It’s well documented that a fresh-smelling washroom leaves visitors with a positive impression of cleanliness. It highlights the importance of odour control in any facility; a welcoming scent can reinforce the perception of hygienic and well-maintained surroundings. Numerous surveys have revealed that the cleanliness of workplace bathrooms is closely linked to overall perceptions of standards and is a key driver in shaping how employees view the quality of their working environment.
Maintaining a clean out-of-home space goes beyond visible tidiness; it is equally about creating a pleasant atmosphere. Aircare solutions play a crucial role in achieving this. Research consistently confirms that unpleasant smells remain one of the top causes of complaints in away-from-home facilities, heavily influencing customer satisfaction.
Perpetual concerns for facilities of all sizes include lingering malodours, fragrance consistency, sustainability, ease of maintenance and scent-related allergies. Nose blindness – where individuals become so accustomed to an odour they no longer notice it – presents another challenge, while inconsistent or weak fragrances often fail to mask unwanted smells effectively. Some customers also worry about whether products provide sufficient coverage, while others cite high investment costs as a deterrent.
Identifying locations
Studies reveal that certain industries and spaces experience odour complaints more frequently, originating from sources such as cigarette smoke or ammonia in public washrooms. The following highlights common problem areas in office environments:
Bathrooms are the obvious place to start – brainstorm with facilities managers about other ‘back of house’ areas that may contribute to negative impressions for a wide range of building occupants.
Decision drivers
When consulting with facilities managers, seek to understand the broader goals they want to achieve within their premises, whether as a part of an employee brand promise or their core values. Key phrases to listen for include:
- Sustainability goals: guide customers towards aircare products with eco-credentials such as Vectair’s V-Air Solid Evolution.
- Return-to-office or employee experience: create a positive in-office experience harmonising fragrance across multiple product platforms.
- Innovation: Look to patented or unique technologies such as precision-dosing technology or urinal screens with enzyme blocks that help keep drains clean.
Selecting the right product and fragrance
Based on the insights gathered during the discovery process with a customer, it’s time to choose the most appropriate product type and fragrance for the space. Typically, aircare programmes offer both passive and active solutions. Passive products are battery-free options which release fragrance over a specific period. Active products disperse fragrance at a set frequency. Selection depends on factors such as:
- Airflow: passive products are ideal for spaces with good air circulation; active solutions work better where airflow is limited.
- Room size: smaller spaces benefit from passive systems, while active ones suit larger areas.
- Temperature: active devices perform better in cooler environments (below 15°C).
Fragrance selection can be a highly personal choice and preferences vary. Understanding the desired intensity is very important. For a soft, subtle scent, White Tea & Thyme is an excellent choice. For high-traffic areas where a stronger fragrance is required, Citrus Mango is robust and helps maintain a fresh atmosphere between cleanings.
Demonstrating value
One of the most frequent objections to aircare systems is assumed cost. However, when compared to the benefits, the investment is small. For low daily cost, a facility can eliminate unpleasant smells and significantly enhance its reputation. Tools such as cost-per-day calculators are invaluable in demonstrating the impact aircare programmes offer.
Running a one-month trial can be a persuasive approach for dealers. Once customers experience a product firsthand, they see (and smell) the difference and value that reliable aircare provides.
Rather than focusing solely on product features, concentrate on how each system tackles problems such as lingering malodour and inconsistent fragrance delivery – and how it helps protect an organisation’s brand image. Bad smells in restaurants, hotels and offices can drive customers away, lower employee morale and lead to negative reviews. Where possible, bundle aircare with complementary hygiene products (such as hand dryers and waste bins) to present a complete washroom solution.
What makes an effective aircare product?
A good aircare product is far more than just a basic fragrance dispenser; it is a tool for improving user experience and enhancing public perception. Consistent fragrance is essential, ensuring that odours do not hang around. Sustainability is increasingly important, with recyclable materials and non-hazardous refills addressing environmental regulations and the growing demand for eco-conscious products.
Scent greatly influences perceived cleanliness. Even the most visually spotless bathroom can feel unclean if it smells unpleasant, while a fresh fragrance reassures visitors that the space is properly maintained. In HoReCa, offices and other industries, this psychological link makes reliable and efficient aircare indispensable.
Investing in high-quality products is more than masking unpleasant smells; it is about cultivating an environment that reflects professionalism, care and attention to detail. Furthermore, offering product variety helps address coverage concerns, allergies and other client-specific challenges.
A growing market
As the population increases and public spaces grow, so does the need for effective odour management. Every sector – including budget hotels, gyms and retail spaces – is keen to create a clean and inviting environment. Often, a fresh, pleasant scent can significantly boost customer satisfaction and employee wellness.
By incorporating aircare solutions into a product portfolio, dealers can tap into this expanding market, add tangible value to their offerings and build relationships with clients. Selling them successfully involves understanding client pain points – persistent odours, sustainability considerations, coverage issues and cost objections – and matching these needs to the appropriate products.
By focusing on the benefits of improved odour control and demonstrating a clear ROI, dealers can position aircare as a vital component of any comprehensive hygiene strategy. This approach not only drives sales but also helps businesses maintain spaces that visitors and employees find inviting and comfortable.
Chris Wakefield is Managing Director of Vectair (UK & EMEA)
