The Nose Knows
It may be an unfair judgment, but foul odors can give the wrong impression of your business or organization. It doesn’t take long for someone to make a judgment call based on a whiff that assaults the senses. In fact, according to survey results, a bad smell would turn 85% of people away from a restaurant.
There are a variety of possible sources for this issue and today we will look at some of the most common problem areas and offer solutions. As a general rule, you should focus on:
- Locating the source of the smell
- Eliminating the problem
- Frequent cleaning and maintaining
One of the worst offenders is the bathroom. We previously highlighted bathroom smells and how to fight them in this article. The very purpose of the washroom dictates it requires diligent effort to keep it clean and the odors under control. Floor drains, grout, urinals and toilets should be at the top of the list to keep clean and smelling fresh.
However, there are other areas to watch out for as well. Carpets can take on a funky smell if they are not properly cleaned. Since floors are the largest surface area to maintain and carpets often make up a large percentage of that, it may be something to bear in mind.
Consider a carpet to be a large filter. It captures everything from food crumbs, soil, dust and even human waste. If these contaminants collect in the carpet fibers or backing material, they can start to smell.
Carpets are also like a sponge, soaking up moisture from spills, humidity, and snow/slush/rain tracked in from the outdoors. Mold can quickly develop from wet carpets and that creates an offending scent.
Removing the odor and the cause can be tricky but persistence and diligence will pay off. We recommend Betco’s Fiberpro Enzyme Deodorizer. It can be used on all types of carpet, upholstery and rugs. With its liquid bacteria it produces enzymes, which eliminate the source of the odor. It will continue to produce enzymes until the problem is eliminated.
Waste receptacles can also be a troublesome area. Its job is to collect garbage, so it will naturally start to smell if not properly maintained. Waste cans should be emptied at least once per day, possibly more often depending on the volume of traffic. The receptacle should be cleaned with disinfectant on a regular basis to combat the build up of dirt and grime. If the garbage cans are collecting any wet materials, it is important to allow the containers to dry out to prevent smells from developing.
Food can be a huge source of bad smells, so it makes sense that the kitchen and cafeteria are areas to keep an eye on. Drains can acquire a build up of fats, oils and grease, which creates a slime on the inside of the drain. When water rushes past this film, stinky molecules can dislodge and cause a smell.
We recommend Betco’s Bioactive Solutions PUSH. This non-corrosive, non-flammable, non-acid and non-caustic solution contains enzyme-producing bacteria that will digest organic waste like complex proteins, fats, greases and odors.
Cafeterias and breakrooms can become unsightly and quite stinky if they are not properly cared for. Greasy food is consumed by greasy hands which leave bits of food, crumbs and residue behind. This can be a sticky situation for cleaners but having a proper plan of attack can keep tables, food lines and floors in great shape.
Betco’s BioActive Solution for surfaces and floors are good options for food services areas. The unique formula contains detergents, emulsifiers and enzymes that digest organic waste and leave surfaces clean and ready for the next diners.
These are some of the main culprits when it comes to offending odors, but with these tips and the right tools, you can keep your building smelling great.
If you have a problem area you would like advice about, reach out to our Clean Team at Checkers. We are your Clean Resource and will help you find the right solution for your situation.
