Using Scented Urinal Screens

A reader writes: “Our customer expects us to provide scented urinal screens to capture gum and debris. They also want the scented type to make the room smell ‘fresher’. Any thoughts?”

First of all, the customer came up with this requirement after the contract specifications were accepted. I suggest you develop a cost for providing the screens with options as to the lowest price and the more deluxe, scented type. Although this is not a major cost, they really should have specified their use or be willing to modify the contract to include this cost.

Scented urinal screens and blocks were out of favor for a while due to environmental concerns but manufacturers have developed chemicals and fragrancies that are more acceptable. They can unnecessarily add to poor IAQ (Indoor Air Quality) for people who are sensitive to some fragrances. Make sure that you are using acceptable products that do not harm the environment yet satisfy the customer. My own philosophy is that a rest room does not have to smell like roses; rather it simply should NOT smell at all. I am uncomfortable with too much fragrance which can hide odors and possible cleaning deficiencies. I know of one company that has a supervisor go through each rest room in the morning and sprays a nice fragrance in the trash cans, sanitary napkin boxes, etc. so that everything smells fresh when the customer arrives. So long as this is not covering up a malodor that needs to be dealt with, I commend their initiative on generating a great first impression for users.

As to scented urinal blocks/cakes, they again should only be used if they are considered “green formulated” since they dissolve and add to the waste disposal chemicals already in the system. We need to do all we can to minimize what goes down the drain since it eventually ends up downstream and back into the water table.

Remember the Law of Cause and Effect when utilizing scents and all chemicals.

Your comments and questions are important. I hope to hear from you soon. Until then, keep it clean…..

Mickey Crowe has been involved in the industry for over 35 years. He is a trainer, speaker and consultant. You can reach Mickey at 678-314-2171 or CTCG50@comcast.net.