FAQs
Urine (pee) is made up of water and waste. Urine smells stronger when there's less water or more waste. Certain foods, medications, and dehydration can cause smelly pee or make your urine smell differently. Talk with a healthcare provider if you have foul or fishy smelling urine — these can be a sign of infection.
Why does my pee smell bad even though it's clear? ›
Common causes of smelly pee
certain types of food and drink, like asparagus or coffee. not drinking enough fluids (dehydration) some medicines. vitamin B6 supplements.
Why does my pee smell bad even though I drink a lot of water? ›
Smelly urine or urine that has an unusual odor may be a result of diabetes, an infection, eating asparagus, or using certain medications, among other causes. Treatment can depend on the underlying cause. Urine often has a slight ammonia smell, especially first thing in the morning or when a person is dehydrated.
How do you get rid of a strong urine smell? ›
Make a solution of baking soda, peroxide and any dish detergent. The combination of the three is often powerful enough to drive away strong urine smells. The solutions is eight fluid ounces of peroxide, three tablespoons of baking soda, and a few drops of dish detergent.
What does diabetic pee smell like? ›
If you have diabetes, you may notice your pee smells sweet or fruity. This is because the body is trying to get rid of the excess blood sugar and is disposing of glucose through your urine. For people who haven't been diagnosed with diabetes, this symptom can be one of the first signs they have the disease.
When should I be worried about smelly urine? ›
See your GP if: you have symptoms of a urinary tract infection (UTI), such as pain, presence of blood, or a burning sensation when urinating and a need to urinate often - this is the most likely cause of unexplained foul-smelling urine.
Why does my urine smell but no infection? ›
Some foods and medicines, such as asparagus or certain vitamins, can cause urine odor, even in small amounts. Sometimes, urine odor points to a medical condition or disease, such as: Bacterial vaginosis (irritation of the vagin*)
Does smelly urine mean kidney problems? ›
Kidney disease causes chemicals in urine to become concentrated and to cause a smell resembling ammonia. Kidney dysfunction can also cause high bacteria and protein levels in the urine, which will contribute to a foul ammonia smell.
Does liver problem cause smelly urine? ›
Liver disease and certain metabolic disorders may cause musty-smelling urine. Some conditions that can cause changes in urine odor include: Bladder fistula. Bladder infection.
Why can I smell myself through my pants? ›
Limiting frequent bathing can lead to dirt, sweat and dead skin cells build up leading to Your clothes have a strong smell. You can reduce these effects by showering regularly and washing with mild soap and warm water. Sweating in the groin area can attract fungi and bacteria that lead to bad odors.
Pee that smells like ammonia
If you detect a hint of ammonia in your urine, it could be a sign of a urinary tract infection (UTI). The odor suggests that bacteria may be swimming around in your urinary system, most likely in your urethra, kidneys or bladder.
What do nursing homes use to get rid of urine smell? ›
Hospitals, nursing homes, health care clinics, and other facilities have relied on ZORBX® as the guaranteed odor remover for urine, bile, human waste and other body fluids. Try it and Start Enjoying The Sweet Smell of... Nothing.
What medications cause urine to smell bad? ›
Foul-Smelling Urine: Vitamins & Medication
- Sulfonamide antibiotics. An example is Bactrim, which is commonly used to treat UTIs.
- Diabetes medications. These sulfa drugs are sold under the names Diabeta, Glynase PresTabs.
- Rheumatoid arthritis medications. This sulfa drug is sold under the name of Azulfidine.
What causes urine to smell like rotten? ›
Foods that convert to sulfur compounds in your body can make your urine smell rotten. This smell is commonly compared to rotten cabbage or rotten eggs and can come from eating asparagus, garlic, and onions. There are rare conditions that create a rotten smell, too. Trimethylaminuria.
Why does my toilet smell like urine even after I clean it? ›
Undetected leaks in your toilet, pipes, or even the wax ring can allow urine to accumulate in hard-to-reach places. The stagnant urine may create a persistent smell that regular cleaning won't eliminate. Leaks can be insidious and may not be immediately noticeable, but they can contribute to the ongoing odor problem.