How to Fix Your Smelly Shower Drain – Fast!
If you’ve ever stepped into your bathroom and noticed a smelly shower drain or watched water slowly pool around your feet in the shower, you’re not alone. Smelly or clogged bathroom drains are some of the most common household plumbing issues. They’re unpleasant, inconvenient, and can sometimes point to bigger problems lurking out of sight.
The reassuring news is that these problems are usually fixable. A smelly shower drain or a bathtub that isn’t draining properly might seem like a hassle, but with the right information and support, they don’t have to ruin your day.
Whether you’re wondering why your shower drain smells like sewage or you’re struggling with a bathtub that just won’t empty, we’re here to help you tackle the problem and restore comfort to your bathroom.
Why Does My Shower Drain Smell?
A smelly shower drain is a sign that something isn’t quite right below the surface. If you’ve asked yourself “why does my shower drain smell?” or “why does my shower drain smell like sewage?” you’re not alone. Here are some of the most common causes:
Build-up of Hair, Soap Scum and Body Oils
Over time, hair, soap residue, skin cells, and oils from shampoos and conditioners can collect in the drain. This creates a sticky layer that traps bacteria, which in turn causes unpleasant odours.
Mould and Bacteria Growth
Dark, damp spaces like shower drains are the perfect breeding ground for mould and bacteria. As they grow, they release gases that create that musty or stinky shower drain smell.
Dry P-Trap
If you notice a smell coming from a shower that hasn’t been used in a while, the problem might be a dry P-trap. This U-shaped section of pipe is designed to hold water, which blocks sewer gases from rising. When it dries out, those gases escape into your bathroom.
Sewer Smells
If your shower drain smells like sewage, the issue could be more serious — such as a damaged vent pipe, a broken seal, or a blockage deeper in your plumbing system. This type of smell usually won’t go away on its own and will require a professional assessment.
What to Do When Your Bathtub Won’t Drain Properly
If your bathtub is not draining or the bathtub sink is clogged, here’s what could be causing it (and what you can try at home).
Common Causes of Blocked Drains
- Hair and Soap Build-up: Just like in shower drains, hair and soap scum can tangle and clump together in your tub’s waste pipe. Over time, this build-up restricts water flow and leads to blockages.
- Product Residue: Bath oils, salts, and other bath products can leave behind residue that clings to pipe walls and traps debris.
- Blocked Vent Pipe: Your plumbing system relies on proper airflow to function. A blocked vent pipe can stop water from draining effectively, causing slow or noisy drainage.
- Aging or Misaligned Pipes: Older plumbing or poorly fitted pipes may sag or shift, slowing drainage or encouraging recurring blockages.
What You Can Try to Clear a Blocked Drain
- Boiling Water: Carefully pour boiling water down the drain to break up soap scum or product residue.
- Plunger: A few firm pumps with a plunger can help dislodge small clogs near the surface.
- Drain Snake: A simple manual or electric drain snake can be effective at removing hair and gunk deeper in the pipe.
Sometimes, even after trying all the tricks, the water still won’t budge or the drain clogs up again a week later. That’s usually a sign the issue runs deeper, and it’s time to get professional help. Persistent slow drainage could mean a clog further down the line, a damaged pipe, or a system-wide issue that needs proper investigation.
Preventative Maintenance Tips
When it comes to smelly or clogged bathroom drains, a few simple habits can make a big difference in keeping things clear and odour-free. Here’s how to reduce the chances of build-up, bad smells, and blockages before they start:
Use Drain Strainers
Install a strainer over your shower or bathtub drain to catch hair and debris before it enters the pipes. These are inexpensive, easy to clean, and highly effective in stopping the most common causes of clogs.
Avoid Pouring Oils or Greasy Products Down the Drain
Although often associated with kitchen sinks, greasy substances from bath oils and conditioners can stick to pipe walls and trap other materials. Try to limit the use of oil-based products, or flush the drain well after using them.
Establish a Regular Cleaning Routine
Keeping your drains clear doesn’t require a lot of effort. Keep the floor around the drain scrubbed and clear of soap scum. It’s also a good idea to scrub the tiles in your shower.
Use Enzyme-Based Drain Cleaners
Unlike harsh chemicals, enzyme-based products use natural bacteria to digest organic material in your pipes. These are gentle on your plumbing and better for the environment, making them a good option for monthly maintenance.
It’s Time To Call Drainpro
While some minor blockages and smells can be handled with a bit of DIY, there are times when it’s best to bring in an expert. If you’ve tried the usual tricks and the problem keeps coming back, or if you’re noticing more serious signs, it’s time to call in a professional.
Here are a few signs you should reach out to a drainage specialist:
- Your shower drain smells like sewage, even after cleaning
- Multiple drains are blocked or smelly, not just one
- You’ve already tried home remedies, and the issue keeps returning
- Water is backing up into the shower or bath
- You’re hearing gurgling sounds from the drain, which can suggest a blockage further down the line
At Drainpro, we understand how frustrating bathroom drain problems can be. That’s why we offer fast, reliable service across Melbourne using the latest technology. From high-pressure water jetting to advanced CCTV drain inspections, you count on Drainpro to locate and solve the issue.
Need help with a smelly shower or a blocked bath? Drainpro is Melbourne’s trusted name in blocked drain services. Whether it’s a one-off clean or a deeper repair, our expert team will get your bathroom back to normal quickly and professionally. Contact us today on 1300 620 273 or book a service by filling in our online contact form.
FAQ
Why does my shower drain smell, even if it’s not clogged?
This is often due to bacteria, mould, or a dry P-trap. Even without a blockage, organic residue can build up in the pipes and create unpleasant smells. A dry P-trap, especially in an infrequently used shower, can also allow sewer gases to rise through the drain.
How do I clean out a bathtub drain?
Start with a simple flush using boiling water. If that doesn’t help, try removing visible hair or debris with a drain snake or use a plunger to dislodge the blockage. For persistent issues, professional cleaning is the safest option.
Why is my bathtub not draining at all?
This usually means there’s a significant clog caused by hair, soap scum, or product residue. In some cases, a blocked vent pipe or old plumbing can also reduce drainage. If basic DIY solutions don’t work, it may be time for a full inspection.
What does it mean if my shower drain smells like sewage?
A sewage smell could indicate a deeper issue, such as a broken seal, a blocked vent, or a main line blockage. These issues should be looked at by a licensed plumber as soon as possible to prevent further damage or health risks.
Is it safe to use chemical drain cleaners?
Many off-the-shelf chemical cleaners are harsh on your pipes and not environmentally friendly. For regular maintenance, enzyme-based cleaners are a safer alternative. If you’re facing a serious clog, it’s best to let a professional handle it without risking pipe damage.
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.
Enquire Now
TESTIMONIALS
we are very happy with a job well done by Nick! With a fixed price, i knew exactly what it was going to cost me before he arrived. He assessed the problem quickly then dropped a camera in the drain and explained everything to us as he worked! We could see with our own eyes that the drains were free of roots and squeeky clean by the time he had finished! Thank you Nick for a job well done!
(Testimonial from Google)
Wouldn't call anyone else! Spoke with Jim on the phone, he was easy to talk to, honest and knew what he was talking about. Nick was here on time and did his work with pride and care. He explained everything as the work was done and had my problem solved in no time at all. He was even able to check out some other issues and help to fix them as well. I have no doubt that if any problems came up during the work, Drainpro would have the tools and experience to get the job done right the first time for a fair price!
Great company, Great people & Great service!
(Testimonial from Google)
I highly recommend Drainpro. A week ago Jim from Drainpro attended to my drain blockage issue. He took the time to diagnose the problem (due to tree roots), fixed the problem and gave me great advice on how to manage my drains instead of lining it or digging it out and replacing which are very time consuming, costly and not to mention not suitable recommendation for my drains which are still in a reasonably good condition. He took the time also to call and logged a job with my water authority to ensure that they come out to also clear the council drain of roots which is the main cause of the blockage. All this done at a very reasonable price. I have used other plumbers before but Jim from Drainpro is by far the best I have encountered. Jim is very passionate about his work, he is prompt, professional and friendly. I will definitely use him again for my drains issue in the future. Keep up the good work!
(Testimonial from Google)
Discussed problem with Jim on phone. Very rapid service. The blocked drain proved to be quite difficult. Nick was more than equal to the task and remained cheerful throughout. The result is excellent. I can happily recommend Drain Pro.
(Testimonial from Google)
Nick performed an excellent job on our blocked sewer line. He was very friendly and courteous! The flat rate may seem pricey compared to other plumbers, but after seeing Nick at work and how thorough he was I think it was a fair price. Traddies like Nick are very rare these days! Thank you!
(Testimonial from Google)
