You need to always keep your kitchen clean and hygienic because this is where you prepare your food and stock the things that you need to do so. However, there are instances wherein no matter how clean you try to maintain it, you will still smell a foul odor that you can’t figure out where it is coming from. In this case, below are some of the reasons why your kitchen might have a bad smell.
- Garbage
One of the primary reasons why you may be smelling a foul odor in your kitchen is because of your garbage can. In this case, try taking the trash out and observe whether you will still be able to smell the nasty odor. In case you have already done so, check whether the garbage bag had a leak that allowed any food or liquid to seep through the bottom of your garbage can. If there is, then you need to clean your garbage can before you can put a bag in it and use it again.
- Disposal
In case you have isolated that your garbage can is not causing the strong smell, then the next thing that you should check is your disposal. More often than not, a funky smell is also caused by leaks at your disposal. Thereby, for garbage disposal leaking from the bottom, evaluate whether it is the internal seal that is worn because if this is the case, then you may need to have it replaced. On the other hand, you need to call a plumber when it is the sink flange seal that is damaged. Contacting a professional, like those at Morris Jenkins, is the best way to solve any issues with your garbage disposal, so you know you are fully taking care of the issue.
- Rotten Food
When you have exhausted all your efforts to check both your garbage can and disposal but still you are smelling the nasty odor, then it is time to check your fridge or your cupboards and pantry for any signs of food that is already rotting. It can be that there is already a rotting potato that can give off a faint but nauseating smell. It can also be leftover food that has been in your fridge for months without anyone in your household noticing it.
- Dishwasher
There are instances wherein bits and pieces of food can get stuck in your dishwasher. This often happens when you fail to rinse off your dishes before loading them in the machine. Once you think that this may be causing the funny smell in your kitchen, then make sure to clean the filter underneath the racks of your dishwasher and get any loose foods out. After this, perform a quick rinse cycle with the machine empty because this will wash out any food bits that are left after you clean the filter.
- Unused/Greasy Drain
When you leave for a business trip or a vacation, then the drain pipes in your kitchen may be left unused for a while. In this case, they can cause a certain pungent smell because the water from the trap in the drain line evaporates, allowing the sewage smell to infiltrate your home. On the other hand, if you have the habit of dumping grease and oil into your drain, then this can also cause your sink and your kitchen to stink.
- Clogged Plumbing Vent
Clogged plumbing vents can also cause your kitchen to smell terrible because it fails to allow fresh air inside your drain. In this case, sewer gas can make its way into your kitchen and all over your home. If you can easily detect the blockage, make sure to clean it promptly to eliminate the bad odor.
- Water or Mustiness
In case you smell something that seems to be wet or musty, then you may suspect that there is a leak somewhere in your kitchen. In this case, check all your pipes, whether it is underneath your sink or anywhere else to see if there are any dripping pools. You can also check for any discolored spots on your wall which is a good indication that there is a leak somewhere.
To wrap things up, your garbage can or your garbage disposal may be the culprit when it comes to a foul odor in your kitchen. Nevertheless, the bad smell can also be because of rotten food that is left in your fridge, or worse, outside. The smell may also come from your dishwasher or your drains and pipes, as well as other areas that may cause water to leak. In case you smell anything bad in your kitchen, make sure to check all those mentioned above for you to determine the cause and address it properly.
