It’s something most people don’t consciously notice – until it’s bad.
From freshly brewed coffee to a musty hallway, smell shapes how we feel in a space. Studies show that scent plays a powerful role in memory, mood, and even how long someone stays in a store or how productive they are in the workplace. For businesses, that means smell isn’t just about comfort – it’s about brand perception and performance.
Let’s take a look at how scent impacts your facility and how professional cleaning plays a surprisingly big role in making a good first (and lasting) impression.
The Nose Knows: Why Smell Matters
The human brain links scent directly to the limbic system, which controls emotions and memory. That’s why smells can instantly bring up a feeling – good or bad. For customers and clients, that feeling may influence whether they trust your business, return again, or recommend you to others.
For employees, it can affect everything from focus and energy levels to stress and morale.
When Scent Signals a Problem
Even if your space looks clean, lingering smells can create a negative perception. Common culprits include:
- Dusty HVAC systems and vents
- Stale air from poor circulation
- Restrooms that are “clean” but still hold odor
- Carpets and upholstery that trap scents over time
- Breakrooms or trash areas that don’t get deep-cleaned regularly
These can contribute to what’s sometimes referred to as “sick building syndrome,” where poor indoor air quality leads to discomfort, headaches, or even illness among building occupants.
How NSG Helps Eliminate the Problem at the Source
Professional cleaning does more than wipe down surfaces. At NSG, our janitorial teams are trained to:
- Identify and address odor sources, not just mask them
- Use hospital-grade, low-odor products that clean without creating chemical smells
- Maintain ventilation systems, clean filters, and recommend airflow improvements
- Perform deep cleaning of often-overlooked areas like fabric panels, baseboards, and behind fixtures
We also ensure that high-traffic, high-touch spaces are cleaned frequently enough to prevent the buildup of bacteria that causes lingering smells.
Want to Take It Further? Consider Scent Branding
Some businesses go a step beyond neutral scent to create a custom experience. Hotels, retail stores, and even banks are using subtle, pleasant scents to reinforce their brand and make spaces more inviting.
While scent branding isn’t for everyone, starting with a clean, odor-neutral foundation is a must. That’s where we come in.
Let’s Make a Great First Impression – One Breath at a Time
If your space doesn’t smell fresh, your customers and employees notice – whether they say something or not. Let’s make sure that what they do notice is a clean, safe, and welcoming environment.
Get in touch with NSG today and let’s talk about keeping your facility clean, fresh, and productive from the ground up.
