The short answer
Find the Source First
Sewage odor usually means there is an active leak, a backup, or a spill somewhere. Check toilets, drains, and the base of the plumbing for cracks or loose seals. Also look for wet spots on floors, walls, or ceilings, since sewage can travel along pipes and soak into hidden areas.
If you cannot find the source, you may need to have a plumber inspect the pipes. A water damage inspection can also help identify moisture that feeds the smell. Acting quickly matters because the odor can spread and the waste can damage building materials.
Stop the Flow and Ventilate
Once you find the source, stop any active flow. If it is a backed-up drain, avoid using that fixture. If it is a leak, shut off the water supply to that area if you can do so safely. Open windows and doors to bring in fresh air, but do not use fans if the air may carry particles.
Ventilation helps reduce the odor level while you work. If the smell is strong, wear gloves, a mask, and eye protection. Keep children and pets away from the affected area. If you feel unwell from the odor, step outside and see a doctor if symptoms continue.
Remove Waste and Clean Surfaces
Remove any solid waste carefully and dispose of it in sealed bags. For wet areas, use towels or a wet vacuum to pick up standing water. Then clean all hard surfaces with a disinfectant cleaner designed for sewage. Scrub well, then rinse with clean water.
Do not mix cleaning products, as that can create dangerous fumes. After cleaning, dry the area completely. Use dehumidifiers and fans to speed up drying, but only after the area is clean and safe. If the spill was large, the pros may be needed for thorough sanitation.
Wear rubber gloves and a mask during cleanup.
Dispose of waste in heavy-duty trash bags.
Use a disinfectant that lists sewage on the label.
Rinse surfaces with clean water after cleaning.
Dry the area with fans and dehumidifiers.
Wash your hands thoroughly after handling anything.
Dry and Deodorize Thoroughly
Sewage odor can linger because moisture is trapped in wood, drywall, carpet, or padding. After cleaning, run a dehumidifier to pull moisture from the air and materials. Keep the space warm and ventilated for several days. This helps stop mold and mildew, which can add their own smells.
For odors that remain, use an enzymatic cleaner made for organic waste. These products break down the waste residue that causes the smell. If the odor stays in porous materials like drywall or carpet, you may need to remove and replace those sections. The pros can handle structural drying and deodorizing to reach hidden spaces.
Run a dehumidifier for at least 48 hours.
Use an enzyme-based odor remover.
Replace porous materials that still smell.
Check for mold growth after drying.
When to Call the Pros
Some sewage cleanup is too large or dangerous for a homeowner to handle. If the spill covers a big area, soaked into walls or flooring, or has been there for a while, local water damage pros can do the work. They have the equipment to extract water, dry structures, and deodorize properly.
They can also inspect for hidden damage and help prevent future issues. If you live in Euless, keep your shutoff valve location written down so you can act fast in an emergency. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered, so check your policy if you plan to file a claim.
Large spills that cover more than a small area.
Sewage that has soaked into drywall or insulation.
Odors that return after cleaning and drying.
Any situation where you feel unsafe or unwell.
Need help right now?
Water keeps spreading into floors and walls, so it is worth acting early. Calls are answered 24/7.
Call Now (817) 799-6732Frequently asked questions
Why does the smell come back after cleaning?
The smell often returns because waste residue or moisture is still trapped in porous materials like wood, drywall, or carpet. Cleaning the surface is not enough. You may need to dry the area thoroughly and use an enzymatic cleaner, or remove and replace the affected materials.
Can I use bleach to remove sewage odor?
Bleach can disinfect hard surfaces, but it does not always break down the organic residue that causes the odor. It also does not penetrate porous materials. Use a cleaner made for sewage first, then rinse, dry, and consider an enzymatic deodorizer for lingering smells.
Is sewage odor dangerous to breathe?
Sewage can contain bacteria, viruses, and gases that are not safe to breathe in large amounts. If the smell is strong, leave the area and ventilate. Wear a mask if you must enter. If you feel nauseous, dizzy, or have breathing trouble, see a doctor.