The buildup of grime, oil, grease, bacteria and food particles in the kitchen sink can spread bad odors. So experts recommend washing and cleaning the sink at least once a day. If your sink smells bad when the dishwasher is running, it could be due to a number of things. Here are a few possible causes of a bad smell in your sink: Food particles or grease stuck in the drain, Plumbing issues, Sewage problems, Clogged pipe, Bacterial growth, etc.
If the bad smell persists after you have tried cleaning the dishwasher and eliminating any potential plumbing issues, it is a good idea to consult a plumber.
Why does the Kitchen sink smell when the dishwasher runs?
Here are a few possible causes:
- Food particles stuck in the filters can start to rot and produce a bad smell.
- Bacteria can grow in moist environments, and the sink is an ideal moist surface for this to occur.
- If your dishwasher has a bad smell even after cleaning it, it could be due to a plumbing issue like a blockage or leak in the pipes.
- Using too many dishwashers can leave a residue on the sink, causing a bad smell.
- If your dishwasher is not regularly cleaned, it can accumulate food particles and bacteria, which can cause a bad odor.
Keep sink smelling good while using a dishwasher
There are a few ways you can keep your sink smelling fresh and clean:
Using a drain cleaner regularly can help prevent debris from building up in the drain.
Running hot water down the drain after each use can help to flush away any food particles or grease that may be stuck in the drain.
Use a sink strainer to catch any food particles or debris that may be washed down the drain. This simple filter net can prevent clogging the drain and causing a bad smell.
Wipe down the sink with a disinfectant cleaner after each use to help prevent the growth of bacteria. You can spray lemon water to remove the odor.
If your sink tends to stay damp, try to dry it off after each use by wiping the wet surface with a soft cloth or tissue paper to prevent the growth of bacteria.
Related: How do you clean black mold in the kitchen sink?
Type of dishwasher
There are several types of dishwashers available on the market. Here are a few common types:
Built-in dishwashers: These standard and compact dishwashers are designed to be installed under a kitchen countertop. They are typically 24 inches wide.
Portable dishwashers: These dishwashers can be moved from one location to another as they have wheels attached. So it is a good option for people who don’t have a built-in dishwasher in their kitchen or who need a dishwasher for a temporary location.
Countertop dishwashers: These dishwashers are typically installed on top of a kitchen counter and are a good option for compact kitchens.
Drawer dishwashers: These dishwashers are installed under a kitchen countertop and feature two drawers that can be opened and closed independently. You can also use only one drawer at a time to save water and energy.
Integrated dishwashers: These dishwashers are also installed under a kitchen countertop and have a panel on the front that matches the cabinets or countertop for a seamless look. But they are not movable.
Slimline dishwashers: These dishwashers are slightly narrower than standard dishwashers and are a good option for people who don’t have a lot of space.
When choosing a dishwasher, it is important to consider the size of your kitchen, your budget, and your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: Why does my kitchen sink start smelling bad every time I run the dishwasher?
Answer: The smell likely comes from food debris trapped in the dishwasher or the sink’s plumbing. Regular cleaning of the dishwasher filter and using a drain cleaner can help.
Question: Is it normal for a foul odor to come from the sink when the dishwasher is on?
Answer: No, it’s not normal. This usually indicates a plumbing issue, such as a clogged vent pipe or a malfunctioning P-trap under the sink.
Question: What can I do to prevent the kitchen sink from smelling when I use the dishwasher?
Answer: Ensure that the dishwasher’s drain hose is installed correctly with a high loop to prevent backflow. Also, clean both the dishwasher filter and the sink drain regularly.
Question: Can a blocked dishwasher filter cause my sink to smell?
Answer: Yes, a blocked dishwasher filter can cause food particles to decay, leading to unpleasant odors that may be noticeable at the sink.
Question: Does running hot water in the sink help with the smell when the dishwasher is running?
Answer: Running hot water can help dislodge minor clogs, but if the smell persists, you might need to check for deeper blockages or plumbing issues.
Question: Could a problem with my home’s venting system cause sink odors when the dishwasher runs?
Answer: Absolutely. If your home’s plumbing vent system is blocked, it can cause poor drainage and result in foul odors emanating from the sink.
Question: Is there a specific cleaner I should use for a smelly sink when the dishwasher runs?
Answer: For mild odors, baking soda and vinegar can be effective. For persistent smells, a commercial drain cleaner or a plumbing inspection might be necessary.
Question: Should I call a plumber if my kitchen sink always smells when I run the dishwasher?
Answer: Yes, if the issue persists despite cleaning and troubleshooting, it’s wise to consult a professional plumber.
Question: Could the smell be coming from the dishwasher itself?
Answer: Yes, sometimes the dishwasher may need a thorough cleaning, including the spray arms and the filter, to prevent odor transfer to the sink.
Question: Are there any DIY methods to check why my sink smells when the dishwasher runs?
Answer: You can check for clogs in the sink trap and ensure the dishwasher hose has a high loop. Also, inspect the garbage disposal, if you have one, as it can be a source of odor.
Question: Can old pipes contribute to the smell issue when using the dishwasher?
Answer: Yes, older pipes can accumulate debris and cause odors. Consider having them inspected or replaced if they are very old.
Question: Is it a problem with my dishwasher or plumbing if there’s a smell from the sink?
Answer: It could be either. Check the dishwasher’s filter and hose first, and then investigate the sink’s plumbing, including the P-trap and vent system.
