As yet another heatwave takes hold across the UK, many homeowners are noticing an unpleasant stench emanating from their drains. The warm weather accelerates the decomposition of food waste, soap scum and other grime lurking in pipes, while rising temperatures cause water in U-shaped traps to evaporate more rapidly, allowing sewer gases to seep into homes.
Bathroom specialists at Vidalux.co.uk have shared a range of cheap and simple DIY fixes using everyday items, including a 26p product that can banish drain smells in minutes.
Effervescent tablets: a 26p solution
Andy Ellis, shower and bathroom expert at Vidalux, recommends using effervescent indigestion tablets to tackle clogged drains. He explains: “Similar to white vinegar and baking soda, the fizzy reaction from effervescent indigestion tablets can help loosen debris in clogged drains. Drop a few tablets down the drain followed by a cup of white vinegar. Let it sit for a few moments until the fizzing stops and wash the solution away with hot water.”
A pack of 20 Alka Seltzer tablets costs £5.20 at Boots, working out at just 26p per tablet – a fraction of the price of commercial drain cleaners.
Other household remedies
Ellis also suggests using salt and white vinegar, or even vodka, to help unblock and neutralise odours. “No one wants a foul smell entering their home, which is why it's worth giving your drains a refresh as we head into spring,” he says. “Unknown blockages can start to smell when the weather warms up, and the longer you leave them, the more damage they're doing to pipework – which could leave you with an even bigger and more expensive problem.”
Boiling water and lemon juice are also effective for clearing minor blockages and freshening drains.
Reddit users share their experiences
Smelly drains are a common headache, with many turning to social media for advice. One Reddit user posted: “What can I do about a smelly drain? It's fine when water is running, but the longer it's not used, like overnight, the smellier it is. I've tried bicarbonate and vinegar, a large bucket of water (I read about a dry P trap... sounds painful) and now I've run out of ideas!”
Responses included recommendations for powerful cleaners like Mr Muscle or One Shot, though a warning was issued that One Shot is “extremely corrosive” – gloves and safety goggles are essential. Others suggested checking for a trap under the plug cover clogged with hair and soap scum, or installing an air admittance valve (durgo valve) to prevent vacuum suction from emptying traps.
One user replied: “I also have this problem. It smells like rotten eggs! I've put all sorts down there but it still smells disgusting. Going to try a few of these suggestions today.”
With summer temperatures rising, these cheap and easy methods offer a quick fix to keep drains smelling fresh without breaking the bank.
