Finding the Right Cleaning Scents

Choosing your fragrances for cleaning products in your business may sound like no big deal, but they can really add a lot to the customer experience when used strategically. There are a few things to keep in mind to determine which may be the best fit for you. Most importantly, first consider any sensitivities or allergies of employees who may come into contact with these products on a daily basis. Fragrance allergies aren’t particularly common, but they are a reality for some people and it’s important to make sure your products aren’t causing a reaction or irritation. Once you’ve confirmed there aren’t any concerns, you’ll want to think about the ambiance you’re hoping to create for your clients or customers.

When we enter new spaces, we use all our senses to form an impression of that space – visually, a doctor’s office may use bright whites to create a feeling of cleanliness and sterility, whereas an antique shop may use warm woods and rich accents to create a homey environment. Similarly, your scents should work with your vision for your business to enhance your desired ambiance. Here are a few common scents, and tips for when you could use each of them.

Citrus

Many cleaning products default to citrusy fragrances, such as lemon or orange. For this reason, we actually tend to associate them with cleanliness even when they may not be related. For example, a lemon scented candle won’t have any impact on cleanliness, but it will probably trigger that association all the same. If you want people to think ‘clean’ when they enter your business, citrus smells are a classic choice.

Floral

Floral scents give an impression of freshness and lightness. Like citrus scents, they create a refreshing ambiance that feels open and crisp. Lavender is a popular fragrance used for this purpose, though rose can also be used for slightly warmer undertones. Floral scents are probably among the more versatile options, and are really an excellent choice for many businesses.

Cinnamon and spices

Cinnamon or other heavily spiced scents are, in many ways, the opposite of floral scents. They are heavy and deep, and give an impression of coziness and warmth. If you want people to enter your business and think of it as a homey, comforting environment, then spiced scents are a great element to incorporate into their sensory experience.

Fresh

You can actually find scents marked as fresh, or linen, or similar scents. Unlike floral, they won’t give as much as an impression of ‘open window’ freshness, but instead it will be more like a ‘laundry just finished’ freshness. This scent would work particularly well in department stores, as well as anywhere you want to feel clean without the outdoorsy element.

No matter which fragrance you ultimately choose, those who visit will surely notice something in the air that creates a more pleasant atmosphere and welcoming environment – and a well crafted ambiance mixed with excellent customer service equals a business that’s always enjoyable to work with.