Imagine this: You are in the kitchen about to prepare your family’s favorite meal when you notice an awful odor coming from the sink. If this sounds familiar, keep reading!
Luckily, getting rid of a foul smell from the kitchen sink is typically straightforward, but the first step is identifying the culprit. The experts at C&C have some common reasons why a kitchen sink smells unpleasant and what to do about it.
Food Residue and Buildup
One of the primary reasons for a smelly kitchen sink is the accumulation of food particles and grease. Over time, these substances can decay and create terrible odors in your kitchen. To prevent this, use a sink strainer to catch larger food particles when rinsing off your dishes so they don’t end up down the drain.
Mold or Mildew
Mold and mildew thrive in dark, warm, and wet spaces, which makes your kitchen sink the perfect environment for them to grow. Natural substances like baking soda and vinegar mixture are great for eliminating this problem and can disinfect and deodorize simultaneously. Be sure to avoid using harsh drain cleaners, as they can cause significant damage to your pipes.
Bacteria Growth
Allowing stagnant water to sit in your sink for an extended time can lead to the growth of bacteria, which produce an unpleasant smell. Luckily, this one is a relatively easy fix. Regularly running hot water down the drain can flush out any potential odor-causing bacteria.
Garbage Disposal Issues
While garbage disposals are an excellent addition to any kitchen, they can be a breeding ground for terrible smells. Food can get trapped in the disposal blades and crevices, leaving you with an offensive smell. Be sure you rinse your disposal thoroughly after each use to eliminate any potentially trapped food. Don’t hesitate to use citrus fruits – lemons, limes – to freshen the garbage disposal on a regular basis.
By practicing good kitchen hygiene, regularly cleaning your sink and drain, and addressing any plumbing issues promptly, you can keep your kitchen smelling fresh and inviting. If you cannot troubleshoot your smelly sink issue, it may be time to enlist a plumber’s help. For expert assistance in your Central New Jersey home, give C&C a call at 732-860-2660.