It can be unpleasant when your laundry room develops a sewage-like odor. However, there are usually identifiable reasons for the smell as well as solutions. Getting to the root cause is the first step.
Checking Drain Pipes
Over time, drain pipes can collect debris, allowing odors to back up. Running a drain snake or using a plunger to loosen and flush away buildup can help. Checking for cracks or breaks in pipes that allow sewer gas to enter is also advised.
Examining the Washing Machine
If improperly maintained, washing machines can develop mold, mildew and residue inside that causes foul smells. Running empty cleansing cycles and examining hoses and pipes for cracking or blockages is worthwhile.
Assessing the Laundry Room Itself
The room may have high humidity or poor ventilation that allows odors to linger. Checking for standing water from leaks, improving airflow, and using dehumidifiers can make a difference.
Considering Outside Factors
Sometimes, winds or venting issues can carry smells in from external sewer sources. Working with local utilities or specialists to identify and mitigate outside odor transmission may help.
Tips for Eliminating Lingering Sewage Smells
Once the source is found, taking further action to purify the air and surfaces in the laundry room is key.
Cleaning Surfaces and Materials
Wash walls, floors, storage bins and clothing with disinfecting cleaners containing chlorine to kill bacteria and odors. Repeat cleaning weekly at first.
Using Air Purifiers
Portable air purifiers with HEPA filters, or installing whole-house ventilation systems, can remove airborne particles. Activated charcoal filters help absorb lingering odors over time.
Trying DIY Deodorizers
Leaving bowls of white vinegar or baking soda in the room can help absorb humid smells. Citrus peels, essential oils or blooming flowers can add fresh scents to counteract unpleasant ones.
Calling Professional Services
For severe cases from sewage backups or pipe leaks, water restoration and odor remediation services use truck-mounted cleaning units to sanitize and deodorize spaces.
By methodically troubleshooting issues and using thorough cleaning methods, laundry room odors can be successfully banished. With some diligence to identify and address the root causes, your space can smell fresh again.
References
[1] How to Get Rid of Laundry Room Odors – This Old House [2] 6 Tips to Get Rid of Laundry Room Odor – The Spruce [3] Help! How Can I Get the Sewage Smell Out of My Washing Machine? – CNet Home
Laura has had an enthusiasm for laundry ever since she was a teenager experimenting with wash cycles. She went on study textile science in college before working in product testing.
Soon, Laura found friends and family constantly asking her laundry advice, realizing she had become an unofficial laundry guru. The questions kept coming in, so Laura decided to start sharing laundry tips online to help more people. The enthusiastic response led her start the blog “Laundry How”.
Now in her late thirties, Laura uses Laundry How to tackle all kinds of laundry topics – stains, fabric care, detergents, and more. She provides advice from both her studies and experience testing techniques out firsthand. Laura continues to grow an engaged community of laundry learners, feeling fulfilled empowering people to make laundry an easy, confidence-building ritual rather than a dreaded chore.