Got a smelly sink? Learn the top reasons behind sink odors and how to fix them with expert tips from Cavinder, your South Bend and Granger plumbing professionals.
Smelly Sink? Here's What Might Be Going On
You walk into the kitchen or bathroom and there it is. That unpleasant, musty, or downright foul odor coming from the sink. If you’ve noticed strange smells in your Granger, South Bend, or Elkhart home, you’re not alone. At Cavinder Plumbing, Heating and Cooling, we get frequent calls from homeowners dealing with smelly sinks, and we’re here to help you get to the bottom of it.
Let’s explore the common causes of sink odors, how to fix them, and when it’s time to call your local plumbing pros.
Top Reasons Your Sink Might Smell
- Food or Grease Buildup in the Drain
Over time, food particles, grease, and soap scum can accumulate inside your kitchen sink drain. This creates a breeding ground for bacteria, which causes that sour or rotten smell.
Solution:
- Pour a mixture of baking soda and vinegar down the drain. Let it fizz for 10–15 minutes, then flush with hot water.
- Avoid dumping grease down the sink, dispose of it in the trash instead.
- Dry or Dirty P-Trap
The P-trap is the curved pipe under your sink that holds water to block sewer gases. If the sink isn’t used often, the water can evaporate, allowing smells to rise into your home.
Solution:
- Run water in rarely used sinks at least once a week.
- If the trap is dirty or clogged, clean it out manually or call Granger plumbing professionals like Cavinder for a quick fix.
- Clogged Vent Pipe
Your home’s plumbing vent pipe allows sewer gases to escape safely through your roof. If it’s clogged (often by leaves, debris, or even snow in Northern Indiana), those gases can back up into your home.
Warning Signs:
- Smelly drains in multiple areas
- Gurgling sounds when water drains
Fix: This is a job for professionals. Call your South Bend plumbing and HVAC experts for a safe inspection and repair.
- Bacteria in the Overflow Drain (Bathroom Sinks)
If your bathroom sink has an overflow drain, it can collect gunk and bacteria over time, especially in humid environments like Mishawaka or Elkhart.
Solution:
- Use a small brush dipped in disinfectant or white vinegar to scrub the overflow opening.
- Rinse thoroughly with hot water.
- Garbage Disposal Issues
If your kitchen sink has a garbage disposal, trapped food waste can rot and smell awful, especially if the blades aren’t cleaning properly.
Quick Fix:
- Grind a few ice cubes and citrus peels (like lemon or orange) to clean and deodorize.
- For deeper cleaning, try a disposal-safe cleaner or call Cavinder for service.
Is the Smell a Sign of a Bigger Problem?
Occasional odors are normal, especially after cooking or long vacations. But persistent or severe smells might point to more serious issues like:
- Sewer line backups
- Damaged or misaligned plumbing
- Mold growth inside pipes or walls
If you’ve tried the tips above and the smell keeps coming back, it’s time to bring in a licensed plumber to investigate.
Preventing Sink Odors: Simple Tips for Local Homeowners
- Run hot water after each use to flush debris
- Use natural cleaners (baking soda + vinegar) weekly
- Avoid dumping fats, oils, and coffee grounds down the drain
- Have your plumbing system professionally inspected every 1–2 years
Let Cavinder Clear the Air And Your Drains
At Cavinder Plumbing, Heating and Cooling, we’ve helped homeowners across Granger, South Bend, Elkhart, and Mishawaka solve their toughest plumbing issues. Whether it’s a quick drain cleaning or a deeper system check, our friendly, experienced team will get to the root of the problem fast.
Dealing with a stinky sink? Call Cavinder today for a free estimate or to schedule a professional drain inspection!
