How to Fix Sewer Smells in Your Laundry Room: Eliminate unpleasant odors while using your washing machine

Sewer smells in your laundry room are not only unpleasant, but can also signal underlying plumbing issues that need prompt attention. Common culprits include dry traps, clogged or improperly vented pipes, or even a buildup of organic material in your washing machine. Here’s how you can systematically address and fix sewer smells in your laundry area.

1. Check Floor Drains and Traps: Most laundry rooms have a floor drain, which is designed to trap water and block sewer gases. If the drain isn’t used frequently, the water in the trap can evaporate, letting odors seep in. Simply pour a bucket of water down the drain to refill the trap; adding a few drops of mineral oil on top of the water can slow down evaporation.

2. Clear Out Laundry Standpipe: If your washer discharges into a standpipe, lint or debris buildup can trap organic material, fostering bacteria and odors. Clean the pipe with a plumber’s snake or a flexible brush.

3. Inspect the Washing Machine: Mold, mildew, or soap scum inside your washing machine can also be a source of foul odors. Regularly run an empty cycle with hot water and vinegar, or use a washing machine cleaner recommended by the manufacturer.

4. Examine the Vents: Proper venting ensures sewer gases are channeled out of your home. If vents are blocked—by debris or even birds’ nests—sewer gases may back up into your laundry room. Check external vent openings and clear any obstructions.

5. Verify Pipe Connections: Loose, cracked, or poorly sealed pipe connections may allow gas to escape. Inspect connections behind your washing machine and at the wall for signs of leakage or deterioration, and reseal or replace as needed.

As an interior designer, I know that lingering odors can significantly disrupt the comfort of a well-designed space. Design isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about how a space works and feels. Ensuring functional, odor-free plumbing goes hand-in-hand with creating an inviting laundry area. When I design laundry rooms for clients, I always consider ventilation, easy-to-clean finishes, and hidden access to essential plumbing. If you’re planning to remodel or refresh your space, working with advanced digital tools, such as a laundry room design planner, can help you map out the optimal layout and spot potential problem areas before they arise.

Tips 1:

Schedule regular maintenance for your laundry appliances and plumbing system—simple habits like running cleaning cycles and checking for leaks can prevent odors from returning.

FAQ

Q: What causes sewer smells in the laundry room?

A: Common causes are dry floor drain traps, clogged standpipes, plumbing vent issues, and buildup inside the washing machine or pipes.

Q: How can I prevent sewer smells from recurring in the future?

A: Regularly pour water down unused drains, keep appliances clean, and check that all vents and pipe connections are intact and clear of obstructions.

Q: Is sewer gas dangerous?

A: Prolonged exposure to sewer gas can be hazardous. If the smell is persistent and strong, contact a plumber promptly.

Q: Do I need a plumber to fix every sewer smell issue?

A: Minor issues like a dry trap or a dirty washer can often be fixed by homeowners. Persistent smells or signs of plumbing leaks should be handled by a professional.

Q: Can improving laundry room ventilation help reduce sewer smells?

A: Yes, properly ventilated laundry rooms help dissipate odors more rapidly and prevent moisture buildup, which discourages mold growth and bacterial odors.