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Best Drain Cleaner For Smelly Drains (2024 Update)

A smelly drain is never a pleasant surprise. As offensive odors waft up from the sink or tub, you know it’s time to take action. But with so many drain cleaners on the market, how do you choose the right one to banish the stank for good?

Before buying a drain cleaner, consider which type best fits your needs. Look for an enzymatic cleaner, which uses natural bacteria to digest buildup. Opt for a foaming cleaner to cling to pipes. Seek a cleaner with a pleasant scent to mask odors as it works. Check active ingredients that dissolve different clogs, like hair, soap scum, and grease. Compare corrosive and non-corrosive formulas based on your plumbing.

Still unsure what drain cleaner is best to destinkify? Ask yourself these questions: What’s the source of the smell – mold, mildew, rotting food? How often do your drains clog up? Do you have metal or plastic pipes? Is a natural cleaner important to you? Making a list of must-have features helps narrow the options.

A little planning goes a long way when choosing the best drain cleaner for a smelly situation. Arm yourself with knowledge before buying so you can pick the right product for sparkling, stench-free drains. Breathe deep and enjoy that fresh scent – you’ve got this!

10 Best Drain Cleaner For Smelly Drains

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
The product is ideal for clearing clogs in drains.
2
The product is ideal for cleaning and maintaining drains by removing clogs, preventing buildup, and eliminating odors.
3
The product is ideal for cleaning drain lines, sink and floor pipes, sewers, urinals, and toilets in both residential and commercial settings.
4
This product is ideal for commercial kitchen grease trap treatment and maintenance, including drain opening, cleaning, and odor control.
5
Ideal for clearing tough clogs and blockages in drains and pipes.
6
This product is ideal for cleaning and unclogging drains, urinals, grease traps, and other areas with waste buildup.
7
The product is ideal for cleaning and unclogging septic systems, leach fields, and drains.
8
It is ideal for unclogging and cleaning main sewer lines and drains in residential properties.
9
The product is ideal for removing drain clogs and build-up in sinks, toilets, and other plumbing fixtures.
10
This product is ideal for effectively removing clogs and blockages in drainages using enzyme-powered formula.
The product is ideal for clearing clogs in drains.
The product is ideal for cleaning and maintaining drains by removing clogs, preventing buildup, and eliminating odors.
The product is ideal for cleaning drain lines, sink and floor pipes, sewers, urinals, and toilets in both residential and commercial settings.
This product is ideal for commercial kitchen grease trap treatment and maintenance, including drain opening, cleaning, and odor control.
Ideal for clearing tough clogs and blockages in drains and pipes.
This product is ideal for cleaning and unclogging drains, urinals, grease traps, and other areas with waste buildup.
The product is ideal for cleaning and unclogging septic systems, leach fields, and drains.
It is ideal for unclogging and cleaning main sewer lines and drains in residential properties.
The product is ideal for removing drain clogs and build-up in sinks, toilets, and other plumbing fixtures.
This product is ideal for effectively removing clogs and blockages in drainages using enzyme-powered formula.

1. Thrift Marketing Gidds-Ty-0400879 Drain Cleaner 2 Lb , White

The product at hand is a remarkable solution for anyone looking to keep their drains and sewer lines clear. It is a highly durable product that adds great value to any home. The product is proudly manufactured in the United States, ensuring that it meets the highest quality standards.

This powerful solution, known as THRIFT, is designed to work on a variety of surfaces including drains, sewer lines, grease traps, and septic systems. Whether you need to unclog a drain or clear out a sewer line, this product is up for the task. In fact, THRIFT can clean out a drain line in less than 60 seconds, making it an incredibly efficient solution.

One of the best things about THRIFT is that it is completely safe to use on most kitchen or lavatory surfaces. This means that you can use it with confidence, knowing that it won't damage your pipes or harm your surfaces. It is a reliable solution that you can count on to keep your home's plumbing in top condition.

In terms of parameters and specifications, THRIFT is a powerful drain cleaner that is specially formulated to dissolve and liquify grease, hair, paper, soap, and other organic materials. It is a non-acidic and non-caustic solution that is safe for all plumbing. The product is also EPA registered and NSF approved, ensuring that it meets the strictest safety standards.

2. Citrus Fresh Drain Clog Remover – 16 Oz.

Introducing a powerful and safe solution to clear slow drains and prevent clogs – the Enzyme-Based Drain Freshener and Clog Preventer. This innovative formula uses natural enzymes to work overnight, effectively eliminating bad smells and replacing them with a refreshing citrus fragrance.

Not only does this drain freshener work wonders in clearing clogs, but it also helps maintain your drains' health with regular use. By preventing the build-up that causes clogs, you can keep your drains running smoothly and efficiently.

This product is designed with your safety in mind and is both plumbing and septic safe. And, as an environmentally friendly solution, you can feel good about using it in your home.

In addition to its powerful cleaning capabilities, this drain freshener is also sustainable, making it an excellent choice for those who care about the planet.

With its clean, citrus scent, this drain freshener not only helps maintain your drains but also freshens up your entire bathroom or kitchen. And, with regular use, you can prevent slow-running drains and keep your plumbing system in top shape.

Invest in the Enzyme-Based Drain Freshener and Clog Preventer, and you won't be disappointed. It's guaranteed to work, giving you peace of mind and a clean, fresh-smelling home.

3. Eco Drain Cleaner For Home & Business.

This multi-purpose drain cleaner is designed to work effectively on a wide range of surfaces, including bathroom sinks, bath tubs, showers, toilets, kitchen sinks, floor drains, slop sinks, urinals, RV drains, and more. It is equipped to tackle various types of clogs, such as grease, hair, toilet paper, soap scum, organic materials, body oils, calcium and lime buildup, rust, flushable baby wipes, toothpaste, shampoo residue, iron buildup, and more.

Unlike traditional liquid drain cleaners that are often toxic and dangerous, this drain cleaner provides a safer alternative for pipes. It is formulated with powerful yet safe ingredients that are gentle on pipes, making it a reliable and effective solution to all your clogging problems.

The manufacturer is confident in the effectiveness of this product and guarantees customer satisfaction. They value their customers and stand behind ALL of their products 100 percent with no questions asked. If for any reason you are not pleased with the product, simply call or email them with your order number and they will reimburse you in full.

4. Serious Grease Trap Maintenance & Odor Control

Introducing the Professional Strength Grease Trap Cleaner and Commercial Drain Opener – a highly effective solution for maintaining the cleanliness and efficiency of your grease traps and drains. With the Get Serious Grease Trap Treatment, you can save money on costly repairs and keep your drains flowing smoothly.

This commercial drain cleaner is specially formulated to tackle slow draining sinks and lines, as well as clean the pipes before and after the grease trap. It contains powerful enzymes that break down grease and other organic materials, preventing blockages and eliminating offensive odors.

Not only is it effective, but it's also safe on pipes and plumbing. Say goodbye to harsh chemicals that can damage your plumbing system and hello to a more eco-friendly and efficient solution.

With this grease trap cleaner and drain opener, you can rest assured that your commercial kitchen is running smoothly and efficiently. Don't let clogged drains and foul odors slow down your business – try the Professional Strength Grease Trap Cleaner and Commercial Drain Opener today.

5. Drano Max Gel

Drano Max Gel Clog Remover is a powerful and effective solution to unclog any drain in your household. As the #1 Selling Gel Drain Cleaner*, it provides a quick and easy solution to any clogging issue. With its fast-acting formula, it gets to work in as quick as 7 minutes, saving you time and hassle.

This gel clog remover is specially designed to pour through standing water straight to the clog, making it easy to use and effective. It is safe for use in various drains, including garbage disposals, bathroom, kitchen, and laundry sinks. You can even leave it in your drains overnight for an even more thorough cleaning.

Drano Max Gel Clog Remover has an ingredient that protects your pipes from corrosion, ensuring that your plumbing remains in good condition. This is an added benefit that you can enjoy with this powerful clog remover.

With its informative and straightforward description, it is clear that Drano Max Gel Clog Remover is a reliable and efficient solution to any clogging issue in your household. It is a must-have for any homeowner looking for a quick and easy way to unclog their drains.

6. Enzyme Magic: The Ultimate Grease Destroyer!

The Enzyme Magic Grease & Waste Digester is a powerful and natural solution for breaking down various types of organic matter. Its unique formula is designed to improve grease trap performance by effectively breaking down waste, grease, fats, oils, sugars, and other organic matter. This product is suitable for use in various clogged and problem drains, including floor drains, beverage tower drains, urinals, and commodes.

Unlike other drain cleaning products, this grease and waste digester is safe for use and will not generate heat or corrode plumbing. The enzymes used in the formula work to deodorize by attacking the organic source of odors, leaving a fresh and clean scent. The product is also pH neutral, making it safe for storage, and non-corrosive, ensuring it won't damage piping or plumbing fixtures.

Enzyme Magic Grease & Waste Digester contains no phosphates, making it an environmentally friendly option. The product is biodegradable, and its eco-friendly composition ensures that it won't harm the environment. It comes in convenient 4 oz. pouches, preventing wastage and making it easy to use.

Whether you're dealing with a clogged drain or want to improve grease trap performance, Enzyme Magic Grease & Waste Digester is a reliable and effective solution for your needs. Its natural composition is guaranteed to work without harming the environment or your plumbing, making it a safe and eco-friendly option for use in any household or commercial setting.

7. Roebic K-570-Q 32-Ounce Leach And Drain Field Opener Concentrate

The Roebic K-570 Leach and Drain Field Opener is a highly effective solution for treating clogs and buildup in drain fields, which are the primary cause of septic system failure. With this product, users can quickly restore proper drainage and prevent costly repairs.

This product is environmentally friendly and biodegradable, making it safe for use in all types of environments. Its all-natural formulation contains aerobic spore-bearing bacteria that are resistant to soaps and detergents, ensuring that it is gentle on the environment while still being highly effective.

The Roetech enzyme-producing bacteria in this product are patented and extremely powerful, degrading protein, starches, and other food-related organic debris to increase flow. These bacteria are the same specialized strains used in professional formulations and municipal wastewater treatment facilities throughout the country, so users can trust in their effectiveness.

This professional-strength product is also highly economical, with a concentrated, easy-to-use formula that can treat a large 1500-gallon septic tank for up to one year. This makes it a cost-effective solution for maintaining a healthy septic system and preventing costly repairs down the line.

8. Green Gobbler Ultimate Main

The High-Density Main Line Drain Opener by Green Gobbler is the ultimate solution for clearing stubborn drain obstructions. Its thick and high-density formula is designed to sink through water and cling to pipes, effectively liquifying tough clogs in the main line to and from your home.

This powerful drain opener easily dissolves organic materials and paper products, such as grease, hair, oils, soap scum, and baby wipes. Its revolutionary formula is perfect for both addressing clogs and performing preventive maintenance.

Despite its industrial-strength, the Ultimate Main Line Opener is gentle on pipes and septic systems, making it non-damaging. Unlike chemical-based cleaners, this product is environmentally friendly and safer to use. It is odorless and non-flammable, ensuring that it is safe for use in any household.

Green Gobbler is confident in their product, which is why they offer a 30-Day Money Back Guarantee. If for any reason you are unsatisfied with your purchase, simply contact them for a refund of the purchase price.

9. Green Gobbler

The Green Gobbler Drain Opening Pacs are a great solution for anyone dealing with clogged drains. These drain opening pacs are safe for pipes and septic systems and come with three premeasured applications and a clog remover tool to make fighting clogs easier than ever.

The Green Gobbler Drain Opening Pacs are highly effective against various types of clogs. They are perfect for use in bathroom sinks, bathtubs, showers, toilets, kitchen sinks, floor drains, slop sinks, septic tanks, urinals and more. They are also effective against hair, toilet paper, soap scum, organic materials, and flushable hygiene products.

One of the best features of the Green Gobbler Drain Opening Pacs is that they are incredibly easy to use. You don't need to measure or guess how much product to use. Simply open one Pac and pour the entire contents into the drain. Let it sit for 15-30 minutes before flushing with hot water. That's it.

Another great benefit of the Green Gobbler Drain Opening Pacs is that there is no splashing or mess involved. The user can easily and safely break up the toughest clogs without worrying about any additional mess.

Lastly, the Green Gobbler Drain Opening Pacs come with a money-back guarantee. The manufacturer stands by their product and if the user is unhappy with their results, they can simply contact the customer service team for a full refund.

10. Instant Power Enzyme Drain Cleaner, Drainage Clog Remover, 1-Gallon

The Instant Power Enzyme Drain Cleaner is a highly effective and environmentally friendly solution to your clogged drain problems. This drain cleaner is specially formulated to clean and deodorize your kitchen and restroom drains, eliminating bad odors caused by blockages.

Using powerful enzymes, this clog remover effectively breaks down and washes away grease, food particles, and other materials that can get stuck in your drain over time. It is a safe and efficient alternative to harmful acids and caustic ingredients, making it gentle on your pipes and drainage system.

In addition to being an effective clog remover, the Instant Power Enzyme Drain Cleaner also reduces the need for frequent grease trap pumping, saving you time and money. By preventing drain blockages that can disrupt your business operations, this drain cleaner helps reduce costs associated with emergency repairs and maintenance.

This eco-friendly formula is designed to digest fats, oils, and greases along with other organic waste that accumulate in drains and grease traps. It is a reliable solution for maintaining the cleanliness and functionality of your drain system while being conscious of the environment.

Best Drain Cleaner For Smelly Drains FAQs

Are commercial drain cleaners safe to use for smelly drains?

Commercial drain cleaners can be effective in clearing smelly drains, but they may not necessarily be safe to use. Most commercial drain cleaners contain harsh chemicals such as sodium hydroxide, sulfuric acid, and hydrochloric acid, which can cause skin and eye irritation, and even chemical burns if not handled properly. Moreover, these chemicals can also damage the pipes and plumbing system, leading to costly repairs.

In addition, commercial drain cleaners are not environmentally friendly. They can release harmful chemicals into the environment, causing pollution and other negative impacts.

A better and safer alternative to commercial drain cleaners is to use natural solutions such as baking soda, vinegar, or lemon juice. These items are readily available, affordable, and safe to use. They can effectively remove unpleasant odors and unclog drains without causing any harm to the plumbing system or the environment.

In conclusion, while commercial drain cleaners can be effective in clearing smelly drains, they are not necessarily safe to use. It is recommended to use natural solutions instead to avoid any potential health or environmental hazards.

Can baking soda and vinegar be used as a drain cleaner for smelly drains?

Yes, baking soda and vinegar can be used as a drain cleaner for smelly drains. This is a natural and effective method to get rid of unpleasant odors coming from your drains. To use this method, you need to pour a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by a cup of vinegar. The mixture will start to fizz and bubble, which is a sign that it is working. Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes, then flush the drain with hot water. This will clear out any debris and eliminate the odor-causing bacteria. However, it is important to note that this method may not be effective for deeply clogged drains or severe odors. In such cases, you may need to seek professional help or use a stronger drain cleaner. Additionally, it is recommended to use this method regularly to prevent the buildup of odor-causing bacteria in your drains.

Can smelly drains be a sign of a more serious plumbing issue?

Yes, smelly drains can definitely be a sign of a more serious plumbing issue. Foul odors emanating from your drains could indicate a buildup of debris and bacteria in the pipes, which can lead to clogs and even sewage backups if left untreated. In some cases, the smell may be caused by a damaged or broken sewer line, which can be a costly and time-consuming repair. It's important to address the issue as soon as possible to prevent further damage to your plumbing system and potential health hazards from exposure to harmful bacteria. Regular maintenance and cleaning of your drains can help prevent these issues from occurring in the first place. However, if you notice persistent smells or other signs of plumbing problems, it's best to contact a licensed plumber to assess the situation and provide appropriate solutions.

How do I choose the right drain cleaner for my smelly drains?

If you are dealing with smelly drains, then choosing the right drain cleaner is crucial. The first step is to identify the cause of the smell. If it is caused by food or organic matter buildup, then an enzymatic drain cleaner can be effective. Enzymatic cleaners contain natural bacteria that break down the organic matter and eliminate the odor.

If the smell is caused by a clog, then a chemical drain cleaner may be necessary. However, be cautious when using chemical drain cleaners as they can be harmful to your pipes and the environment. Look for a drain cleaner that is labeled as safe for your type of pipes and follow the instructions carefully.

Alternatively, you can try natural remedies such as pouring hot water, baking soda, and vinegar down the drain. This can help break down the buildup and eliminate the odor.

In summary, choosing the right drain cleaner depends on the cause of the smell. Enzymatic cleaners are effective for organic matter buildup while chemical cleaners can be used for clogs. Natural remedies can also be effective and are safer for your pipes and the environment.

How long does it take for a drain cleaner to eliminate smelly odors?

The time it takes for a drain cleaner to eliminate smelly odors depends on various factors, such as the severity of the odor and the type of drain cleaner being used. Generally, drain cleaners can effectively eliminate smelly odors within a few hours to a day.

However, it is essential to note that using drain cleaners can be harmful to the environment and your plumbing system if not used correctly. It is recommendable to use natural remedies such as baking soda and vinegar to eliminate smelly odors in your drains.

If you find that the smelly odor persists even after using a drain cleaner, it may indicate a more significant problem with your plumbing system. In such cases, it is best to seek the assistance of a professional plumber who can diagnose and fix the issue.

How often should drains be cleaned to prevent smelly odors?

Drains play a vital role in ensuring that wastewater is disposed of in a safe and efficient manner. However, over time, drains can accumulate dirt, debris, and other materials that can lead to unpleasant odors. To prevent smelly odors from drains, it is essential to establish a regular cleaning schedule.

The frequency of drain cleaning depends on various factors, including usage, the number of people in the household, and the type of plumbing system. For instance, if you have a large family and use your kitchen sink frequently, you may need to clean your drain once a month. On the other hand, if you live alone and rarely use your kitchen sink, cleaning your drain twice a year may suffice.

It is crucial to note that regular cleaning not only prevents smelly odors but also helps to prolong the lifespan of your plumbing system. In addition, you can use natural remedies such as baking soda and vinegar to clean your drains. If you encounter persistent odors, it may be best to seek the services of a professional plumber.

What are some DIY remedies for smelly drains?

Smelly drains can be an unpleasant experience. Fortunately, there are several DIY remedies that you can try to eliminate the odor:

1. Baking soda and vinegar: Pour a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by a cup of white vinegar. Allow the mixture to sit for 10-15 minutes, then flush the drain with hot water.

2. Boiling water: Pour a kettle of boiling water down the drain to help dissolve and flush away any buildup causing the odor.

3. Salt and baking soda: Mix a cup of salt and a cup of baking soda, then pour the mixture down the drain. Allow it to sit for several hours or overnight before flushing with hot water.

4. Lemon juice and baking soda: Squeeze half a lemon down the drain, then pour a cup of baking soda down after it. Let the mixture sit for 30 minutes before flushing with hot water.

5. Bleach: If other methods don't work, you can try pouring a small amount of bleach down the drain and letting it sit for 15-20 minutes before flushing with hot water.

It's important to note that these remedies may not work for severe or ongoing drain odor issues, and you may need to seek professional assistance.

What are some natural alternatives to chemical drain cleaners for smelly drains?

Chemical drain cleaners can be harmful to both the environment and your health. Fortunately, there are many natural alternatives that can effectively clear smelly drains without the use of harsh chemicals.

One effective natural alternative is baking soda and vinegar. Start by pouring a pot of boiling water down the drain to loosen any debris. Then, pour 1/2 cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by 1/2 cup of vinegar. Cover the drain with a plug or cloth and let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes. Finally, pour another pot of boiling water down the drain to flush out the mixture and any remaining debris.

Another natural alternative is using a combination of salt, baking soda, and lemon juice. Mix 1/2 cup of salt and 1/2 cup of baking soda, then pour it down the drain. Follow this up with 1/2 cup of lemon juice and let it sit for 30 minutes. Finish by pouring boiling water down the drain to flush out the mixture.

Finally, you can use a combination of borax and boiling water. Pour 1/4 cup of borax down the drain, followed by a pot of boiling water. Let it sit for 15 minutes, then flush with another pot of boiling water.

These natural alternatives are effective and safe for both your home and the environment.

What are the main causes of smelly drains and how can they be prevented?

Smelly drains are a common household problem that can be caused by a variety of factors. One of the primary causes is the buildup of organic matter such as hair, food, and soap scum. This buildup can lead to bacterial growth, resulting in unpleasant odors. Another common cause is a dry P-trap, which is the U-shaped pipe beneath the sink that traps water to prevent sewer gases from entering the home. If the trap dries out, it can allow odors to escape.

To prevent smelly drains, regular cleaning and maintenance are essential. This includes removing any visible buildup of organic matter from the drain, as well as using a drain cleaner to dissolve any stubborn clogs. Additionally, running hot water or a mixture of baking soda and vinegar down the drain can help to break down any buildup and eliminate odors. To prevent dry P-traps, it is recommended to run water down infrequently used drains or install a trap primer that automatically adds water to the trap. Finally, avoiding pouring grease or oil down the drain can also help prevent unpleasant odors.

What is the best drain cleaner for smelly drains?

When it comes to smelly drains, it is important to use a drain cleaner that not only unclogs the drain but also eliminates the odor. There are a variety of drain cleaners available in the market, but the best one for smelly drains is one that contains active ingredients that attack bacteria and other organisms that cause the odor.

One effective drain cleaner for smelly drains is Bio-Clean Drain Septic Bacteria. It is an all-natural drain cleaner that contains bacteria and enzymes that break down organic matter, including the gunk that causes odors in drains. This drain cleaner is safe to use and does not contain any harmful chemicals.

Another option is the Green Gobbler Drain Clog Dissolver. This powerful drain cleaner is formulated to dissolve hair, grease, and other clogs that cause odors in drains. It is also safe to use and does not contain harmful chemicals.

In addition to using a good drain cleaner, it is important to maintain a regular cleaning schedule to prevent smelly drains from recurring. This includes flushing your drains regularly and avoiding pouring grease or other substances down your drains.

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