There have been questions about no-water urinals in the past such as odor issues.  However, we now know that with proper maintenance, these urinals contribute to a pleasant, odor-free restroom experience. This is due to our improved understanding of no-water urinal odors and our ability to address them effectively.

Here's four ways to keep your no-water urinals fresh, clean, and odor free:

1). Add Sealing Liquid or Replace the Cartridge

Most waterless urinals have a cartridge, a.k.a a trap, at the bottom of the urinal, pictured above. Its purpose is twofold:

1. Collect urine and send it down to the sewer line.

2. Prevent sewer odors from being released into the restroom through the sealing liquid inside the cartridge.

When the trap operates correctly, it helps ensure restrooms are odor-free. However, the sealing liquid and cartridges must be replaced based on how frequently the urinal is used. With some brands, the cartridges need to be replaced every two months. However, urinals using the EcoTrap® cartridge typically only need to be replaced every six months.

Regardless of the type of no-water urinal, if you notice urinal odors, check if the sealing liquid or cartridge needs to be replaced. If so, it’s a quick and easy procedure.

2). Cleaning the Urinal

Another key reason for no-water urinal odor problems, as with flush urinals, is improper cleaning. Before exploring this further, here's 2 things you should not do:

• Never pour water down a waterless urinal. It is not needed. This can cause clogs in the cartridge as the urine may mix with the water and form calcium crystals.

• The interior of the urinal does not need to be scrubbed, as no water deposits are present.

Instead, the most effective way to clean a waterless urinal is to use NviroClean - specially made to clean waterless and conventional urinals - or an all-purpose cleaning solution or disinfectant.

Spray the entire urinal first, then wait a couple of minutes. This is called dwell time, a technique that allows the cleaning solution to work effectively. Then wipe the urinal clean, preferably with a microfiber cleaning cloth.

3). Clean Urinal Surroundings

As any custodial worker will attest, men do not always have the best aim.  By the end of a business day, urine droplets collect on floors, partitions, walls, and behind the urinal.  As it collects, it releases odors.

To address this, cleaning the surrounding area of any urinal is essential during each cleaning visit.  An all-purpose cleaner is usually all that is necessary.  Also, be sure to mop around the urinal regularly using a clean mop.

Further, if a mat is installed under the urinal, be sure it is changed and cleaned regularly. This applies to no-water and water-using urinals. Have a professional linen service come in on a regular basis to collect the mats and replace them with fresh ones.

4). Check for Clogs 

Clogs in the piping can lead to odor problems. If you suspect a clog, use an auger to clear the pipe. If this resolves the issue, you're all set. However, if the problem persists, it may be time to call a plumber.

There you have it. 

Custodial workers often say cleaning and maintaining a waterless urinal is easier than cleaning a flush urinal. Plus, it can be safer. There is less splatter, and there is no concern that the cleaning solution will release fumes when mixed with urine.

That's why, when it comes to cleaning, we suggest staying healthy - the waterless way.