Love the smell of fresh flowers in a room? Now imagine walking into your office every morning and being greeted by that same clean, subtle freshness. Not overpowering. Not chemical. Just genuinely fresh.
A workplace that smells clean can shape how employees feel, how clients perceive your business, and how productive the day ahead becomes. While most cleaning conversations focus on what you can see (shiny floors, dust-free desks, spotless windows) what you smell is just as important.
Because a truly clean office isn’t just about appearances. It’s about the experience.
Clean Isn't Just Visual, It's Sensory
Many cleaning services focus heavily on visual results, often relying on strong-smelling chemicals to signal “clean.” The problem? That sharp bleach or chemical scent can have the opposite effect on the people who work there every day.
Offices left smelling harsh or synthetic can trigger headaches, dizziness, nausea, or general discomfort—particularly for people sensitive to strong odours. Over time, this can affect concentration, mood, and overall wellbeing.
A space that looks clean but smells uncomfortable isn’t actually supporting the people inside it.
How Scent Impacts Productivity and Well-Being
It might sound surprising, but science backs the connection between pleasant scents and workplace performance. The link between scent and performance isn’t just a nice idea, it’s supported by research. Studies, including work by Zoladz and Raudenbush (2005), have shown that certain natural scents can positively influence cognitive function, mood, and energy levels.
Different scents support different outcomes:
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Cinnamon and peppermint have been linked to improved alertness, memory, and reaction time. People exposed to these scents often report feeling more energised and focused.
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Citrus scents, such as lemon and orange, are associated with improved concentration and reduced stress, making them ideal for busy or high-pressure environments.
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Lavender and rosemary can help create a calmer atmosphere, reducing anxiety and supporting collaboration, perfect for meeting rooms and shared spaces.
When used thoughtfully, scent becomes part of a healthier, more productive workplace environment rather than a distraction.
The Problem with Strong Chemical Odours
Traditional cleaning products often rely on heavy fragrances or harsh chemicals. While some people associate these smells with cleanliness, they can cause real issues in modern workplaces.
Common problems include:
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Increased headaches or allergic reactions
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Reduced focus and comfort
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A less welcoming environment for visitors and clients
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Lingering odours that hang in the air long after cleaning is done
In today’s offices,where wellbeing, inclusion, and sustainability matter more than ever, these side effects simply aren’t worth it.
Why Odour Plays a Bigger Role Than You Realise
A fresh-smelling office sends subtle but powerful signals.
It communicates professionalism and attention to detail. It makes employees feel more comfortable and valued. And it creates a positive first impression for clients the moment they step inside.
Smell is one of the strongest memory triggers. When your office smells clean, calm, and inviting, people associate those feelings with your brand.
How to Keep Your Office Smelling Fresh
Creating a clean-smelling office doesn’t mean masking odours with perfume-like sprays. It starts with smart cleaning choices and consistency.
Choose gentle, low-odour cleaning products
Look for non-toxic, biodegradable products that clean effectively without leaving behind heavy chemical smells. These are better for people, air quality, and the environment.
Use scent intentionally
If you introduce fragrance, keep it subtle and natural. Light citrus, herbal, or mint-based scents work well without overwhelming shared spaces.
Maintain good airflow
Proper ventilation prevents odours from lingering. Regular HVAC maintenance and fresh air circulation make a noticeable difference.
Schedule regular deep cleaning
Carpets, upholstery, bins, and kitchens are common sources of trapped odours. Deep cleaning removes the problem at the source instead of covering it up.
Work with a cleaning partner who understands your space
A customised cleaning plan ensures your office smells as clean as it looks - every day, not just after a once-off service.
Why Cleancorp Offices Smell So Good (Yes, Really)
At Cleancorp, we believe cleaning should improve how a workplace feels, not just how it looks. That includes the air your team breathes every day.
Our approach focuses on:
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Eco-friendly, low-odour cleaning products that are tough on dirt but gentle on people
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Attention to detail, including odour-neutralising techniques rather than heavy fragrances
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Customised cleaning plans that reflect how your office actually operates
We don’t believe in overpowering scents or harsh chemical smells. Instead, we aim for a clean, neutral, fresh environment that supports comfort, focus, and wellbeing.
FAQs on Office Cleaning and Workplace Scents
1. Why does my office smell strong after cleaning?
Strong smells after cleaning usually come from traditional chemical-based products that rely on heavy fragrances or harsh ingredients. While these products may signal “clean” to some, they can cause discomfort and negatively affect air quality.
2. Can cleaning products affect health and productivity?
Yes. Strong chemical odours can trigger headaches, dizziness, or allergies in some people, which can reduce comfort and focus at work. Using low-odour, eco-friendly products helps create a healthier environment that supports productivity.
3. What scents are best for office environments?
Light, natural scents such as citrus, mint, or herbal notes are generally best for offices. These scents can help boost alertness and concentration without being overpowering or distracting in shared spaces.
4. How can we keep our office smelling fresh without using air freshners?
Regular deep cleaning, good ventilation, and the use of gentle, low-odour cleaning products help eliminate odours at the source. This approach creates a consistently fresh-smelling office without masking smells with artificial fragrances.
5. Does Cleancorp use low-odour or eco-friendly cleaning products?
Yes. Cleancorp uses eco-friendly, low-odour cleaning products that are effective without leaving behind harsh chemical smells. Our approach prioritises indoor air quality, employee wellbeing, and a comfortable workplace environment.
Final Thoughts on Why Scent Matters in the Workplace
Imagine an office that smells as good as it looks, where employees feel energised, visitors feel welcome, and no one leaves with a headache after a long day.
With the right cleaning approach, that’s completely achievable.
Because a great workplace experience isn’t just something you see. It’s something you feel - and smell.
Call Cleancorp on 1300 211 944 for a free quote and discover how your office can look spotless, smell fresh, and support productivity without the harsh chemicals.