As the commercial cleaning industry continues to evolve, what role does scent play in product choice, hygiene results, and sustainability efforts? From the perception of cleanliness to air quality and beyond, cleaners and facility managers need to consider scents r in their overall health and safety strategy.

The perception of cleanliness

Often, people associate a clean environment with the smell of citrus, pine, or bleach, but a clean smell does not mean a clean and sanitized space. 9 out of 10 visitors consider cleanliness to be a crucial factor in deciding whether to visit a business again, so companies want to leave a positive lasting impression.

But when a pleasant scent improves 82 per cent of people’s perception of the restroom’s cleanliness, how can companies leave that lasting impression without using the traditional scents?

• Shift from odour masking to odour neutralizing strategy is one way to stay hygienic while avoiding unnatural or chemical scents.
• For subtle scents, choose essential oils and natural products as fragrance alternatives.
• Focus on removing foul odours at the source with frequent deep cleaning and prompt attention to spills and messes to simplify adding subtle scent to the space.

Sustainability

More and more companies are prioritizing ESG goals as part of their commercial cleaning programs. The growth of sustainability, transparency, and the use of environmentally friendly products means that some of these fragrant products will no longer make the cut. Many of these “natural” ingredients that create that “clean” smell are achieved through synthetic fragrances and VOCs. As the demand for transparency continues to grow, these ingredients will need to be listed on cleaning labels, making them less desirable for companies to use.

VOCs are problematic for indoor air quality, as they can contribute to chronic respiratory issues, asthma, allergic reactions, and headaches. Many cleaning products contain VOCs, including air fresheners, chlorine bleach, dry cleaning chemicals, detergents and dishwashing liquid, rug and upholstery cleaners, furniture polish, and oven cleaners.

How can facility managers and commercial cleaners better protect building occupants?

• Switch to low or no VOC, scent-free cleaning products. Use resources like the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or Green Seal for a list of cleaning products that meet their standards.
• Educate staff and visitors on the effects that scented cleaning products can have on health, IAQ, the environment, and more.
• Stay transparent by posting cleaning schedules, promoting clean products, and publishing the labels from products used, so occupants and visitors can be assured that you are practicing consistent cleaning.

Commercial cleaners and facility managers need to be conscious of the effect that scent has on the environment, air quality, and the health and safety of the building occupants, despite the common misconception that a clean smelling means a clean facility.