A survey found that “2 out of 3 people say they avoid places with unpleasant smells” and “71% of consumers say they perceive odour as a sign of improper cleaning”.
What is more important to all is the fact that a Foul Smelling Washroom is not only Unpleasant – The gases which cause the foul odour are also toxic & have a direct bearing on your health.
For the modern workplace – A Foul smelling washroom will most certainly leave a negative impression& Opinions regarding the Organization.
Nobody likes a smelly washroom, but unfortunately odours can and do regularly occur. In a public washroom or a shared office washroom, the lavatory is used more frequently and the chances of odours occurring are amplified.
Washroom odour is a periodic problem in most facilities for a number of reasons. Keeping washrooms clean and smelling good all time continues to remain on top of the maintenance list of all Facility Managers..

Causes of Odour

• Urine - The most common source of washroom odour is urine. Bacteria utilises urine as a food source and as urine changes for acid to alkaline it attracts more moisture which creates a good environment for bacterial growth. Ad bacteria multiplies, so does the intensity of odour

• Leaking or Blocked Pipes – Malodours are caused by buildup of uric acid and salts which can furthermore result in blocked pipes.Leaking pipes can also attract bacteria and lead to washroom odour.

• Damp Floors – When moisture gathers, it’s the perfect place for bacteria to thrive and for mould to grow. Bacteria and mould absorbed into the floor are the primary reason for grout odour.

• Improper Cleaning - Improper cleaning and damp cleaning supplies such as mops, brushes etc.is the biggest culprit in the spread of bacteria to various surfaces, leading to unpleasant smells.

• Trashcans - Feminine products, wet wipes and other waste articles thrown into trashcans can also be a possible reason for smelly washroom.

How to keep Washrooms Odour Free?

The best way to the avoid odours is to keep your washroom as clean as possible. The best way to do so is to adopt few approaches as mentioned below-

• Maintain Good Ventilation - All washrooms should be properly ventilated. Maintaining good ventilation involves two main factors: having a working vent fan and keeping the door open when the washroom is not in use.
• Clean Regularly –
  • Regularly cleaning washroom facilities to prevent odours coming from the build-up of germs and bacteria that can be found in urinals/lavatories, washbasins, dispensers, etc.(Check out our Odour Management Solutions)
  • Use a good disinfectant while cleaning all surfaces.
  • Empty trash cans at regular intervals even if they are not full.
• Place an Air Freshener - Install a professional and durable air freshener that emits an odour- neutralising fragrance to continually dispel foul smells.(Check out our Scenting Solutions)

As you can see from the above, a holistic approach needs to be taken when it comes to preventing bad smelling washrooms.

Hygienetech India offers professional hygiene services that can help you combat malodours and bacteria in the washroom. Contact us for more information.