5 Reasons Why Your Business’s Toilets Smell

Maintaining a fresh and pleasant environment is crucial in a commercial setting, as unpleasant odours from the washroom can quickly undermine your cleanliness and professionalism.

In fact, according to a survey by Bradley Corporation, 86% of adults in the United States believe that the condition of a restroom reflects the overall cleanliness and quality of a business.

So, why do toilets smell? What seems like an obvious question is actually more of a complex discussion that meets the eye (or nose). A properly functioning, regularly cleaned washroom shouldn’t ever be odorous. So, here are 5 reasons why this isn’t always the case.

1. Lingering Urine Odour

Urine is a major culprit behind unpleasant smells in washrooms. It contains urea, which breaks down into ammonia and releases strong odours over time. Regular cleaning with proper bathroom cleaning methods is crucial. Furthermore, encouraging staff to practice good hygiene, such as flushing after each use and keeping the toilet lid closed, will massively reduce urine odours.

2. Inadequate Ventilation

Insufficient ventilation in commercial washrooms can lead to lingering odours. Stale air without proper circulation allows unpleasant smells to accumulate and cling to surfaces. Installing effective ventilation systems like extractor fans or air purifiers to combat this issue. These systems remove stale air and introduce fresh air, and when combined with air fresheners they ensure a pleasant washroom environment.

3. Urinal Pipework Blockages

Blockages in urinal pipework cause persistent and unpleasant odours. Accumulated debris, sediment, and uric acid crystals create foul smells that permeate the washroom. The Ureco urinal sleeve by HSG is designed to prevent these blockages by capturing debris and preventing uric acid crystal buildup. The sleeve's bio-active enzyme block continuously cleans and deodorises urinals, ensuring a fresh and hygienic environment.

4. Inadequate Cleaning and Maintenance

Inadequate cleaning and maintenance practices contribute to persistent toilet odours in commercial settings. The higher the footfall, the more regular cleaning routines should be. Train cleaning staff to follow proper protocols using effective cleaning agents and tools. Implement a thorough cleaning schedule with frequent checks for blockages, prompt repairs, and regular replacement of urinal sleeves or odour control devices such as the Ureco.

5. Neglected Plumbing Issues

Neglected plumbing issues cause difficult-to-eliminate odours. Leaks, cracks, or damaged seals allow sewer gases to escape, creating pungent malodours in the washroom. Address plumbing issues promptly by consulting professional plumbers. They can identify and rectify faults in the plumbing system, ensuring odours are contained and eliminated effectively.

To conclude, maintaining a fresh and odour-free environment in commercial washrooms is vital for employee and visitor comfort. By addressing common causes of toilet odours like urine and urinal pipework blockages, you can create a pleasant washroom experience.

Implement proper cleaning protocols, invest in air purification systems, and utilise the Ureco urinal sleeve by HSG to improve cleanliness and hygiene in your commercial washrooms. Remember, a fresh-smelling and well-maintained washroom reflects professionalism and care, leaving a positive lasting impression on your business.