A persistent unpleasant odor in the toilet that does not disappear after cleaning can be eliminated in a matter of seconds without special means. Professional plumbers reported this, revealing the algorithm of actions worked out in emergency services.
Experts explain that in 90% of cases the reason for the sudden appearance of an odor is not due to unsanitary conditions, but to a malfunction of the water seal (siphon).
A water seal is a layer of water in a pipe bend that creates a plug that blocks the penetration of gases from the sewer into the room. If this water becomes scarce, the smell easily passes into the apartment.
The evaporation of the water seal is caused by infrequent use of plumbing, increased room temperature, ventilation problems, or an incipient blockage.
For an instant solution, they recommend a two-step procedure that takes less than 1 minute.
1. Hot water.
It is necessary to pour 1–1.5 liters of the hottest tap water into the toilet, but not boiling water. This will instantly fill the missing volume in the water seal.
2. Chemical reaction
If there is a strong odor, it is recommended to add 2-3 tbsp after hot water to neutralize it. l. baking soda and add 100–150 ml of table vinegar.
The reaction that occurs helps clean the walls of the drain channel.
Plumbers advise carrying out regular preventive maintenance. You should pour a sufficient amount of water into all rarely used drains (bathtubs, sinks, shower trays) once a week to maintain the water level in the water seals. This prevents the problem from occurring again.
