A smelly shower drain can quickly turn your bathroom from a relaxing space into an unpleasant one. But beyond the bad smell, it might indicate underlying plumbing issues that need attention.
In this guide, we’ll cover the top causes of shower drain odours, how to fix them, and simple ways to keep your drain smelling fresh.
🔍 What Causes a Smelly Shower Drain?
A foul odour from your shower drain is often caused by one or more of the following problems:
1. Biofilm Build-up
What it is: A slimy layer made up of bacteria, soap scum, and organic material that builds up in pipes.
Smell: Musty, sour, or similar to rotting debris.
Fix: Regular cleaning breaks down biofilm and stops the smell.
2. Dry or Dirty P-Trap
What it is: The curved pipe under your shower designed to hold water and block sewer gas.
Smell: Sewage-like odour, especially if the shower hasn't been used in a while.
Fix: Run water to refill the trap. Clean it periodically to remove debris.
3. Clogged Shower Drain
What it is: Hair, soap scum, and grime can clog your drain, creating a breeding ground for odour-causing bacteria.
Smell: Rotting or gassy odour from stagnant water.
Fix: Remove clogs with a drain snake or plunger. Use a drain screen to prevent build-up.
4. Leaky Pipes or Sewer Line Issues
What it is: Cracks or leaks in your plumbing system that allow sewer gas to escape.
Smell: Persistent, strong sewer gas smell.
Fix: Often requires professional plumbing inspection and repair.
🛠️ How to Get Rid of Shower Drain Smells: Step-by-Step
âś… 1. Clean Your Shower Drain Naturally
Use this homemade remedy to eliminate drain odours:
Pour ½ cup of baking soda down the drain.
Follow with ½ cup of white vinegar.
Cover the drain and let it sit for 15 minutes.
Flush with hot water to wash away build-up.
âś… 2. Check and Refill the P-Trap
If your shower isn’t used regularly, the water in the P-trap can evaporate. Simply run the water for a few minutes to restore the water barrier and eliminate the smell.
âś… 3. Clear Out Hair and Debris
Remove the drain cover and pull out visible clogs using a drain snake or plunger. Hair traps or screens can help keep your drain clear long-term.
âś… 4. Inspect for Plumbing Leaks
Persistent smells, even after cleaning, may signal a deeper plumbing issue. Check for moisture or water damage around the shower area. If you suspect a leak or broken vent pipe, call a professional plumber.
âś… Prevent Smells from Returning: Maintenance Tips
To keep your shower drain from smelling bad in the future:
- 🛡️ Use a drain screen to catch hair and soap scum
- ♻️ Clean the drain every 1–2 weeks with baking soda and vinegar
- đź’§ Run water in rarely used showers to keep the P-trap filled
- đźš« Avoid pouring grease or oils down the drain
🔧 When to Call the Professionals
If you’ve tried all the above and your shower drain still smells bad, it could be due to:
- A broken sewer vent pipe
- Hidden plumbing leaks
- Clogs deep within the drainage system
In these cases, it’s best to hire a licensed plumber to properly diagnose and fix the issue.
âť“ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why does my shower drain smell even after cleaning it?
Persistent odours may be caused by a dry P-trap, deeper clogs, or leaks in the pipes that require professional inspection.
Is a smelly shower drain dangerous?
While not usually harmful, smells from sewer gas or bacteria can affect your indoor air quality and health if left untreated.
How often should I clean my shower drain?
To avoid bad smells, clean your shower drain every 1–2 weeks and use a drain screen to catch debris.
âś… Final Thoughts
A smelly shower drain is a common household issue, but it’s completely manageable with regular maintenance and a few simple tools. Whether it’s hair, bacteria, or something deeper in your plumbing, identifying the cause early is key.