<< Return to News

Battling Restroom Odors: Debunking Ice in Urinals

Ever since the invention of the urinal back in 1886, facilities have been battling the unwanted odors that come with them. To combat the odors, businesses have tried many different treatments… some more beneficial than others.  

One of the most used techniques for businesses is to fill the urinal with ice. However, this may add to the odor in restrooms. In this post we discuss why utilizing the power of Bacillus over loading ice into urinals will be your best bet to reducing those odors.  

The Unintended Consequence of Using Ice in Urinals 

The rationale behind the ice method is logical but unknowingly, not directed at the true cause of the odors. The belief is that the odor from restrooms is due, in part, to lack of flushing, so businesses will load in ice. The ice slowly melts, providing a constant flow of water through the urinal. 

While having a consistent water flow can help keep drains running smoothly, the unintended consequence is that ice can often lead to splashing which only intensifies odors. When urine splashes onto porous surfaces, such as tile and grout, it leads to the accumulation of urine and urea. This results in strong ammonia odors. 

The more splashing, the more odors…this is a cycle that can be detrimental to the restroom environment. Luckily, there is a solution to end this cycle.  

Using Bacillus to Treat Restroom Odors 

For facility owners, they must adopt solutions that address the root cause of restroom odors. Chemistry-based cleaners can be good to use but they do not have the ability to get rid of strong odors lurking in porous surfaces.  

Bacillus-based cleaners offer a strategic approach by penetrating deep into surface pores, effectively reducing the presence of odor-causing compounds.   

But how can these microscopic organisms accomplish such a major task? Bacillus cleaners assimilate ammonia in order to obtain nitrogen which they need to support further bacterial growth. This bacterial growth allows Bacillus to persist on tile and grout and continue to work longer than chemistry-based cleaners. The result is odor reduction. 

Empowering Customers with Innovative Hygiene Solutions 

By offering Bacillus-based solutions to your customers, not only are you addressing the surface-level issues, but also providing a solution that targets the core of restroom odors. Together, let’s elevate restroom hygiene standards and provide lasting benefits to the facilities you serve. If you have any questions or need further information, feel free to explore our resources and Connect with us to continue this journey of transformative cleaning solutions. 

Search Insights
Recently Posted Insights

2024 EXPANSION: CONTINUED GROWTH AT MDG

Since the completion of our Oak Creek facility in the fall of 2022, we have steadily grown our capacities and capabilities as a trusted provider of Bacillus-based solutions. We are excited to announce that our growth has given us the opportunity to expand our...

Upcoming Webinar: Creating Quality Microbial Products

Producing high-quality microbial products for industrial, institutional, and consumer applications is essential for our partners. In our upcoming webinar, we will explore the critical aspects of microbial product development and how we ensure quality products for your...

Proven Success Treating Sludge with Biotifx®

If your customers are working in the biological wastewater treatment industry, chances are they’re dealing with the challenges of organic sludge. Sludge, the waste components left over after the wastewater has been treated, is a constant expense for facilities, and...

Sludge Tanks 101: Treating the Waste

Throughout the wastewater treatment process, certain components are left over that get separated from the treated water. This collection of leftovers is called sludge, which is then further treated in tanks. At Microbial Discovery Group (MDG), we have explored the...

Lagoons 101: Identification and Long-Term Treatment Approach

Lagoons and ponds have been used for treating wastewater for over 3,000 years. Today, there are over 8,000 wastewater treatment lagoons operating in the United States. One appeal to using lagoons is that they generally require less energy than other treatment systems...

Proven Success in Wastewater Seasonality

In the world of wastewater treatment, seasonal challenges can disrupt operations and affect the efficiency of treatment plants. As the industry begins to face the difficulties of this year’s spring, MDG emerges as a trusted partner with a track record of proven...

Under The Microscope – Sierra Garcia

At MDG, we succeed by creating an environment to attract, develop, and retain the best and the brightest people who embrace our values. Learn all about Sierra Garcia, our Engagement Coordinator.   What is your role at Microbial Discovery Group (MDG) and when did...

Related News