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Updated on April 24, 2025
Clearing the Air: How to Effectively Control Odours in Commercial and Public Washrooms
No one wants to walk into a washroom and be greeted by an unpleasant odour. Yet in high-traffic facilities (from offices and airports to stadiums and schools), keeping washrooms fresh and welcoming can feel like an uphill battle. The truth is, bad smells aren’t just an annoyance; they impact how people perceive the cleanliness and quality of your facility. They negatively impact your brand. That’s why odour control is about more than just fragrance — it’s about targeting the sources and stopping smells before they start.
The Real Culprits Behind Washroom Odours
Odours in commercial washrooms are typically caused by a few persistent sources:
- Urinals and toilet bowls, where uric acid buildup and bacteria thrive.
- Floor and sink drains, which can trap organic matter and allow biofilm to develop.
- Menstrual waste, when not disposed of properly or left exposed.
- Poor ventilation, which allows odours and airborne pathogens to linger in the air.
These issues are amplified in busy facilities, especially when cleaning schedules can’t keep pace with usage. But the good news? There are smart, science-backed ways to address each of these problems.
6 Solutions to Neutralize Odours, and the Bacteria Behind Them
At Citron Hygiene, we believe that a clean-smelling washroom starts with a hygienic, well-maintained one. Here are six innovations that help eliminate odours at the source, not just mask them.
1. EcoClean Enzyme Treatment
Designed for urinals and toilet bowls, EcoClean releases powerful enzymes with every flush to prevent the buildup of uric scale — the #1 cause of persistent restroom odour. It helps eliminate bacteria where it thrives, keeping fixtures fresh and reducing the need for harsh chemicals or reactive cleaning.
2. Covered Menstrual Hygiene Disposal with Odour Control
Open waste bins in washroom stalls are one of the most overlooked sources of washroom odour. Our touch-free, covered menstrual waste bins come with Actiwipe (in Canada) or EcoCard (in the U.S.) — proprietary all-natural vapour treatments that neutralize odour-causing bacteria right at the source.
3. EcoAire No-VOC Air Care
Fragrancing doesn’t need to be overwhelming or full of harmful chemicals. EcoAire uses a gentle, no-VOC fragrance delivery system to lightly scent the air without contributing to indoor air pollution, making it ideal for schools, healthcare settings, and workplaces alike.
4. SaniZone Pathogen Elimination
Odours are often a byproduct of bacteria and airborne pathogens. SaniZone uses advanced technology to kill germs in the air and on surfaces, reducing the microbial load that can contribute to foul smells.
5. Pebble+ Hand Dryer with Air Purification
More than a dryer, Pebble+ is equipped with both a high-efficiency particulate filter and UV light purification — cleaning the air every time it’s in use, and even when it’s not. It’s a double-duty solution for both hand hygiene and air quality.
6. Improved Airflow and Ventilation
While not a product, this is an essential part of any odour control strategy. Ensuring your washroom has adequate airflow — and complementing it with air care technologies — prevents the buildup of stale, odorous air.
Final Thoughts: A Better Washroom Experience, For Everyone
Odour control in commercial and public washrooms isn’t just about keeping things pleasant — it’s about demonstrating care for everyone who uses your facility. By addressing the root causes of malodour with proactive hygiene solutions, you can create a space that feels safe, clean, and dignified.
Whether you’re managing a corporate office, a retail plaza, or a stadium that sees thousands of visitors a day, Citron Hygiene can help you deliver an elevated washroom experience that people remember — for all the right reasons.
Let’s make malodours a thing of the past. Get in touch to learn more about our full suite of air care and hygiene solutions.
