Drain Smell Diagnostics

Is a Smelly Drain Ruining Your Outdoor Space?

Nobody likes a bad smell lingering around their home or business. Smelly drains outside your property can be more than just unpleasant—they can make outdoor areas unusable and even impact curb appeal. But don’t worry! At Cotswold Drainage, we’ve got three tried-and-tested solutions to help you get rid of drain odours for good. Whether you’re dealing with a one-off stink or a persistent problem, these steps will freshen up your drains in no time.

A little maintenance goes a long way in preventing bad smells from outdoor drains. Here’s how you can stay on top of it:

Clear Out Debris Regularly

Leaves, dirt, food scraps, and other debris can easily accumulate in drains, creating an environment where bacteria and mold thrive. Over time, these can lead to persistent foul odours. To prevent this, check your outdoor drains regularly and remove any visible debris using gloves or a small shovel. Additionally, installing a drain cover or mesh screen can help reduce buildup by preventing leaves and larger particles from entering in the first place.

Flush With Hot Water

One of the simplest yet most effective ways to prevent drain odours is by flushing them with hot water. This helps dissolve built-up grease, soap scum, and organic material that could otherwise lead to blockages and bad smells. Make it a habit to pour a kettle of hot (not boiling) water down your outdoor drains once a week to keep things flowing smoothly.

Use a Natural Drain Cleaner

Instead of relying on harsh chemical cleaners, try a natural alternative that’s just as effective. A combination of baking soda and white vinegar creates a fizzy reaction that breaks down grime and neutralizes odours. Pour equal parts baking soda and vinegar into the drain, let it sit for 10–15 minutes, then flush with hot water. This method is eco-friendly and safe for both your pipes and the environment.

Book a Routine Inspection

Regular DIY maintenance is great, but for long-term drain health, professional inspections are key. Our team at Cotswold Drainage can conduct routine checkups to identify any hidden issues before they become major problems. Scheduling an inspection once or twice a year can help keep your drains in peak condition and prevent unpleasant surprises.

For persistent odours, enzymatic drain cleaners offer a powerful yet environmentally friendly solution. Unlike harsh chemical-based cleaners, enzymatic cleaners use natural bacteria and enzymes to break down organic waste, grease, and grime—eliminating the source of the smell rather than just masking it.

Effectively Using Enzymatic Cleaners

1. Clear any debris from the drain first to ensure the cleaner reaches the buildup.
2. Pour the recommended amount of enzymatic cleaner directly into the drain, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
3. Allow it to sit overnight or for the duration specified on the product label to give the enzymes enough time to break down stubborn organic matter.
4. Use only on dry days to ensure that the cleaner isn't diluted by rainwater before it has a chance to work.
5. Repeat as needed—enzymatic cleaners work best with regular use, so consider incorporating them into your monthly maintenance routine.

These cleaners are safe for outdoor drains, septic systems, and the environment.

If you’ve tried everything and your outdoor drains still smell bad, the issue could be deeper within your drainage system. Problems like blockages, cracks, or damaged pipes can trap waste and cause ongoing odours that DIY solutions won’t resolve.

How a Professional Inspection Can Help

At Cotswold Drainage, we use advanced CCTV drain inspections to identify the exact cause of persistent odours. By inserting a small camera into your drainage system, we can detect issues such as:

• Stubborn clogs that aren’t fully cleared by DIY methods
• Leaks or cracks allowing waste to accumulate and emit bad smells
• Structural damage that requires professional repair

What Happens Next?

Once we’ve identified the root cause of the problem, our team will recommend the best course of action. This could include:

• Clearing stubborn blockages using high-pressure jetting or mechanical removal
• Repairing or replacing damaged pipes to restore proper drainage function
• Drain smell diagnostics to find the true source of the smell if it persists

Why Call in the Experts?

• Identify hidden issues that DIY solutions can’t fix.
• Prevent costly damage by addressing small problems before they escalate.
• Eliminate odours permanently rather than just temporarily covering up the smell.

Professional drain inspections and repairs not only resolve smelly drains but also prevent future issues, saving you time, money, and frustration.

Freshen Up Your Drains Today!

Nobody wants to deal with smelly drains outside their home or business. With these three simple solutions—regular maintenance, enzymatic cleaners, and professional inspections—you can say goodbye to bad odours for good.

Need expert help? Cotswold Drainage is here for you! Contact us today for professional drain cleaning, inspections, and repairs to keep your outdoor space fresh and pleasant all year round.

Drains in homes often get overlooked and we understand it is not the first thing you think about, however, upkeep and cleaning of drains are important to your health and home. Having an unruly smell that travels throughout your home is not pleasant for anyone and of course drains are located across the whole house, not just in the kitchen. The bathroom sinks, bathtubs, or showers all can suffer from an unpleasant drain smell. 

What causes a smelly drain?  

The simple answer and the most frequent problem are solid items make their way down the drains and cause a blockage, which over time causes the smell to build and make its way through your home. Hair, food, grease, and any non-soluble items that make their way down the drain may be causing an unpleasant smell. There are some common household items that can help alleviate these bad smells and leave your home smelling fresh.

Below are some top tips to keep your drains clean and smelling fresh.

1. Hot water

The easiest and most convenient way is to pour hot water down your drains. This is a cost-effective way to remove hardened dirt that could be causing smells to come from your drains. Do not waste your boiled water when you make a cup of tea or cook pasta, simply pop the excess down the drain rather than leaving it to go cold, make use of it! Plus, water is not toxic, so it is a fantastic way to help keep them clean and not damage your pipes.

2. Baking Soda

Baking soda is one of the safest ways to clean drains that have been clogged by hair or other substances. Allowing it to rest down the drain, it will absorb the smell and dissipate it instead of letting it escape into your home. It helps break down dirt so that it can be easily removed from the drain without causing harm to your pipes. If you are going on holiday, it would be a clever idea to sprinkle some baking soda down the drain before you go!

3. White vinegar 

White vinegar is another safe and natural way to clean your drains. It has antibacterial properties that can eliminate germs and bacteria in the pipes. And, as a bonus, it is a multi-purpose cleaner and can be used in many different areas of your home.

4. Lemon juice

The citric acid in lemon juice acts as an abrasive cleaner that can help reduce the amount of grime built up on the sides of your pipes. All you have to do is pour half a cup of lemon juice down the drain every week or so to help keep it clean and get rid of odours, leaving your home smelling fresh!

There are four easy and cost-effective methods that will help you tackle an unpleasant smell coming from any one of your drains. These can be great for a quick and inexpensive fix. However, should your smell persist, or they are a regular occurrence we would recommend having a drain specialist run drain smell diagnostics. Your drainage smells might not always be a simple fix as those above, but if you are concerned about any drainage problems, please don’t hesitate to contact us on 01386 882324. 

Why Fat, Oil & Grease Are Your Drains’ Worst Nightmare

If you’ve ever battled a sluggish sink, or worse, faced the horror of a full-blown drain blockage, chances are, fat, oil, and grease (FOG) are the prime suspects.

These seemingly innocuous liquids, remnants of our culinary endeavours, undergo a chilling transformation once they descend into the depths of our drainage systems. As they cool, they solidify, morphing into a sticky, tenacious substance that adheres to the interior walls of your pipes. Over time, this build-up constricts the flow, leading to progressively worsening drainage problems, and eventually, a complete blockage.

While commercial kitchens, with their high volumes of food preparation, are particularly vulnerable to FOG-related issues, the domestic kitchen is by no means immune. Even a seemingly small amount of grease, carelessly poured down the sink, can contribute to costly damage.

A complete drain blockage is a homeowner's nightmare, so what is it and how can we avoid it?

How Does FOG Cause Blockages?

The journey of FOG through your drainage system is a tale of gradual, insidious accumulation. Initially, these substances appear harmless, flowing freely as liquids. However, the cool temperatures within the pipes trigger a phase change, causing them to solidify.

This solidifying grease acts like a sticky trap, capturing food particles, hair, soap scum, and other debris that find their way down the drain. Over time, this concoction forms a thick, impenetrable layer that narrows the pipe's diameter, significantly impeding water flow.

As the blockage intensifies, water struggles to navigate the constricted passage. In extreme cases, this leads to overflowing sinks, emitting unpleasant odours that permeate your home, and, in the worst-case scenario, the dreaded wastewater backup. This not only causes significant damage to your property but also poses a health hazard.

How to Prevent FOG Build-Up in Your Drains

Fortunately, safeguarding your drainage system from the clutches of FOG is achievable with a few simple, yet crucial, habits:

• Never pour grease down the sink: This is the golden rule. Instead, allow the grease to cool completely and scrape it into a suitable container, such as an old jar or a sealable bag, before disposing of it in the bin.
• Employ a drain strainer: A simple mesh strainer placed over the plughole acts as a barrier, preventing food scraps and larger particles from entering the drainage system.
• Wipe greasy pans with a paper towel: Before washing your pots and pans, use a paper towel to remove any excess oil or grease. This significantly reduces the amount of FOG entering your drains.
• Dispose of cooking oil responsibly: Many local recycling centres accept used cooking oil, often converting it into biofuel. Check with your local council for designated collection points.
• Regularly flush drains with hot water and washing-up liquid: This simple routine can help break down small amounts of grease before they have a chance to solidify and accumulate. Pour a kettle of boiling water mixed with a generous squirt of washing-up liquid down the drain, allowing the hot water to emulsify and flush away any residual grease.
• Consider a grease trap: For those who frequently cook with large amounts of oil, a grease trap installed under the sink can effectively separate FOG from wastewater.

Signs You Have a FOG Blockage

Recognising the early warning signs of a FOG blockage can prevent a full-blown drainage disaster:

• Slow drainage: Water draining sluggishly from your sink is a tell-tale sign of a developing blockage.
• Gurgling sounds from your sink: Unusual noises emanating from your drains indicate trapped air and restricted water flow.
• Unpleasant odours: Foul smells rising from your sink or drains suggest the presence of decomposing organic matter trapped within the blockage.
• Water backing up in the sink: This alarming sign indicates a severe blockage that requires immediate attention.

If you suspect a FOG blockage, do not ignore it. Procrastination will only exacerbate the problem, leading to more extensive and costly repairs.

What to Do If Your Drains Are Blocked

If your sink is draining slowly or completely blocked, you can attempt to clear the blockage yourself.

• Boiling water and washing-up liquid: Pour a kettle of boiling water mixed with a generous amount of washing-up liquid down the drain. This can help to loosen and break down minor blockages.
• Plunger: A plunger can create suction to dislodge stubborn clogs. Ensure a good seal around the plughole and plunge vigorously.

For persistent or severe blockages, it is imperative to seek professional assistance. At Cotswold Drainage, we employ specialised equipment, such as high-pressure water jetting and drain snakes, to effectively clear FOG build-ups and restore your drains to their optimal flow.

Keep Your Drains Clear and Problem-Free

A proactive approach to FOG prevention is the key to maintaining a healthy and efficient drainage system. By adopting the simple habits outlined above, you can significantly reduce the risk of messy and expensive blockages. However, if you are already grappling with a drainage issue, do not hesitate to contact us today.

Chances are, you’re no stranger to smelly drains, most of us have encountered one at some point, but what causes drains to smell and what can you do to fix it? Well, we’re going to run through three drain problem areas and some quick fixes for each.

We’ll look at odours from kitchen sinks, bathroom drains and outdoor drains as well as some quick fixes you can try for each. Right off the bat, however, if your drain is concerning you or you’re already at your wit’s end with it, it’s time to call in the experts. That being said, let’s get into it.

Smelly drains from kitchen sink

Like most people, you probably ask quite a lot of your kitchen sink on a daily basis. Kitchen drains handle all kinds of food waste and grease, and, over time, this can cause blockages or fatty build-ups that can begin to rot and kick up a bit of a whiff. 

Thankfully, smelly kitchen sink drains are usually pretty easy to fix. Your first port of call should be your kettle. Fill it, boil it and pour the hot water down your kitchen drain and repeat a few times before running your hot tap for a minute or two. In most cases, this will melt and dislodge any fatty build-ups. 

If your drain still smells after this, your next step should be a domestic drain unblocking solution. You can get these easily from most supermarkets. Follow the instructions on the label and hopefully this should do the trick.If you’re still dealing with a smelly drain after this point, it’s time to pick up the phone and dial 01386 882324 – we’ll handle it for you.

Smelly drains from bathroom sinks

Unlike kitchen drains, smelly drains in your bathroom are likely caused by the accumulation of more solid materials such as hair or soap residue. To fix a smelly drain in your bathroom, you may be able to remove clumps of material with a simple drain snake tool. This won’t be the nicest task, but it should be relatively quick and easy. 

Otherwise, you can always try removing the U-bend and clearing any debris or using a drain unblocking solution.

Again, if these DIY solutions don’t give you the results you need, it’s time to call in professional help. Get in touch with the expert team at Cotswold Drainage.

Smelly outside drains

Unfortunately, smelly drains outside are a different kettle of fish. Your outside drains connect directly to the public sewer network and are more difficult to access and assess. Blockages could be caused by a huge range of issues, from greasy buildups to materials washed in during a storm.

If you have a smelly outside drain, you will likely need a CCTV drain survey and the help of a trained professional with the right equipment to find and resolve the issue. Trying some of the DIY fixes listed above for kitchen and bathroom drains certainly won’t hurt, but you’re unlikely to find them quite as effective on your outside drains.

Say goodbye to smelly drains

We won’t lie, in many cases simple DIY fixes, like a kettle full of water or a bottle of drain unblocker from the supermarket, are all it takes to clear a pongy drain, but sometimes the only solution is to draft in the professionals.

At Cotswold Drainage, we have the trained, experienced staff and all the tools to get your drains smelling, well, like they’re not blocked and keep them that way. If you’ve run out of solutions or just out of patience, drop us a line and we’ll make all your drainage headaches go away.

You can call us on 01386 882324, email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or fill out our contact form here.

How landlords can limit emergency drain callouts

Owning rental properties comes with its own set of unique challenges, including maintaining the drainage system. Close proximity to water sources like rivers, older Victorian homes, or even an abundance of trees on the property can sometimes lead to specific drainage issues that need regular attention. As a landlord, staying on top of potential problems can save you from emergency callouts. Here are some simple checks you can make to ensure your drains stay in good condition:

1. Regular visual inspections of drainage areas

Inspect the drains around your property regularly. Look for visible cracks in the pipes, water stains, or damp patches in areas like basements, kitchens, and bathrooms. Properties near streams and rivers may be more susceptible to ground shifts or water infiltration, so keeping an eye out for any unusual moisture can help catch early signs of a potential drainage problem.

2. Monitor water flow and drainage speed

Check the flow of water in sinks, bathtubs, and showers. If water drains slowly or backs up in toilets or sinks, it could indicate a blockage forming in your drainage system. This might not be from an internal blockage in the property, but an external blockage caused by debris or damage to outside drains.

3. Be alert to unpleasant odors

A bad smell from drains is often one of the first signs of a blockage or buildup in the system. If you detect foul odors coming from your kitchen, bathroom, or outdoor drains, it’s important to address the issue early. Odors can often indicate that debris or organic material is obstructing the flow, which can lead to bigger problems if not handled.

4. Inspect for cracks or leaks in exposed pipes

Inspect exposed pipes, particularly in older homes, which may be more susceptible to wear and corrosion. Check for cracks, rust, or leaks, which can lead to water damage and larger repair down the line. Early detection of damage and quick repairs can prevent more severe issues such as collapsed drains or flooding.

5. Check for tree root intrusion

Homes with large gardens or mature trees may face issues with tree roots infiltrating the drainage system. Roots can cause blockages or damage to pipes over time. Regularly inspect the ground near pipes and drains for signs of root intrusion, especially around older properties, which may have aging plumbing systems that are more vulnerable

6. Maintain gutters and downspouts

Clogged gutters and downspouts can lead to water runoff that overwhelms the drainage system, causing blockages or flooding. Regularly clean out leaves, twigs, and other debris, particularly in properties surrounded by trees or foliage. This will help maintain proper water flow and prevent unnecessary strain on the drains.

7. Check for blockages in toilets and sinks

Toilets and sinks are frequent culprits of blockages. Encourage tenants to avoid flushing inappropriate items such as wet wipes or sanitary products, which can cause blockages. You should also check toilets for any signs of slow flushing or persistent blockages, as these can be a sign of a more significant drain issue.

8. Keep an eye on standing water in the yard

Standing water in the yard could indicate a blockage or problem with the drainage or sewer line. Properties near water sources may experience soil shifts or flooding during heavy rainfall, so it’s important to keep an eye out for water buildup. Addressing this issue early can help prevent serious drainage problems that can lead to water damage or expensive repairs.

9. Be aware of unusual noises

Listen for any unusual noises like gurgling or bubbling from drains, which are often early signs of a blockage. If you notice gurgling sounds, it’s time to check the system before it becomes an emergency.

Bonus tip: Schedule regular professional inspections

Scheduling annual inspections such as CCTV surveys from a professional drainage service can help spot issues that are not immediately obvious. Professional inspections can identify root causes of blockages, wear and tear on pipes, and early signs of system failures, preventing major problems down the road.

By staying proactive and performing regular checks, landlords can avoid costly emergency drain repairs and keep their rental properties in good condition. With a little care and attention, you can ensure your tenants are happy and your property stays in top shape.

The convenience of modern life often comes with hidden drawbacks. Wet wipes, baby wipes, and other hygiene products, often marketed as "flushable," seem like an easy solution for cleanliness. However, beneath the surface of our homes, a silent battle is being waged within our drainage systems. The truth is, these products are far from harmless to our pipes.

Unlike traditional toilet paper, which is designed to break down rapidly in water, wet wipes retain their structural integrity for extended periods. This simple difference leads to a cascade of problems. Over time, these resilient wipes accumulate, becoming entangled with grease, hair, food remnants, and other debris, forming stubborn blockages. These obstructions manifest as slow-draining sinks and toilets, unpleasant odours, and, in severe cases, sewage backups that can flood homes and gardens.

The Mechanics of Blockages: Why Wet Wipes Are the Culprits

Even when a wet wipe seemingly vanishes down the toilet bowl, its journey is far from over. The majority of wet wipes are made from synthetic fibres, often a mix of plastics and cellulose, which are inherently resistant to biodegradation. Instead of breaking down, these fibres act like a net, capturing other materials within the pipes. This amalgamation forms solid, impenetrable masses that drastically restrict water flow, leading to a host of problems:

• Insidiously Slow-Draining Sinks and Toilets: The gradual accumulation of debris impedes water flow, resulting in noticeable delays in drainage.
• Offensive Odours Emanating from Drains: Trapped organic matter decomposes, releasing foul-smelling gases that permeate the surrounding environment.
• Sewage Backups into Homes and Gardens: In severe cases, complete blockages can force sewage to reverse its flow, inundating properties with contaminated water.
• Emergency Drain Unblocking Costs: Addressing severe blockages often necessitates professional intervention, incurring preventable expenses.
• Environmental Degradation: The flow of these wipes into sewage systems impacts wildlife and pollutes rivers and seas, contributing to a wider environmental problem.

Beyond individual households, sewer systems across the UK are struggling with the growing issue of “fatbergs”—massive conglomerates of congealed waste, primarily composed of wet wipes and solidified grease. These monstrous blockages wreak havoc on local drainage networks, causing significant disruption and requiring extensive, unnecessary removal operations.

Proactive Measures to Protect Your Drains

1. Eliminate Wet Wipe Flushing – Even Those Labelled “Flushable”: The most effective preventative measure is to abstain from flushing wet wipes altogether. Regardless of marketing claims, the safest course of action is to dispose of them in a bin dedicated to non-recyclable waste.
2. Implement Drain Guards: Simple, inexpensive mesh drain guards placed in sinks and showers serve as crucial barriers, trapping hair, food particles, and other debris before they enter the drainage system, significantly mitigating the risk of blockages.
3. Establish a Regular Drain Maintenance Routine: Even with meticulous disposal habits, a degree of build-up is inevitable. To ensure optimal drain functionality:
   • Periodically flush pipes with hot water and a mild detergent solution to dislodge accumulated debris.
   • Utilise a drain-safe enzyme cleaner, designed to break down organic matter without harming pipes.
   • Schedule an annual professional drain inspection to identify and address potential issues before they escalate.

Addressing Existing Blockages Effectively

If your drains are exhibiting signs of sluggishness or emitting unpleasant odours, prompt action is crucial. While DIY solutions such as plungers or mild drain cleaners may alleviate minor clogs, persistent problems necessitate professional intervention. Drainage specialists employ advanced techniques such as high-pressure water jetting and CCTV drain surveys to accurately diagnose and efficiently clear blockages without causing damage to your pipes.

Concluding Thoughts

The convenience afforded by wet wipes and hygiene products comes at a significant cost to our drainage infrastructure and the environment. By adopting responsible disposal practices and adhering to a consistent drain maintenance schedule, we can prevent costly repairs and ensure the smooth operation of our drainage systems.

If you require assistance with a blocked drain, do not hesitate to contact us.