Why Does My Bathroom or Kitchen Smell Bad? Causes, Solutions & How to Trace the Source

 

Published by Panthera Technologies

 

Nothing ruins a clean bathroom or kitchen faster than an unpleasant smell. Whether it’s coming from the shower drain, sink, or somewhere mysterious, foul odours are more than just annoying — they’re often a sign of a hidden plumbing issue that needs attention.

At Panthera Technologies, we specialize in identifying, diagnosing, and resolving bad smells from drains, pipes, and underground systems. Let’s explore why these odours happen, what they could mean, and how to get rid of them for good.

 

 

Common Causes of Bad Smells from Sinks and Showers

Dry Traps (P-Traps or S-Traps):
These curved pipes under your sink or shower are designed to hold water that blocks sewer gas from coming up. If a trap dries out (from non-use or a leak), that gas comes straight into your home.

 

Blocked or Dirty Drainpipes:
Food particles, hair, grease, and soap scum can build up inside pipes. Over time, this decomposing gunk gives off a rotten or sulphur-like smell.

 

Biofilm Buildup:
Inside your drains, especially in showers and basins, bacteria can form a sticky layer (biofilm) that causes persistent odours.

 

Sewer Line Issues:
Cracked, blocked, or broken underground pipes can leak sewer gas — sometimes the smell can seep into your home through the walls or floor drains.

 

Improper Plumbing Vents:
Vents allow sewer gases to escape safely outside. If they're blocked or poorly installed, those gases may back up into your kitchen or bathroom.

 

Leaking Downpipes or Floor Waste Connections:
Especially in multi-story buildings or older homes, a misconnected pipe can send dirty water smells right into your living space.

 

How Can You Trace the Source of the Smell?

At Panthera Technologies, we use the following methods:

✅ CCTV drain camera inspections to look deep into your pipes

✅ Smoke testing to trace gas or air leaks in underground systems

✅ Moisture meters to detect hidden leaks in walls or floors

✅ Odour location tracing through plumbing vents and traps

✅ Professional sniff tests and flow monitoring to locate the buildup

These non-invasive tools help us find the root cause without ripping up floors or walls unnecessarily.

 

How Can You Fix It?

Here’s what can be done depending on the cause:

  • Flush and clean traps with hot water, vinegar, and baking soda
  • Regularly run water in little-used drains to keep traps full
  • Clear blockages using professional drain cleaning tools
  • Apply enzyme-based drain cleaners to break down biofilm
  • Repair or replace cracked or collapsed pipes underground
  • Install or fix proper venting systems in bathrooms or kitchens
  • Seal leaks and disconnects from older or damaged connections

We also offer high-pressure pipe jetting and pipe relining — especially useful for recurring odour problems caused by underground damage.

 

Why Choose Panthera Technologies?

With over a decade of experience in plumbing diagnostics, trenchless repairs, and odour tracing, we’re equipped to solve even the most mysterious and persistent smells.

 

  • No guesswork
  • Latest diagnostic tools
  • Expert technicians
  • Non-invasive detection
  • Long-term pipe and drainage solutions

 

Final Tip: Smells Are a Warning Sign — Don’t Ignore Them

If your bathroom or kitchen smells off, don’t just mask it with air fresheners — it could be a warning of a bigger plumbing or health hazard.

 

Let Panthera Technologies inspect and fix it right, the first time.

📞 Book an Inspection Today, We trace it, treat it, and eliminate it — for good.

 

🌐 www.pantheratech.co.za
📞 072 645 9606
📧 info@pantheratech.co.za
📍 Serving homes and buildings throughout South Africa