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Is Your Toilet Constantly Smelly? Here Are The Possible Causes
By ASHLEY HANSON
Poor Ventilation
Without proper ventilation, the moisture from showers, toilets, and sinks gets trapped, which promotes the growth of smelly mildew, bacteria, and gasses.
To increase air circulation and reduce the humidity levels in your bathroom, install a high-quality exhaust fan, regularly open any windows if you have them, or add a dehumidifier.
Blocked Vent Pipe
The vent pipe is responsible for safely removing sewer gasses from the house. If it gets blocked, the gasses will stay in your bathroom, causing a foul odor.
Since the pipe runs outside, it can become blocked by external debris. Carefully remove visible blockages using a plumber’s snake, and call a professional for more stubborn clogs.
Dry P-Trap
The water in a P-trap prevents sewer gasses from coming up through the plumbing. If you don’t use a particular toilet or sink often, the water may dry up, causing odors.
Periodically run water in toilets, showers, or sinks that you don’t frequently use to keep the P-trap from drying. Add mineral oil to the drain to slow the evaporation process.
Sewer Line Issues
Leaks or cracks in the sewer line allow gasses to escape, resulting in foul-smelling and harmful odors. Contact a professional to assess and repair the damage.
Toilet Tank Buildup
The moist environment of a toilet tank is the ideal breeding ground for bacteria that can cause an earthy or musty smell. Plus, they can be bad for your health.
Fill the tank with a vinegar solution and let it sit for several hours before scrubbing away any lingering growth with a brush. Finally, flush the toilet to rinse out the solution.