How to Get Rid of a Smelly Shower Drain

A shower drain with a bad smell usually got that way due to a buildup of dirt, grime and hair in the drain. In addition to the bacteria breeding in your drain and the bad odor, this buildup can produce clogs over time. Cleaning out a shower drain is a good way to reduce or get rid of the smell all together--and save yourself some plumbing troubles in the future.

Things You'll Need

• Flathead screwdriver
• Large bucket
• Bleach
• Hot water

Instructions

1. Remove the shower drain cover. Use the flathead screwdriver if you cannot pry it off with your hands. If there is a holding screw in the center of the cover, remove that screw so that you can remove the drain cover.

2. Pull out any hair or blockage that is visible or close to the opening. You can also gently use the screwdriver to reach clumps of hair.

3. Place three parts hot water and one part bleach into the bucket and mix well.

4. Pour the mixture slowly down the drain, allowing the liquid to drain without overflowing the drain opening.

5. Wait 5 to 10 minutes. Then, turn on the hot water and allow it to run for a few minutes.

6. Replace the shower drain cover. You can also pour some of the bleach water mixture on the cover to clean the drain cover.

Tips & Warnings

• Use drain cleaners such as Drano on a regular basis to prevent buildup of clogs in the pipes.

• Watch out for splashback from the drain or bleach mixture. Do not mix bleach with other chemicals or cleaning agents.

References

• Foul Odor from Shower and Sinks