The overlooked cost of odour perception in healthcare

Clean air is essential to every healthcare environment. Odours are one of the first indicators people notice when entering a room, but they are often a symptom of wider air quality problems. Unpleasant smells suggest that the air is not being refreshed effectively, which can also mean higher levels of airborne bacteria, viruses or volatile compounds.

Even when cleaning standards are high, odours can influence how people experience a healthcare environment, from those receiving care to the visitors and staff who work within it. Confidence in hygiene begins with the air people breathe.

Science rather than scent
Odours develop when volatile organic compounds or airborne microorganisms build up faster than ventilation or cleaning can remove them. Fragrance sprays may temporarily mask these smells, but they do not treat the cause.

Multiple independent laboratory and field tests have confirmed AIRsteril efficacy. HygCen laboratories verified significant reductions in airborne microorganisms in a large room environment, and the Eco-Institut confirmed constant reductions in harmful volatile organic compounds, whilst remaining completely safe for occupied environments.

The silent impact on confidence and reputation
Healthcare facilities depend on trust. People need to feel confident that the environment is clean and safe, whether they are receiving care, visiting family or working within the setting. Persistent odours, even mild ones, can undermine that confidence. That’s why, the Care Quality Commission highlights the importance of maintaining environments that are visibly clean and free from unpleasant odours.

Odour control as part of hygiene management
AIRsteril systems work continuously to purify the air and remove odours at their source. Each unit uses ultraviolet light and a catalytic process to eliminate odours, break down volatile compounds and reduce airborne microorganisms.

By treating both the cause of odour and the wider microbial load, AIRsteril supports overall hygiene standards and enhances the effectiveness of daily cleaning routines. The result is cleaner, fresher air throughout wards, waiting areas, treatment rooms and washrooms.