ISSA

Recent record-high temperatures across the United States have left people searching for activities to help them beat the heat. However, higher temperatures can mean more than just oppressive heat and humidity; they can also create less than pleasant odors. To help facility managers combat odors before they become a problem, let’s examine the top sources of offensive summer scents.

“Regardless of the facility type, a bad scent can displease guests and be a source of complaints during the summer,” said John Engel, senior marketing manager for Cintas Facility Services. “By understanding the causes of these odors and implementing prevention techniques, many can be easily eliminated.”

Ranked from most to least offensive, the worst summer scents are:

1. Trash. Dumpsters are a haven for odors, but this can be a particular issue in the summer months. Keep doors closed to prevent the smell of garbage from creeping into the facility and ensure dumpsters are regularly cleaned to limit odors.
2. Restrooms. As the summer months bring many families to parks, pools, and recreation facilities, restroom odors can be heightened due to increased traffic. Limit odors by implementing a restroom maintenance program to ensure surfaces are regularly deep cleaned, protected, and maintained. Time-release air fresheners also can help neutralize odors with pleasant fragrances.
3. Dirty towels. Towels used to clean up spills, restroom surfaces, and counters absorb a variety of liquids and solid substances that can generate odors over time. Avoid letting dirty towels sit for extended periods of time by implementing a regular laundry program.
4. Grout lines. In facilities with tiled surfaces, debris and contaminants can collect quickly causing a build-up in grout lines—and subsequent scents. Deep clean grout lines regularly to remove buildup and prevent bad odors.
5. Mops. Dirty mops not only can breed harmful bacteria, they are also a source of rancid odors that can spread beyond the supply closet. Regularly launder mops to keep them smelling fresh—and to keep floors clean and safe.
6. Air conditioning units. Over time, coils and filters in air conditioning units can become dirty and circulate bad odors throughout a building. Regular deep cleaning keeps pans, coils, and unit parts free of dirt and bacteria and can eliminate the air conditioner as a potential odor source.
7. Mold. Summer thunderstorms and hurricanes often can result in flooding and leaking in various areas of a facility. Following a flood, it is important to remove water as quickly as possible. This limits the potential for mold growth and potential malodor.
8. Carpet. Carpeting in entryways or other high traffic areas can provide an optimal environment for the development of mildew in humid environments if not regularly deep cleaned. Mildew can also develop when carpets are deep cleaned but not thoroughly dried. Reduce the potential for odors and downtime with an ongoing deep cleaning system that uses fast-drying techniques.

“Facility cleanliness is a vital component of overall customer satisfaction,” said Engel. “By proactively establishing cleaning programs and techniques, facilities can remain productive throughout the year.”