Smell Under Kitchen Sink? 10 Hidden Causes You Must Know!
The smell under the kitchen sink was impossible to ignore! I noticed it one morning while grabbing a trash bag, and it hit me like a ton of bricks.
At first, I thought it was just a stray piece of food, but no matter how much I cleaned, the bad odor lingered.
With time I noticed a small leak soaking into the wood beneath and created a dampness leading to a musty smell.
But soon I fixed it with a few DIY tips, let me share what worked for me!
Firstly,
Common Causes of Smell Under the Kitchen Sink
The stinky situation under the sink is something that needs to be specially attended to.
Here are the common causes of smell under the kitchen sink.
1. Clogged Drains
When food scraps, grease, and grime build up in your sink’s drain, they can cause serious funk.
Over time, this trapped gunk becomes a breeding ground for bacteria, leading to unpleasant odors.
2. Leaks
Tiny, undetected leaks in your plumbing can create moisture under your sink.
This damp environment is a perfect playground for mold and mildew, which have a musty, earthy smell.
3. Garbage Disposal Issues
If you’re lucky enough to have a garbage disposal, you know how convenient it can be.
However, leftover food bits can stick around and start to rot, causing your sink area to smell like yesterday’s leftovers.
4. Trapped Moisture
Even if there’s no major leak, condensation can lead to damp conditions.
Add in a forgotten sponge or a spilled cleaner bottle, and you’ve got a recipe for odor trouble.
5. Pests
As unpleasant as it is to think about, rodents or bugs might be the source of the smell.
They can leave behind droppings or even worse, make a nest in your cozy under-sink area.
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Other Common Causes of Smell Under the Kitchen Sink
Here are the other common causes of smell under the kitchen sink:
6. Improper Ventilation: Without proper airflow under the sink, moisture can accumulate, leading to a damp, moldy smell.
7. Expired Cleaning Products: Old cleaning supplies or chemicals under the sink can degrade, emitting a sour or chemical-like smell.
8. Rusting Pipes: Older, corroded pipes can cause rust stains to release metallic odors when moisture seeps into the rusted areas, contributing to unpleasant smells under the sink.
9. Soap Scum Accumulation: Old soap scum and detergent residues can cling to surfaces, attracting bacteria that cause unpleasant smells.
10. Bacterial Growth: A buildup of bacteria in damp, dark corners under the sink can lead to foul smells, particularly if there’s stagnant water or moisture.
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Fixing the Smell Under the Kitchen Sink: Step-By-Step Guide
It’s time to roll up your sleeves and get rid of that smell. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Clear the Area
Take everything out from under your sink. You might find a soggy sponge, spilled soap, or even evidence of pests.
Clearing the area gives you a fresh start and lets you inspect the space thoroughly.
Step 2: Inspect for Leaks
Check all the pipes, fittings, and joints. If you find any drips, tighten the connections or replace damaged parts.
Remember to dry the area completely before proceeding to the next step.
Step 3: Clean the Garbage Disposal
Here’s a quick and effective method:
- Toss in a handful of ice cubes and a few citrus peels.
- Run the disposal with cold water for a minute.
- The ice helps dislodge debris, while the citrus leaves a refreshing scent.
Step 4: Unclog the Drain
A clogged drain can make matters worse. Use this DIY trick:
- Pour half a cup of baking soda into the drain.
- Follow it with half a cup of white vinegar.
- Let it fizz for 5-10 minutes, then flush with hot water. This simple solution helps dissolve gunk and kills odor-causing bacteria.
Step 5: Deep Clean the Cabinet
Using a mix of equal parts vinegar and water, wipe down the inside of the cabinet thoroughly.
Pay extra attention to corners and edges where grime and mold tend to accumulate.
Step 6: Address Pests
If pests are the issue, clean up any droppings and seal potential entry points with caulk.
Consider setting traps or consulting a pest control professional for stubborn infestations.
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How To Prevent Smell Under Kitchen Sink
Here are a few ways how you can prevent smell under the kitchen sink:
- Use Moisture Absorbers: Place a small bowl of baking soda or a moisture-absorbing packet under the sink to reduce dampness.
- Clean Drains Regularly: Once a month, flush your drains with hot water and a vinegar solution to prevent buildup.
- Declutter the things: Store items like cleaning products in bins to catch spills and make cleanup easier with a 15-minute decluttering session.
- Check for Leaks Frequently: Regularly inspect your pipes for any signs of wear or dripping.
Suggested Read: Why Does My Laundry Room Smell Like Sour Milk: 8 Top Causes!
Conclusion
Dealing with a smell under your kitchen sink can feel like an uphill battle, but it doesn’t have to be!
By identifying the cause, taking practical steps to clean and repair, and following preventative measures.
You can keep your kitchen smelling fresh and inviting. Remember, a little regular maintenance goes a long way.
So, the next time you catch a whiff of something unpleasant, you’ll know exactly what to do.
Suggested Read: 16 Best DIY Solutions to Get Rid of Musty Smell in Basement!
FAQs About Smell Under the Kitchen Sink
1. Why does my sink smell like rotten eggs?
That sulfuric, rotten egg smell is usually due to bacteria producing hydrogen sulfide gas. Cleaning your drain and garbage disposal should fix the problem.
2. Is the smell under the sink harmful?
While most odors are just unpleasant, some (like mold or sewer gas) can pose health risks. If you’re unsure, it’s best to consult a professional.
3. What if the smell doesn’t go away after cleaning?
Persistent smells might indicate bigger issues like sewer gas leaks or extensive mold growth. In such cases, calling a plumber or a mold remediation expert is a wise move.
4. Why musty smell under the kitchen sink no leak?
Even though there is no leak there is a possibility of condensation and the old wood material catching the moisture creating the stinky smell under the kitchen sink.
