The short answer
Find the Source First
A sewer smell in your nose is usually a sign that sewer gas is leaking into your living space. The gas can irritate your nasal passages and make you think the smell is stuck in your nose. Check the most common spots: floor drains, sink drains, and toilet seals.
Run water in every drain that you do not use often, like a guest bathroom sink or a floor drain in the laundry room. A dry drain can let sewer gas rise up. If the smell goes away after running water, the fix is as simple as keeping those drains wet.
- Run water in unused drains weekly
- Check the toilet base for cracks or loose seals
- Look for leaks under sinks or near the washing machine
- Listen for gurgling sounds in drains, which can signal a vent issue
- Inspect the water heater drain and the AC condensate line
Rinse Your Nasal Passages
Once you have addressed the likely source, you can flush the smell out of your nose. Use a saline nasal spray or a neti pot with distilled water. This helps clear irritants and soothes the lining of your nasal passages.
You can also take a hot shower and breathe in the steam. Steam adds moisture and can help your nose recover. If you feel dizzy, nauseous, or have a headache, leave the area and get fresh air. See a doctor if symptoms continue.
- Use only distilled or boiled water for a neti pot
- Breathe steam from a hot shower for five minutes
- Avoid strong cleaning fumes that can make the smell worse
- Keep windows open for ventilation while you work
When to Call Local Pros
If you cannot find the source or the smell keeps coming back, it is time to call local water damage pros. They have tools to detect hidden leaks and sewer gas entry points. They can also dry out areas that have been wet for a while.
If you live in Daytona Beach, keep the number of a trusted water damage service handy. A humid climate can make moisture problems worse and odors more persistent. Acting quickly can prevent more damage and reduce the chance of mold growth.
Prevent Future Sewer Smells
Regular maintenance can stop sewer smells before they start. Pour a cup of water down floor drains every month in the summer and during hurricane season. This keeps the trap full and blocks gas from rising up.
Have your plumbing checked if you notice recurring odors. A plumber can inspect the vent stack and look for cracks in pipes. Fixing small issues early is easier than dealing with a major leak or water damage later.
- Pour water down floor drains monthly
- Check under sinks for drips every few weeks
- Replace worn toilet wax rings when needed
- Keep the AC drain line clear of clogs
- Know where your main water shutoff valve is
Need help right now?
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Call Now (386) 272-5697Frequently asked questions
Can sewer gas make you sick?
Yes, high levels of sewer gas can cause headaches, nausea, and dizziness. Low levels may just irritate your eyes and throat. If you feel unwell, leave the area and get fresh air. See a doctor if symptoms persist.
Why does my bathroom smell like sewer even after cleaning?
Cleaning does not fix a dry drain or a broken vent pipe. Run water in the shower and sink for a minute. If the smell stays, check the toilet seal or call a plumber to inspect the vent system.
Is a sewer smell a sign of water damage?
It can be. A broken sewer pipe can leak water into walls or floors, causing damage and odor. Look for stains, soft spots, or a musty smell. If you find these, water damage pros can help dry and repair the area.