Why Your Sink Smells and How to Fix It Fast

March 21, 2025

Why Your Sink Stinks and How to Fix It Fast

You walk into the kitchen, coffee in hand, ready to start your day. Then—bam! A nasty smell hits you like a freight train. Is it last night’s dinner? A forgotten science experiment in the fridge? Nope, it’s coming from the sink. If you’ve ever had this experience, you’re not alone. Luckily, you don’t have to suffer through the stench forever. Let’s get to the bottom of this mystery and clear the air—literally!

Why Does Your Sink Smell So Bad?

Bad smells from the sink usually boil down to a few culprits. Understanding what's causing the stink helps you tackle it effectively.

Food Buildup: Bits of food and grease can get trapped in the drain, leading to bacterial growth. And bacteria? They stink.
Blocked Pipes: If water is draining slowly, there may be a partial clog holding onto grime and creating an odour.
Dry P-Trap: The U-shaped pipe under your sink is designed to hold water, stopping sewer smells from creeping up. If it's dry, those unwelcome smells have a free pass into your home.
Mould and Mildew: If your sink or pipes are damp for long periods, mould can start growing. And let’s be real—mould never smells nice.

How to Get Rid of the Smell—Fast!

Now that we’ve pinpointed why your sink smells, let’s fix it. These simple solutions will have your kitchen smelling fresh again in no time.

1. Boiling Water and Baking Soda

If your sink is draining slowly and emitting an odour, start with this classic fix. Boil a kettle of water, then pour half of it down the drain. Follow up with half a cup of baking soda and let it sit for a few minutes. Chase it down with a cup of vinegar, watching as the fizz works its magic. Finish with the rest of the boiling water to flush out any loosened grime.

2. Scrub the Drain Stopper

Gunk can build up on the drain stopper without you even realising it. Give it a thorough scrub with warm soapy water and a toothbrush to remove hidden grime. If there’s a funky smell lurking here, this alone could make all the difference.

3. Clean the P-Trap

If the smell persists, grab a bucket and place it under the P-trap (the curved bit of pipe under your sink). Unscrew the connections and carefully remove the trap. Rinse it out over a separate sink or outside, removing any trapped debris. Reattach it and let water run for a few minutes to refill it properly.

4. Lemon Freshness

If you have a garbage disposal, freshen it up with some citrus power. Cut a lemon into quarters and toss them in, running the disposal with cold water. The citrus oils will help cut through grease while leaving behind a pleasant scent.

5. Keep It Fresh

Once your sink is stink-free, keep it that way with these simple habits:

Flush drains weekly with hot water and baking soda.
Avoid tossing grease down the sink—it solidifies and causes buildup.
Use a mesh drain cover to catch food scraps before they become a problem.
Run water for a few minutes after using cleaning products to ensure pipes stay clear.

When to Call in the Experts

If you’ve tried these solutions and your sink still smells, the problem could be deeper in your plumbing system. A professional might be needed to inspect for blockages, leaks, or more serious issues.

If you love tackling home maintenance challenges head-on, Strathalbyn H Hardware has everything you need—from drain cleaner to plungers and plumbing tools. Our team is always happy to help with advice and product recommendations to keep your home running smoothly.

Now go enjoy your kitchen without that nasty stink lingering in the background! 😊

Cheers,

Candeece