Troubles with the toilet are never pleasant to handle, especially when they're creating an unpleasant smell! If your toilet emits an unpleasant smell after flushing, then you've probably attempted to look into the bowl of your toilet to find out where the issue originates. However, the primary reason for this problem has nothing to do with the toilet - but more with the way it's attached to the flooring.

To remedy a toilet that smells foul, inspect the wax ring around the base of the toilet. If the ring's surface isn't properly sealed to the floor or the toilet, air that is trapped within the plumbing can leak into the toilet when it is flushed. This is particularly common in the event that your main drain is blocked too.

Every time water is being flushed down drains, it is required to force any air inside the pipe to the side. When the wax seal, as well as vents, functions well, the air is able to flow through the pipe before exiting through the vents without difficulty. If one or both components are in disrepair, the air has nowhere else to go other than out through the base of the toilet.

How do you repair the wax seal?

In the beginning, you'll need to know the degree to which the seal has been damaged to repair the seal made of wax to your toilet. In some cases, sealing using caulk or silicone can be sufficient to make an effective fix in the short term. To properly secure the seal on your toilet, you'll be required to remove the toilet, empty it, and then move the toilet.

• The toilet should be empty. For emptying the toilet, switch off your water source to the toilet, and flush the tank until it's dry. You may also have to make use of a towel or sponge to soak up any water that flushing can't get rid of. There are also those who have had success flushing the toilet in order to make sure the water is completely drained.

• Separate the toilet. A bucket is available to collect any remaining water from the water supply pipe from the tank of the toilet and then remove the hardware from the bolts for mounting that secure your toilet on the ground. Be cautious when completing this task since heavy force could break the flange that anchors the toilet.

• Take the toilet out of the way. Place the toilet in a location that is far enough away from the work area. We recommend putting an object of wood or similar blocks underneath the place where the toilet is to be installed to guard the drain. Make sure the toilet's base is parallel to the floor when moving the toilet in order to prevent any spills from your drain.

• Take off the wax rings. Wearing disposable gloves, take off the wax ring, then clean the area with an emery blade or mineral spirit. Make sure you plug the drain at this point by using an old pillowcase or towel (large enough to ensure that it does not fall into the drain). This is essential to stop sewer gas from getting into the space.

• Once the toilet flange is removed, place the new wax ring tightly into the ring, making certain not to press to the point that it alters the shape of the ring.

Install the toilet, screw on the ground, and connect with the main water line. Give the toilet some flushes to verify that the new wax is in good condition.