A smelly drain can be a real nuisance in any home, and it can be difficult to get rid of the odor. One effective solution for cleaning a smelly drain is to use hydrogen peroxide with baking soda.
In this article, we will discuss how to use hydrogen peroxide to clean a smelly drain, how often you should use it, and why it works.
What You’ll Need:
1 cup 3% hydrogen peroxide
1 cup baking soda
Hot water
Steps:
- Start by pouring 1 cup of hydrogen peroxide down the drain.
- Next, add 1 cup of baking soda and let it sit for 5-10 minutes.
- Run hot water down the drain for 1-2 minutes to flush away the cleaning solution. This will help to remove any remaining debris or grime, and will also help to rinse away any lingering odors.
- Check the drain. If the odor is still present after the initial cleaning, you may need to repeat the steps again to fully eliminate the odor.
Important Note:
If the smell persists and you have repeated the steps several times, it’s a good idea to check for any blockages in the pipes or for any other underlying issues that could be causing the odor.
Also, don’t forget to use protective gear like cleaning gloves and face masks when cleaning.
How Often Should You Use Hydrogen Peroxide to Clean a Smelly Drain?
It’s recommended to use hydrogen peroxide to clean a smelly drain once a month, although you may need to use it more frequently if you notice a particularly bad odor.
Why They Work
Hydrogen peroxide is an effective cleaner because it is a powerful oxidizer. When it comes into contact with organic matter, such as food particles or bacteria, it breaks it down, eliminating the source of the odor.
Baking soda also works to clean smelly drains by raising the pH level in the drain, making it more alkaline. This causes any acidic substances, such as food particles or bacteria, to neutralize, which helps to eliminate the source of the odor.
Additionally, baking soda is a mild abrasive which helps to scrub away any built-up grime or debris that may be contributing to the odor.
The combination of both ingredients will work together to clean and deodorize the drain effectively. Additionally, using baking soda and hydrogen peroxide is a safe and eco-friendly alternative to chemical drain cleaners.
When to Call a Plumber
While using hydrogen peroxide and baking soda to clean a smelly drain can be effective, there may be times when the odor persists despite your best efforts. In these cases, it may be necessary to call a plumber.
Some indications that it’s time to call a plumber to include:
- The odor persists even after multiple cleaning attempts
- The drain is slow to drain, indicating a blockage
- You can see mold or mildew growing in the area around the drain
- You hear gurgling noises coming from the drain
If you suspect that there may be an underlying issue causing the odor, such as a blockage or a broken pipe, it’s best to call a plumber for an inspection.
A plumber will be able to identify and fix any underlying issues that may be causing the odor, ensuring that your drains are clean and odor-free.
Additionally, they can also give you more tips and advice on how to maintain and prevent any future odor from your drain.
Conclusion:
Using hydrogen peroxide and baking soda to clean a smelly drain is an effective and easy solution. By following the simple steps outlined above, you can eliminate odors and keep your drains smelling fresh.
With the benefits of being a safe and eco-friendly cleaning solution, Hydrogen peroxide is a great alternative to harsh chemical cleaners.
Looking for more cleaning tips? See How to Clean a Bathroom Exhaust Fan with Vinegar.
Thanks for reading my blog.
-Baking Soda Guy
