The kitchen is a gathering spot in many households, which is why most homeowners strive to keep it sparkling clean. However, if you notice a lurking odor, no matter how many times you wipe down the countertops, mop the floors, and take out the trash, you likely have a problem beneath the surface — namely, your kitchen sink. Here are some of the top causes of these smells and some simple drain cleaning methods to mitigate the issue. 

What’s Causing That Kitchen Sink Odor? 

1. Rotten Food

While your garbage disposal is a helpful tool for discarding small pieces of food, it should never be used as a trash can. Items such as grease, fat, coffee grounds, and pasta can pile up over time and clog the pipes. When this food starts to rot, the pungent odor will waft up through your kitchen sink.

Try running a few cups of ice cubes down the disposal, along with cold water, to knock the food off of the blades. Add a lemon or an orange peel to the mix for a pleasant citrus smell. If this doesn’t work, try putting half a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by 1 cup of vinegar. Let the solution foam and sit for a few minutes, then follow it with hot water.

2. Broken Trap

If you smell sewer gas coming from your sink, you might have a problem with the trap, or the U-shaped pipe found beneath the sink that keeps sewer gases from coming indoors. If you haven’t used the sink in a while  — such as after a long vacation — the water can evaporate and let in a bit of gas. To fix this issue, simply run water down the drain. However, if you notice the trap is leaking when you run water, you’ll need to call a drain cleaning professional for repairs. 

3. Blocked Vent

If you notice a sewer smell but have ruled out an issue with the trap, it’s likely because of a clogged vent. This part stabilizes sewer pressure and sends any back-flowing gases out through the roof of the house. If an animal’s nest, dirt, leaves, or other debris are blocking the vent, the gases may be forced back through your drains. 

If you can’t keep your kitchen sink smelling fresh, reach out to the team at Roto-Rooter in Toccoa, GA, for professional drain cleaning. Their licensed and insured team can perform a camera pipe inspection to figure out the source of your odor, then provide an efficient, long-lasting solution. Whether you need hot-water jetting or a pipe repair, they’ll help you make your kitchen a space you’re proud to gather. Visit them online to learn more about their services or call (706) 839-7277 to schedule drain cleaning today.