn’t dry.

● Pour water into the drain to fill the P-trap and create a proper seal that blocks odors.

4. Not using professional help

● If odors continue to linger after cleaning, it could be a sign of plumbing issues.

● Immediately seek professional help to avoid damage in the long run.

Make sure to add inspecting your shower drains to your weekly deep cleaning schedule to avoid major issues in the long run. Regular cleaning can help save time and effort. 

DIY vs. Professional Drain Cleaning: What’s Best?

DIY solutions for cleaning the sewer are cost-effective as you only need household products to get the job done. But they only work for minor odors and clogs. 

When to Call a Professional

If the following applies to you, we think you need to call a professional:

● If odors continue to come back after cleaning.

● When water pools in the shower due to a severe clog.

● When you suspect an issue with your plumbing system other than the drain.

Benefits of Professional Services

Here’s why professional services are better than DIYs :

● Experts use specialized tools for deep cleaning.

● Professional inspections help identify underlying issues before they worsen.

Why Vella for Shower Drain Cleaning Services

The Vella cleaning staff walks into a client’s home with vacuums and cleaning devices

Vella’s staff in Dallas and Fortworth are specialized in flushing out persistent odors and blockages. They ensure that your drains are thoroughly cleaned. Our team uses eco-friendly solutions that knock out bacteria, grime, and buildup without damaging your pipes.

Unlike DIY methods, our professionals offer the following:

● Deep cleaning services for long-term odor prevention

● Expert plumbing inspections to identify hidden problems

● Safe and effective techniques that can protect your home’s drainage system.
If you have been experiencing persistent shower drain odors, Vella’s cleaning experts can take care of it. Book a consultation today.

Keeping It Spick and Span

Getting rid of bad smells in bathroom drains doesn’t have to be complicated. Follow this shower drain cleaning guide to remove odors, prevent future buildup, and keep your bathroom fresh. Small steps and tips done regularly can ensure a tidy and fresh home

For persistent or recurring odors, consider reaching out to Vella’s professional cleaning services for long-lasting results.

Baking soda is not just for baking. It is a trusted cleaning product that is gentle and effective. It is a powerhouse for tackling stubborn stains. From liquid spills on your favorite shirt to mystery marks on the carpet, baking soda is your reliable cleaning agent. 

But before you start springling it everywhere here are some dos and don’ts. Let’s take a look at them. 

 Vella’s cleaning professional removes the dust and stains from the top of a counter using a microfibre cloth

Understanding Baking Soda’s Stain-Removing Properties

Baking soda is a cleaning wonder and a natural stain remover. It’s a mild alkali, which means it can break down dirt and grease when mixed with water, leaving your surfaces squeaky clean. 

Its tiny, gritty texture works as a gentle scrubber, lifting stains without leaving scratches behind. Baking soda doesn’t just clean—it also neutralizes odors. From greasy messes to mystery spills, this natural cleaner can help you keep your home spotless and fresh-smelling.

Advantages of Using Baking Soda for Stain Removal

Baking soda truly shines when it comes to tackling stains without breaking the bank or risking damage. It’s gentle enough to use on delicate fabrics yet tough enough to scrub away grime from tiles, countertops, or even that coffee mug you love. Plus, it’s readily available in almost every kitchen, making it a go-to solution for last-minute messes. 

Whether you’re dealing with a pet accident, a cooking spill, or an ink mishap, baking soda steps in as a safe, effective, and versatile cleaning champion.

A Vella cleaning professional removes the grease from a stainless steel utensil using eco-friendly products.

Common Stains Treatable with Baking Soda

With its multitasking powers, baking soda can handle a variety of common stains, keeping your belongings spotless. 

  • Oil and Grease: Baking soda works wonders by absorbing and breaking down stubborn oily residues from fabrics and surfaces.
  • Coffee and Tea: Baking soda gently lifts coffee and tea marks from mugs, clothes, and countertops.
  • Ink: It can help reduce the appearance of ink stains, saving your furniture, clothes, or paper.
  • Red Wine: A sprinkle of baking soda helps neutralize and lift the red wine stains before they set.

Do’s of Baking Soda Stain Removal

When it comes to using baking soda for stain removal, following these simple dos will ensure the best results. 

  • Test Before Use: Before diving in, test a tiny amount of baking soda on a hidden spot to make sure it doesn’t affect the color or texture. 
  • Create a Paste: Mix baking soda with a little water to make a paste. It’s easy to apply, stays put on stains, and works well on any stain. 
  • Allow Adequate Dwell Time: Let the paste sit on the stain for 15-30 minutes. This gives baking soda enough time to break down even the toughest messes.
  • Use Gentle Scrubbing: Grab a soft brush or cloth and gently scrub the area. This boosts the stain-lifting power without damaging delicate surfaces.

By following these do’s, you’ll unlock the full potential of baking soda as a natural stain remover. A Scrub Daddy and good-quality baking soda can refresh any area in your home.

Don’ts of Baking Soda Stain Removal

While baking soda is a marvelous stain remover, there are a few don’ts to keep in mind to avoid cleaning blunders. 

  • Avoid Overuse: Don’t go overboard with baking soda. A little can go a long way. Using too much can leave a residue that’s harder to clean. 
  • Do Not Mix with Acidic Cleaners: Mixing baking soda with acidic cleaners like vinegar may seem like a good move, but it’s not. The reaction neutralizes both, leaving you with fizzy water that won’t tackle stains effectively.
  • Avoid Prolonged Contact with Aluminum: Keep the exposure brief on aluminum surfaces. Leaving baking soda on too long can lead to discoloration and ruin the shiny finish.

By steering clear of these pitfalls, you’ll make the most of baking soda’s cleaning powers without creating new problems. 

Special Considerations for Different Fabrics and Surfaces

When using baking soda to remove stains, it’s important to tailor your approach to different fabrics and surfaces.

  • Delicate Fabrics: For fragile fabrics like silk or wool, always dilute your baking soda with water and avoid vigorous scrubbing. 
  • Upholstery: Before treating upholstery, test in a hidden spot to ensure no discoloration. Use minimal water to avoid over-wetting the fabric, which could lead to damage or mildew.
  • Carpets: After applying baking soda to carpet stains, let it sit, but don’t forget the crucial step—vacuum thoroughly to remove all baking soda residue, leaving your carpet fresh and clean.

By following these fabric-specific tips, you’ll safely tackle stains without compromising the integrity of your favorite items.

Vella’s cleaning staff deep cleaning, the table and floor of a house using eco-friendly cleaning products

Alternative Natural Stain Removers to Complement Baking Soda

Baking soda isn’t the only natural stain remover in your kitchen. Here are some alternatives:

  • White Vinegar: This is a powerhouse for alkaline stains (like deodorant marks). It can be paired with baking soda to remove tough stains.
  • Lemon Juice: Its natural acidity makes it perfect for tackling stains on white fabrics. Plus, it smells amazing and works well on yellow marks. 
  • Hydrogen Peroxide: Ideal for organic stains like blood, hydrogen peroxide is a great alternative to baking soda. Be cautious when using it on colored fabrics, as it can bleach them if left too long.

These natural alternatives complement baking soda and offer even more options for stain-busting success.

When to Seek Professional Cleaning Services

While baking soda and other home remedies can handle many everyday stains, there are times when professional cleaning services are the best option. Stubborn stains on your stainless steel utensils may require specialized cleaning solutions. 

Additionally, delicate fabrics such as silk, velvet, or fine upholstery often require expert care to avoid damage. Professional cleaners also have access to advanced equipment and high-quality products that can target deep-set stains and odors effectively, ensuring your home stays fresh and pristine.

 If you’re unsure whether a stain can be handled at home, or if it’s causing significant damage, it might be time to call in the professionals.

Vella’s Commitment to Eco-Friendly Cleaning

At Vella, we believe in keeping your home spotless while being kind to the planet. That’s why we prioritize eco-friendly cleaning practices, using natural cleaning agents like baking soda, and bon ami to remove stains and dirt. 

Our team is trained to tackle stains effectively without relying on harsh chemicals that can harm your health or the environment. Whether you’re dealing with tough stains or need routine cleaning, Vella offers tailored services for homes in the Dallas and Austin areas. We ensure a thorough and safe cleaning experience, giving you peace of mind and a fresh, healthy living space. Trust Vella for all your cleaning needs!