Why Is There a Sewer Smell in My Laundry Room?
Last updated October 26, 2026
The short answer
Check the Washing Machine Drain Hose
The most common cause is the washing machine drain hose. If the hose is not inserted far enough into the standpipe, sewer gas can slip out around it. The hose should extend at least a few inches past the pipe opening, but not so far that it blocks the pipe completely.
Also inspect the hose for cracks or gaps where the rubber meets the drain. A loose clamp or a worn connection can let odors escape. If the hose looks damaged, replacing it is a straightforward fix that often solves the problem.
- Check the hose for cracks or holes
- Make sure the hose sits securely in the standpipe
- Look for loose clamps or fittings
- Replace a worn hose if needed
Inspect the Floor Drain and P-Trap
Many laundry rooms have a floor drain that connects to the sewer. If that drain is not used often, the water in the P-trap can evaporate, leaving a direct path for sewer gas to rise. Pour a cup of water down the drain to refill the trap and see if the smell goes away.
If the smell returns quickly, the trap may be cracked or the drain line may be leaking. A slow leak can allow gas to escape even when water is present. Check for damp spots around the drain or under the washing machine.
- Pour water down the floor drain monthly
- Look for cracks in the trap or pipe
- Feel for dampness around the drain
- Listen for gurgling sounds when water drains
Look at the Vent Stack on the Roof
The plumbing vent stack on your roof releases sewer gases safely outside. If that vent gets blocked by leaves, bird nests, or debris, gases can back up into your home. You might notice gurgling sounds from drains or a stronger smell after heavy rain.
Checking the vent requires going on the roof, which can be risky. If you suspect a blockage, a plumber can inspect the stack and clear it. In humid coastal areas like Daytona Beach, heavy storms can sometimes dislodge debris that clogs vents.
When to Call for Professional Help
If you cannot find the source after checking the hose, drain, and vent, the problem may be deeper in the plumbing. A cracked sewer line under the slab or a failing wax ring on a nearby toilet can produce persistent odors. These issues are not safe to handle alone.
Local water damage pros can assess the situation and identify any water damage that may have occurred. They use tools to detect hidden leaks and dry out affected areas. If you live in Daytona Beach, keep the number of a reliable plumbing service handy for emergencies.
Need help right now?
Call (386) 272-5697 any time, day or night, and describe what happened.
Call Now (386) 272-5697Frequently asked questions
Is sewer gas in my laundry room dangerous?
Sewer gas contains methane and hydrogen sulfide, which can cause headaches, nausea, and dizziness in high concentrations. Low levels are unpleasant but not immediately dangerous. If you feel unwell, leave the area and see a doctor. Open windows to ventilate the room.
How do I know if the smell is from the washing machine or the drain?
Run the washing machine on a short cycle and see if the smell gets stronger. If it does, the hose or the machine itself is likely the source. If the smell is constant even when the washer is off, check the floor drain and the P-trap first.
Can I use bleach to get rid of the sewer smell?
Bleach can kill odor-causing bacteria in the drain, but it does not fix the underlying leak or vent issue. Pouring a cup of bleach down the drain may temporarily mask the smell. The real fix is finding and repairing the source, whether that is a dry trap or a cracked pipe.