Busting the Biggest Myths About Odour Control

Let's be honest, odour control isn't the most glamorous topic. But if you've ever had to field neighbour complaints, deal with ongoing odour issues in the workplace, or explain to management why the facility's air quality has become a concern, you know it matters.

Unfortunately, odour control is also one of those areas filled with half-truths and myths. So today, we're setting the record straight.

Myth 1: If it smells better, the problem's fixed.

We get it, spraying a nice fragrance feels like the quickest fix. But masking odours doesn't solve the problem, it just makes it harder to deal with.

Real odour control means neutralising the source of the smell, usually airborne volatile organic compounds (VOCs) or sulphides like hydrogen sulphide (H₂S), along with a variety of other compounds. That means eliminating the odour, not covering it up or layering on lavender.

Myth 2: Odours are only a summer problem.

It's true that heat can amplify smells, but cooler months bring their own challenges. In winter, temperature inversions can trap odorous air close to the ground, allowing it to drift across entire neighbourhoods.

So, if you're thinking of pressing pause on odour control during winter, you might want to think again. Consistent, year-round treatment is key to avoiding spikes in complaints and compliance risks.

Myth 3: If I can't smell it, it's not there.

Smell fatigue is real. The human nose adapts quickly to persistent odours, meaning your team might stop noticing them even if visitors or nearby residents are overwhelmed.

Many VOCs can still be present at minimal levels. H₂S, for example, is detectable by the human nose at concentrations as low as 1 ppm. Even if it's not obvious to on-site staff, nearby residents may still notice it. And at higher concentrations, H₂S and other compounds such as ammonia can be dangerous and even fatal.

That's why relying on scent alone is not a reliable safety or compliance strategy.

Myth 4: Complaints are just part of the job

They don't have to be. If you're in waste management, recycling, water treatment, or food processing, odours might come with the territory, but regular complaints, EPA notices, or staff discomfort don't have to.

Modern odour systems like OdourPro VapourGard can eliminate up to 90 to 100% of VOC-based odours, including H₂S, often with nothing more than a tank, diffuser pipe, and smart chemistry.

Myth 5: Odour isn't a compliance issue.

It absolutely can be. Environmental authorities across Australia take odour seriously, and breaches can lead to fines, stop-work orders, or restrictions on site operations.

Even if you're not under active investigation, odour mismanagement can impact WHS compliance, community trust, and staff morale.

So, What Actually Works?

The key is using a solution that treats odours in the same phase and direction as they travel: vapour.

CleanaWater's VapourGard system uses QuikAir® 0900V, or other variants from the QuikAir range, depending on your site's odour profile. These vapour-phase neutralisers chemically react with VOCs, sulphides like H₂S, and a range of other odorous compounds to break them down at the source, not just cover them up.

Because the vapour travels through the air like odour molecules do, it reaches the same places — across perimeters, around corners, and over large open sites.

No mist. No clogging. No water. Just clean air.

Need a Better Solution? Let's Talk.

If you're tired of fighting odours with air fresheners, surface sprays, or crossed fingers, it might be time to upgrade. Contact CleanaWater on 1800 353 788 for advice or a site-specific OdourPro VapourGard solution tailored to your facility.