You’ve heard that phones, keyboards, and cutting boards have more bacteria than a toilet seat. But here’s another one you weren’t expecting: pillowcases. So that drool from last night is not quite as harmless as it seems.
These surprising fun facts give the impression that a toilet seat is a remarkably clean place – until it starts smelling. Toilet odor is insufferable, and can make you nauseous. What’s causing that horrid smell, and how can you eliminate toilet odor?
Today we take a look at one of the most common bathroom smells, and how to prevent it.
What Causes Toilet Odor?
The cause of toilet odor might seem obvious. It’s all the fecal matter and urine that gets put there every day. Sure, this is part of the issue, but there are other contributing factors.
The first cause for bad toilet odor is, naturally, a dirty toilet that needs cleaning. But eliminating that, other causes could include:
- Bacterial growth
- Mildew
- A dry P-trap
- Sewage backup
- A bad wax ring
As you can see, some of the causes are completely unexpected. Some can even, strangely, originate from the tank, which only has clean water inside. Let’s examine the most common causes and ways to prevent bathroom odors like this.
Common Causes of a Bad Smell
If there’s a smell, the first thing you should try is to give your toilet a deep clean. This will be a lot easier with a self-cleaning toilet. If that doesn’t work, then try the following.
A Dry P-Trap
The aptly named P-trap is that pipe that has a P-shape behind the toilet. It exists to make sure water only goes one way – out. However, stagnant water sitting there for long periods can evaporate and stink.
To fix this, run water frequently through the toilet. Leaving it unflushed for days or weeks will cause the smell.
A Clogged Pipe or Drain
If there’s a clog, then there’ll be water backup and debris that doesn’t get flushed. Most toilet clogs are in the P-trap. Try to remove it with:
- The heavy-flush setting
- Toilet unblocking solution
- A plunger
If that doesn’t work, call a plumber. Difficult clogs may require using the snake machine to get them out. Then consider getting an odorless toilet for your bathroom renovation.
Low or Leaking Tank Water
The tank may be causing the smell if there’s a leak, or the water is low. Check to make sure your tank is working correctly. Take a look at:
- The flapper and its seal
- The flush valve mechanism
- The flush valve chain
- The tank’s seal
In just about every case, you want someone who knows what they’re doing. Call a plumber or a relative who knows how to fix these tank issues.
Get an Odorless Toilet with EcoAir
Toilet odor is a deeply unpleasant and persistent smell in your bathroom, but you can stop it. Aside from cleaning, it may be the result of P-trap blockage, a leak, or a bad seal. Most can be fixed on your own, but you may have to call a plumber for a clog or serious leak.
EcoAir makes high-quality, odor-free smart toilets that clean themselves and are a joy to sit on. Get yourself a self-cleaning and/or odorless toilet and avoid that terrible odor in the future.
