There’s nothing more frustrating than a phantom bathroom smell that just won’t go away.
Even after a thorough scrub-down — including the toilet, tiles, grout, and all — the air still smells… off. Like sewage, or pee, or something you just can’t put your finger on. If you’ve cleaned every surface and the bathroom still reeks, it’s time to look beyond the usual suspects.
Here are the real reasons your bathroom still stinks like a sewer — and what to do about them.
Common causes of sewer smell in the bathroom
1. The wax gasket is broken
Underneath your toilet is a wax gasket (or wax ring), which is a circular ring made of wax. This creates a seal between the base of your toilet and the pipe below it, preventing leaks and odours. If the seal is cracked, damaged, or loose, it can allow sewer gas—a mixture of gases from decomposing waste in the sewer system—to seep into your bathroom. If the smell is coming from the base of the toilet, this could be the culprit. You’ll need a plumber to replace it.
2. There’s urine where it shouldn’t be
Have little boys in the house? You’re not imagining it—they do miss. Pee can build up on walls, the floor, the side of the vanity or bin, or even behind the toilet. Use an enzyme spray around the toilet and wipe down every surface within a two-foot radius.
3. The toilet brush is holding on to smells
If you have a plastic toilet brush holder, it might be harbouring hidden smells. They can trap moisture, which breeds bacteria and odour. If your brush smells, toss it.
4. The shower curtain needs a wash
Yes, even your plastic shower curtain liner can have an odour. Throw it in the washing machine on a hot cycle with a splash of bleach or peroxide. Hang it straight back up to dry.
5. There’s gunk in the toilet seat hinges
Toilet seat hinges are one of the biggest hiding spots for pee residue. Use hot bleach water or an enzyme cleaner and pour it directly over the hinges and into the bolt holes. Let it sit before wiping. Replacing the toilet seat completely can also help.
6. The P-trap has dried out
That U-shaped bend in the pipe (known as a P-trap) is designed to hold water and block sewer gases (the mix of gases from waste breakdown in your plumbing). If a sink or shower hasn’t been used in a while, the trap might dry out, allowing odour to escape. Run water down all drains weekly to keep the traps full.
7. There’s a cracked or blocked sewer pipe
In rare cases, sewer smells can be a sign of something more serious, like a cracked or clogged pipe, tree roots in the line, or a full septic tank. If you’ve tried everything else, it might be time to call a licensed plumber.
Can sewer gas make you sick?
Sewer gas is a mixture of gases, including methane and hydrogen sulfide, created by the decomposition of waste in plumbing systems. In small amounts, the smell is just unpleasant. But prolonged exposure to high concentrations can cause headaches, nausea, and irritation. If the smell is strong or persistent, call a professional.
Fortunately, many sewer smells have straightforward solutions. After addressing potential health concerns, start with a deep clean using enzyme products to tackle hidden urine. Don’t overlook items like toilet brushes and curtain liners. If the smell persists, check your wax ring or call in a plumber to inspect your pipes.
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