Why Your Cupboard Under The Sink Smells! (Solved)

The sink is commonly associated with unique odors and it’s normal to want to keep this part of the house clean.

While this is true, you will also want to think about the surrounding elements in the kitchen.

This includes the cupboard under the sink. There can be a situation where the cupboard under the sink smells and it’s best to act right away when this occurs.

If a cupboard under the sink smells, start by inspecting for a water leak, remove all accessible debris, and wash the surface using a cleaning agent.

The most common reason for the cupboard under a sink stinking has to do with a water leak. This is due to the sink being right above it with pipes running underneath. If there’s a leak, you will notice the odor.

Take care of the water leak and you will be good to go.

If there is no water leak, get rid of any excess debris that is in the cupboard and wash it using a cleaning agent.

This guide will look at what you have to do when the cupboard under the sink smells.

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Steps To Follow If The Cupboard Under Sink Smells

1. Check For A Water Leak

If the under sink cabinet smells musty, it’s likely going to come down to a water leak.

Piping tends to run underneath the sink and it often goes through the cupboard. You will want to immediately check to see whether or not there is water dripping under the sink as that will be the reason for the stench.

A cupboard that smells under the sink is not a good sign.

You will want to take care of the water leak before it damages everything.

To do this, look at where the water is dripping. You will likely have to tighten one of the bolts to make sure it stops. Otherwise, turn off the water supply and change that part of the pipe as soon as possible.

cupboard under sink smells

2. Remove All Accessible Debris

When the water leak has been taken care of, it’s time to look at what else can be done for the stinky cupboard under the sink.

You will have to start by clearing out the debris that is inside.

This will also include excess water that has already dripped onto the floor of the cupboard. Wipe it away.

Make sure to vacuum the rest of the debris so you have a blank slate to work with. This is a must if you want to do things the right way.

3. Spray Cleaning Agent Inside The Cupboard

When you are done cleaning and vacuuming the cupboard, it is best to take a look at what can be done to get rid of the lingering odor.

To get rid of the odor under the sink, you will need a potent cleaning agent.

This can be anything including baking soda.

Just make sure to apply it to the surface and then scrub as much as you can. You will want to get the residue off of the surface as that is what is creating that odor.

Make sure to cover the entire surface and then let it sit for a few minutes.

cupboard under sink smells

4. Wipe Everything

The last step is going to be to wipe everything and make sure the cupboard is ready for use again.

You can use a clean cloth for this step in the process.

Do not rush the process and make sure you are organizing everything to ensure it is done the right way. This is a must and you will want to be careful about the approach you take in a situation such as this.

When you are wiping, it is also recommended to wipe the pipe.

This will make sure any residue that is still left behind is removed too. You want to work with a blank slate and that is why wiping every inch of the cupboard is important.

Final Thoughts

These steps will help if the cupboard under the sink smells.

If the cupboard under the sink smells, the most likely cause is a water leak. Start by finding the leak, tightening the bolt, and/or replacing the pipe. Once done, vacuum the debris, spray a strong cleaning agent/baking soda, and wipe everything.

This is the only way to make sure the cupboard does not stink and it works out as you want it to.

Remember, if you are not taking the time to wipe everything, mold can develop under the sink. Be vigorous with your wiping and make sure to use a good cleaning agent.

This is the only way to regulate the odor and make sure it goes away for good.

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