Foul odors from trash can damage your business’s reputation and leave a lasting negative impression on customers. Trash is a breeding ground for bacteria, pests, and unpleasant odors, and needs to be managed. Otherwise, it becomes not just a sign of unprofessionalism but a severe health hazard.
Understanding how odors accumulate in trash chutes and how to stop them is crucial to meeting cleanliness and safety standards.
Why Do Trash Chutes Smell?
Everything that goes in the trash will decompose over time. When organic materials break down, chemicals are released that cause pungent malodors. Sometimes, trash bags break, spilling out smelly contents across the trash collection area. This issue is especially problematic during the summer months when warmer temperatures accelerate the rotting process.
The Solution to a Smelly Trash Chute
The most effective way to eliminate trash chute odors is by using a spray bio-enzymatic odor remover. This commercial cleaning product uses non-pathogenic bacteria to digest malodors and waste.
Unlike other odor removers, such as air fresheners, bio-enzymatic odor removers do more than just mask odors; they remove them. Plus, the bacteria in bio-enzymatic products do not pose health risks.
The Benefits of Bio-Enzymatic Odor Removers
Bio-enzymatic odor removers offer many benefits, including:
- Safety: They are often safer for both the environment and human health.
- Penetration: The micro-organisms can penetrate into very small cracks and crevices.
- Effectiveness: They can eliminate soils and malodors that traditional chemicals often cannot remove.
- Longevity: They can keep working for up to 80 hours after application.
- Health Benefits: The non-pathogenic “good” bacteria can help displace pathogenic (disease-causing) bacteria.
- Versatility: They can get into small cracks and crevices and eliminate soils and malodors that are traditionally hard to remove.
How Do Bio-Enzymatic Odor Removers Work?
Bio-enzymatic odor removers are designed to break down and loosen built-up debris and grime. They use “good” bacteria to eliminate odors at the source.
The bacteria produce enzymes that break down certain waste molecules into smaller pieces, which then become food for the bacteria. After consuming the waste, the bacteria break the molecules into two compounds: carbon dioxide and water. The bacteria multiply and continue to consume the waste until the supply diminishes, decreasing the bacteria population. When the food source is fully consumed, the bacteria essentially die off.
How to Get Rid of Trash Chute Odors
Before you start tackling trash chute odors, gather the necessary supplies:
Cleaning Supplies:
- Bio-enzymatic odor remover (e.g., Diversey Suma Dumpster Fresh or Victoria Bay Chute & Dumpster Odor Neutralizer)
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
- Safety Glasses
- Gloves
- Face Mask
Equipment:
- Water Hose or Spray System
- Bio-Enzymatic Spray
Step-by-Step Guide to Using a Bio-Enzymatic Odor Remover
Step 1: Prepare the Area
Wear appropriate PPE, such as gloves, goggles, and a mask, while handling trash to protect yourself from harmful substances and bacteria.
Use a broom to remove any loose debris before cleaning your trash chute.
Remove any objects or items that may obstruct the cleaning process.
Turn off any ventilation systems to prevent dust and debris from spreading.
Step 2: Set the Dilution
Ensure your bio-enzymatic spray is properly diluted before applying it. Depending on the product, it might automatically dilute to the correct concentration.
Step 3: Spray the Trash Chute
Attach the applicator bottle to the water hose and turn the knob to the “ON” position.
Apply the product to the trash chute and surrounding area, coating the entire chute evenly.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. No scrubbing is required after applying the product.
Step 4: Let the Solution Sit
Allow the odor remover to penetrate and break down the debris and grime in the chute by letting it sit for the recommended time on the product label.
Step 5: Reapply as Needed
If one coat of spray doesn’t eliminate the odors, reapply for the best results. Repeat steps 3 and 4 as necessary.
Step 6: Inspect the Trash Chute
After cleaning the trash chute, inspect it for any damage or areas that may need additional attention. This allows you to identify potential problems before they arise.
To regularly keep odors under control, apply the product any time the trash chute is emptied.
Final Thoughts
Odor control in a trash chute is critical to maintaining your facility’s image and keeping your customers healthy and happy. Eliminating odors at the source with a long-term solution is the best way to achieve optimal results. A bio-enzymatic odor remover will do the trick.
Remember to always follow product label instructions and use proper PPE to protect yourself while cleaning a trash chute. If you’re interested in learning more about tackling foul odors in your facility’s trash chute, check out the Imperial Dade’s Expert Insights Center for additional resources. We also sell a wide variety of janitorial and cleaning supplies.
If you need help finding the best commercial odor control products for your trash chute, let an Imperial Dade Specialist assist you. Contact us today for expert advice and support in maintaining a clean and odor-free facility.