Smell in the toilet, how to get rid of it: main causes and effective solutions

An unpleasant odor that appears in the toilet must be eliminated. It affects the comfort of being in the toilet room and can spread to other rooms.
It is not always possible to solve the problem only by using an air freshener. Depending on the cause of unpleasant odors, a suitable method for solving the problem is selected.

We will tell you in this article how to remove unpleasant smell from the toilet.

Causes of unpleasant odor

An unpleasant odor in the toilet can be due to various reasons. Among them there are several main ones.

Violations in the care of plumbing fixtures


If the plumbing is not properly or regularly maintained, there may be an unpleasant odor from the toilet in the toilet.

This is the most common cause of a repulsive odor . High-quality care should include the use of disinfectants, cleaning and washing the toilet itself.

This treatment eliminates dirt, bacteria, germs, as well as unpleasant odors in the room. Solution to the problem: proper timely care of the toilet.

Blockage

A clogged drain can occur when leftover food is poured into the toilet, and even garbage is flushed away.

Rags, personal hygiene products, bags and other items should not be thrown into the toilet.

Accumulating in the pipe, such debris becomes a good environment for the breeding of pathogenic microorganisms , the proliferation of bacteria and fungus. As a result, the patency of the pipes is disrupted and an unpleasant odor is released.

The solution to the problem is to clean the pipes and continue to keep the plumbing clean.

Installation errors, leakage, wear

Over time, cracks may form in sewer pipes, and the joints of parts may lose their tightness. Sometimes such situations arise even with new equipment if it is installed improperly or low-quality parts are used.

The solution to the problem is troubleshooting , if necessary, replacing elements or the entire system.

Ventilation problems

An improperly organized ventilation system can also lead to stagnation of stench. Or its clogged, which disrupts normal air exchange. The solution to the problem is to troubleshoot the system.

We eliminate foreign odors in the bathroom using an integrated approach

The most likely causes of unpleasant “odors” in bathrooms associated with the operation of water seal fittings are discussed above. However, in order to make the right decision on how to get rid of unwanted odors, the search for their source should be approached comprehensively:

  1. Of course, it all starts with an inspection of the communication elements. In addition to siphons, all sewer lines should also be subject to detailed study. Leaks are detected, most often appearing at the docking points. If droplets of water are detected, the joint should be cleaned of dirt and sealed with silicone sealant. It is better to perform the operation with the connection connector. But if it is impossible to disassemble/assemble it, as a last resort, process it only from the outside.
  2. If a crack is found on the plastic drain pipe, it is best to replace it with a new one. If the metal pipe has a small crack, a temporary clamp with a rubber gasket will help.
  3. It is possible that the sewer lines are made with slight slopes. This leads to stagnation of water and accumulation of decomposing organic sediments. The problem can be solved by altering the drain system in compliance with installation rules.
  4. The washing machine hose will not prevent fumes from escaping from the drain pipes if it is positioned incorrectly. Manufacturers of household appliances recommend forming an S-shaped bend on the flexible hose, and placing its upper attachment point at a height of 50-80 cm. In addition, installing a special siphon for connecting washing units is encouraged.

  5. The source of the odor is sometimes the result of constant moisture accumulation under the bathtub or sink. Over time, fungal formations grow on it, which saturate the air with their harmful spores and gaseous waste products. To eliminate them, it is necessary to thoroughly rinse the affected surface with a disinfectant solution, such as chlorine. Then dry and treat with an antifungal agent. To prevent the accumulation of moisture under plumbing fixtures, the seams where they adjoin the walls must be completely filled with sealants.
  6. Check the cabinet on which the washbasin is installed. It can also cause mustiness in the room. By drilling additional holes in its walls, you can normalize air circulation under the sink. This ensures quick removal of moisture from the bedside table.
  7. A careful inspection of the room may reveal that the smell comes from a laundry basket, a rag lying around, or an old soft toy lying under the bathtub, etc.

Fighting methods


It is quite possible to cope with odors from the toilet in various ways. Good results can be achieved by:

  • folk recipes;
  • fresheners;
  • purchased cleaning products;
  • use of acids, alkalis, chlorine.

Complex processing may require a combination of several options. For example, the use of cleaning products and the use of air fresheners.

How to eliminate it using folk remedies?

Simple ways to combat unpleasant odors allow you to use the means and substances that you already have in your household to achieve the effect.

Soda

Baking soda powder tends to absorb odors . In order to refresh the space of the toilet room, you can place a bowl of baking soda in the room.

Vinegar

In cases where the smell needs to be eliminated quickly, a recipe based on table vinegar is suitable. To do this, pour an arbitrary amount of vinegar into a container with hot water.

The hot solution will evaporate, causing the smell of vinegar to cover up the unpleasant odor from the toilet. The effect of this method is not long-lasting.

Soap

Some types of cosmetic soap have such a strong aroma that they can be used as a scenting agent. A few pieces of this soap will solve the problem if you place them in the toilet room. It is advisable to use soap with the same scent .

Coffee

Coffee beans have the ability to emit a fairly strong characteristic odor. You can take advantage of this by pouring some grains into a decorative bowl. You will have to change the fragrance every 1-2 days.

Essential oils


Natural essential oils have a fairly strong aroma. Their scent develops best when heated.

If there are pipes with hot water in the room, then you can drop a few drops of oil onto a damp handkerchief , which should be placed on the hot pipe.

An alternative option is to apply the oil (a few drops) to the switched off light bulb. When you turn on the light, the oil will evaporate, refreshing the room.

Acid and alkali

Caustic soda can be used to clean the toilet and eliminate odors. At its core, it is an alkali.

Application procedure:

  1. Scoop out the water from the toilet.
  2. Pour in the alkali solution.
  3. Leave for several hours.
  4. Treat with a brush.
  5. Rinse off with plenty of water.

Instead of alkali, you can use products with acid - vinegar, citric acid (it must first be diluted in water), etc.

Such products are simply poured into the toilet and left for several hours. After this, clean the surface and rinse with water. For stubborn stains, re-treatment may be necessary.

Preparations with chlorine

Products containing chlorine, such as bleach, allow you to clean the surface of the toilet , disinfect it and eliminate unpleasant odors. The disadvantage of this use is the specific aroma of chlorine itself and the fact that the substance is toxic.

You can use the whiteness gel by applying it under the headband. It is possible to use chlorine-based preparations as a last resort, using personal protective equipment, and only with good ventilation.

Air fresheners

All air fresheners can be divided into three main groups:


  1. Deodorizing air. Such fresheners neutralize molecules that cause an unpleasant odor.

  2. Masking unpleasant odors. Aromatization of the toilet allows you to hide the unpleasant odor, drowning it out with a pleasant one, with a pronounced fragrance.
  3. Combined means. They combine the first two options.

Air fresheners are available in different forms:

  • sticks,
  • gel,
  • aerosol.

How to get rid of it using special sewer cleaning products?

Purchased products allow you to maintain the hygiene of the toilet - they eliminate not only unpleasant odors, but also limescale and other organic pollutants. The rating of toilet and bathroom cleaning products is presented in this article.

Domestos

Domestos series products are designed for high-quality care and cleaning of the toilet , disinfection of plumbing fixtures and removal of blockages. The cleaning solution is produced in gel form, which is well distributed over the surface. The main active substance is sodium hypochlorite.

If the condition of the toilet is neglected, it is recommended to leave the applied product for several hours to work. With regular use, Domestos works faster. After exposure, rinse off the product with water using a brush.

Advantages of use:

  • elimination of specific toilet odors;
  • disinfection;
  • removal of lime and urinary stones;
  • Ease of use;
  • economical consumption.

The downside is the price. Cost – up to 200 rubles.

Chistin

The product is based on sodium hypochlorite. Available in gel form, which allows for high-quality surface treatment.

Advantages:

  • low price;
  • odor elimination;
  • suitable for all types of pipes;
  • removal of organic deposits.

Minuses:

  • acrid odor;
  • re-processing may be necessary;
  • does not remove lime.

Price – about 70 rubles.

Cilit Bang

The drug is a fairly aggressive gel based on oxalic acid. The product is very effective in cleaning plumbing fixtures and eliminating odors.

Advantages:

  • plaque removal;
  • removal of odors;
  • whitening;
  • disinfection.

Minuses:

  • high price;
  • toxicity;
  • not suitable for metal processing.

Price – about 170 rubles.

Gentle prevention of waste systems

Supporters of everything environmentally friendly, as well as owners of private houses with autonomous treatment plants, are recommended to choose modern bio-friendly preparations or folk remedies to prevent sewage pollution. If such biochemistry does not seem too cheap to you, then to get rid of the bad “aroma” from sewers:

  • pour 2 tablespoons of salt into the drain hole of a bathtub or shower stall for an hour. Then rinse with plenty of cold water;
  • 1-2 tablespoons of baking soda should be regularly poured into sink siphons that gradually become overgrown with fatty deposits in bathrooms, and especially in kitchens. Leave everything overnight, and in the morning rinse thoroughly with hot water;
  • An effervescent reaction of a mixture of soda and vinegar gives a good preventive effect. First, 4 tablespoons of regular soda are poured into the drain, after which half a glass of vinegar is poured there. As a result of abundant gas release, as well as the effect of soda and acid on mud deposits, sewer pipes are cleaned. After the reaction is complete, wait a little and rinse the system with hot water.

Toilet washing rules

High-quality cleaning will help keep your toilet clean and prevent unpleasant odors. It should be carried out with good ventilation and using personal protective equipment.

Toilet cleaning rules:

  1. After soaking a rag in hot water, wipe the entire outside of the toilet.
  2. Using your chosen cleaning product, apply it in a circle under the rim so that it flows over the entire surface of the toilet.
  3. Leave the drug to act for the time specified according to the instructions.
  4. Clean the inner surface of the toilet with a brush. You should definitely pay attention to the bottom and the area near the rim.
  5. Rinse the toilet and brush. To do this, flush the toilet several times in a row.
  6. Once again, more thoroughly, rinse the outside of the toilet.
  7. Disinfect the seat.
  8. Rinse with clean water.
  9. Dry the exterior and seat with paper towels.

Keeping the air clean

keep the air in the toilet clean :


  1. Timely regular cleaning, and periodic general cleaning.

  2. Compliance with the rules of using the toilet - using a brush, rinsing, etc.
  3. Organizing good ventilation in the room.
  4. In case of breakdowns (leaks), timely elimination.
  5. Use of flavoring agents.

Banning smoking in the area will also help keep the air fresh in the restroom.

Violation of tightness

A persistent smell of sewage appears in the room as a result of a leak in the system. In this case, the user must carefully inspect the utility lines and identify leaks. A common reason for the appearance of an unpleasant odor is considered to be a leaky connection between the corrugation and the sewer inlet. If such a defect is detected, replace the corrugated tube and carefully adjust the joining parts using a layer of silicone or sealant.

Plumbing problem: what to do?

If the source of the unpleasant odor in the toilet is due to worn-out equipment or improper installation, you may need the help of professionals. To do this, call a plumber who will inspect the condition of the sewer system and give an opinion on what work will need to be done.

If the cause of the smell is a clogged sewer pipe, you can try to eliminate it yourself or with the assistance of a specialist. To do this, one of the mechanical methods can be used, for example, a special plumbing cable.

If the system is old, the pipes and plumbing are worn out, then replacement of the plumbing equipment may be necessary . The cost will depend on the volume and complexity of the work required.

Incorrectly installed corrugated pipe

If the rules for installing corrugated pipes are violated, an unpleasant toilet smell may also appear. In particular, we are talking about the incorrect formation of a bend on a corrugated siphon pipe. Most often, a simple home craftsman does not know how to properly form a corrugated elbow and secure the hose in this position. The solution to the problem is to create the correct configuration of the corrugation and fix it with special plastic clamps. If you have doubts about your own abilities, you can always invite a professional plumber.

Eliminating tobacco stench

The smell of tobacco after smoking in the toilet can remain for a long time. Turning on the hood, organizing good ventilation, and using odor absorbers will help you deal with it.

Hanging wet terry towels , as well as placing a saucer with chopped fresh apples, will help you deal with the problem faster.

Special household chemicals to remove the smell of tobacco will help remove the aroma after smoking, if it is not old. The tips in this article will help you deal with the smell of cigarettes in the toilet.

Method 2. Mechanical cleaning

The “aroma” of a country toilet is given by the contents of the cesspool located underneath it. It would seem that the most correct solution in this situation is to get rid of waste. No content - no problem. And all the work will be done without your participation - you just need to call a vacuum cleaner. However, in practice, this method of odor control has the greatest number of disadvantages.

Disadvantages of mechanical cleaning of a country toilet:

  • Considering the small areas of summer cottages and the location of the toilet (usually the farthest corner of the yard), it is quite difficult to provide a tank truck with free access to the cesspool.
  • No matter how carefully a sanitation specialist performs his work, the contents of the toilet will still partially end up in the area adjacent to it, and you will have to clean everything up.
  • If the volume of the cesspool near your toilet is small, then you will have to remove waste quite often. And since sewerage services now cost a lot, this can become a significant item in the family budget.

Recommendations

The following tips will help you deal with toilet smell


  1. The toilet seat also needs timely cleaning and replacement, as it can also serve as a source of unpleasant odor and a breeding ground for pathogenic microorganisms.

  2. You can freshen the air in the toilet using a hanging product for your car. It can, for example, be attached to a ventilation hole.
  3. Using steel wool may damage the toilet.
  4. A malfunctioning tank is one of the common problems that can lead to poor flushing of the toilet and, as a result, provoke the appearance of an unpleasant odor.

Rags, buckets of water, dirty brushes and other cleaning products can themselves become a source of unpleasant odors.

You will find a lot of useful and important information about removing various unpleasant odors from objects and surfaces in this section.

Checking the ventilation

A musty smell in a bathroom or toilet can be caused not only by a faulty drainage system, but also by insufficient ventilation. When circulation is disrupted or air is renewed, water vapor is removed slowly, which turns out to be critical for the microbiological balance of a room with high humidity.

It is important to ensure quick drying of the bathroom, especially after completing hygiene procedures or drying clothes. If existing ventilation ducts with gravity draft cannot cope with this task, then it is recommended to install a forced ventilation system.

Smell from the ventilation duct

Sometimes the ventilation duct itself becomes the source of the stench. For example, if some small animal (bird, mouse, rat) is stuck in the ventilation shaft. If you cannot remove the carcass of a dead animal on your own, then you should seek help from professional stove makers, call the dispatcher at the housing office or another company involved in home maintenance. To speed up the resolution of the issue, it is better to submit a written collective application together with your neighbors.

Before the application is completed, the ventilation duct opening will have to be closed. An ordinary plastic film is suitable, which is used to cover the grille from its inside or outside with sizing with tape or masking tape.

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