A musty stench underneath your sink can be a big no-no not just because it’s a pain but because it could be a sign of something more serious such as mold, mildew, or leaks. Fortunately, you can cure this smell and prevent it from returning with a little research and a few easy steps. Here is a list of causes, solutions and prevention to keep your under-sink clean.
Find Out What’s Causing the Musty Odour.
First thing first, when it comes to dealing with this issue is to consider what the smell could be. Common culprits include:
1. Moisture Build-Up
Pipes leak, or there’s condensation under the sink. It is this watery environment that makes ideal conditions for mould and mildew, the two main causes of musty odours.
2. Mold and Mildew
Mold and mildew like dark, humid conditions. If there are white, black or green spots visible in addition to the odour, it is probably mold.
3. Food Residue
Stale food debris in the sink drain or disposal will decay and make you smell.
4. Clogged or Dirty P-Trap
P-trap: This is the U-shaped pipe under your sink. Sewer gas leaks out if it’s blocked with garbage or lacks water to seal, making it smell vile.
5. Stored Items
Cleaners, sponges or anything under the sink can get wet or smell bad if they’re old or wet.
| Step | Action | Tools Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Inspect for Leaks | Check pipes, joints, and sink base for water stains or drips. | Flashlight, wrench |
| Clean the Area | Remove items and wipe surfaces with a cleaning solution. | Vinegar, dish soap, towel |
| Remove Mold/Mildew | Scrub affected areas with a bleach solution or natural alternatives. | Gloves, mask, bleach, sponge |
| Clean the P-Trap | Remove, clean, and reassemble the P-trap. | Bucket, brush, soapy water |
| Deodorize the Drain | Use baking soda and vinegar to freshen up the drain. | Baking soda, vinegar, boiling water |
| Organize Stored Items | Discard damp items and use airtight containers. | Storage containers |
| Use Odor Absorbers | Place baking soda or silica gel under the sink. | Baking soda, silica gel packets |
How to Get Rid of the Musty Ear Smell.
Once you have figured out what the reason might be, do these to deodorize:
1. Inspect for Leaks
Inspect every single one of the pipes, joints, and the bottom of the sink for leaks. Check for water stains, rust or drips. : If there is a leak, resolve it immediately by connecting the pieces or swapping them out.
2. Clean the Area Thoroughly
Take everything in the sink out and wash up. Use the following method:
: Prepare a solution of warm water, white vinegar and a couple of drops of dish soap.
Sponge clean all surfaces – the cabinet bottom and the pipes.
Wipe the area dry with a towel.
3. Address Mold and Mildew
If you do find mold or mildew, you will need to clean it like this:
Gnause and Mask to keep safe.
Pour 1 part bleach into 10 parts water.
Scrub the solution onto the areas affected with a sponge or spray bottle.
Scrub with a soft cloth and wash off.
Give the place some time to air dry.
Or you can also try commercial mold cleaner or organic products such as baking soda and vinegar.
4. Clean the P-Trap
P-trap is known to get dirty. Here’s how to clean it:
Submerge a bucket under the P-trap to collect any water or debris.
Unplug the wiring and uninstall the P-trap.
Wipe it well with a brush and some soap.
Take the P-trap apart and reinstall with all connections good.
5. Deodorize the Drain
For the sink drain to clear of odours:
Spout 1/2 cup of baking soda down the drain.
Then add one cup of white vinegar.
Let the mix bubble away for 10-15 minutes.
Dump the drain with hot water.
6. Organize and Dry Stored Items
Go through the junk at the sink. Discard anything damp or damaged. Storage: Store in airtight containers and don’t overflow it.
7. Use Deodorizers or Absorbers
Place a little bowl of baking soda, activated charcoal or silica gel packets under the sink to soak up smells and moisture.
Preventing Future Musty Smells
After you have wiped off the smell, do these preventive measures to maintain the freshness of your undersink space:
1. Regular Inspections
Check underneath the sink every month for a leak, condensation or mold growth. Catch it early and you’ll save the day.
2. Maintain Good Ventilation
Open the cabinet doors for ventilation from time to time. When the water is frequently coming up, you can put in a little vent fan.
3. Keep the Area Dry
Blot spills immediately and don’t keep wet products under the sink. Optimise by using a watertight mat or liner.
4. Clean the Drain Regularly
Prevent clogs in your drain and P-trap by flushing them every month with a baking soda and vinegar solution.
5. Use Moisture Absorbers
Aim to use moisture-absorbing products under the sink to prevent moisture. Replace them as needed.
6. Avoid Overloading the Space
Clutter-free space under your sink: organize your space. This also allows you to identify issues earlier and gets more airflow.
Never thought about checking the stored items under my sink, but now that you mention it, I bet those old sponges are part of the problem. This article opened my eyes!
Old or damp items under the sink can often be overlooked but contribute to odors. Swapping them out for airtight storage is a game-changer.
The baking soda and vinegar trick for the drain is my favorite. It’s cheap, natural, and it always does the job! This guide breaks it down so well—thanks
Baking soda and vinegar are indeed powerful allies for a fresh-smelling sink. Keep up the great work
Didn’t realize that ventilation could help prevent musty smells. Might try adding a little vent fan under my sink. Thanks for the tip
Ventilation can make a big difference in keeping the area dry and fresh. A vent fan is an excellent idea—let us know how it works for you!