That may seem like a strange name for a plumbing part until youunderstand the functionof this part.

There are different types of drain traps for various purposes, but p-traps are the most common.

Even your toilet has an internal trap shape to its porcelain configuration that serves exactly the same function.

Drain tap located underneath kitchen sink with open cabinet doors

The Spruce / Nelly Cuanalo

If a drain trap is dry, the sewer gas can escape and cause the smell.

Sewer gas is hydrogen sulfide, which is created as organic waste decays.

They’re a small but critical piece that keeps these fixtures functioning smoothly.

Drain trap pipe under the kitchen sink and connected to garbage disposal

The Spruce / Nelly Cuanalo

Here are a few of the most commonly used types as well as how and why they’re used.

A drain trap should easily disconnect to allow you to empty out any debris or aclogged drain.

Empty the contents into a trash can, then reattach.

Drain valve turned off near bottom of toilet

The Spruce / Nelly Cuanalo

This is required for it to be up to code.