If you’ve ever used a public restroom, you’ve probably noticed that many urinals have ice cubes in them. You might have wondered why someone decided to add ice to the urinal, and if it serves any purpose. In this article, we will explore the reasons why ice is used in urinals and if it helps with odor control.
What is the purpose of ice in urinals?
The use of ice in urinals is a common practice in many public restrooms. It is believed that the cooling effect of ice can help reduce unpleasant odors and make the restroom experience more pleasant for visitors.
According to The New York Times, the origins of using ice in urinals are somewhat unclear, but the practice has been around for at least a few decades. Some bar owners swear by the effectiveness of ice cubes in their urinals and claim that it has helped them to maintain a clean and fresh-smelling bathroom.
However, not all experts agree that ice in urinals is an effective solution to odor control. Ed Janowiak, a consultant in the plumbing industry, told Snopes, “The ice in the urinal is a gimmick that offers the perception of aiding odor control while providing little or no actual benefit.”
Does ice in urinals help with odor control?
While some people swear by the use of ice in urinals for odor control, there isn’t much scientific evidence to support this claim. In fact, the effectiveness of ice in urinals is still a highly debated topic among experts in the plumbing industry.
One theory is that the cold temperature of the ice slows down the multiplication of bacteria, which can lead to the formation of odors. However, according to The Washington Post, there isn’t much scientific evidence to support this theory. The publication notes that “those studying the effectiveness of ice in reducing odors have found mixed results.”
Additionally, another theory is that the melting ice washes away debris and bacteria in the urinal, but this also lacks concrete evidence. Some experts believe that the cold temperature of the ice may actually cause more bacteria to accumulate on the surface.
How often should ice be added to urinals?
The frequency at which ice should be added to urinals is subjective and varies depending on the establishment. Some places add ice to their urinals multiple times a day, while others only add it once every few days.
Many bars and restaurants tend to use ice more frequently not just for odor control, but also for aesthetic reasons. Adding ice to the urinal can give it a cleaner and more visually appealing look. Plus, it can be seen as a sign that the establishment is taking cleanliness seriously.
In Conclusion
The practice of using ice in urinals has been around for decades, and while some believe it to be a highly effective solution to odor control, there isn’t much scientific evidence to support this claim. However, the cooling effect of ice can make the restroom experience more pleasant for visitors, and it can be seen as a sign that the establishment is taking cleanliness seriously.