

Keeping public bathrooms clean is a full-time job! A spotless restroom makes your customers feel comfortable while also ensuring public health and safety. But how can we keep up with bathroom cleaning and make sure our toilets stay fresh? One cost-effective hygiene solution that many businesses use is urinal blocks! Also referred to as ‘urinal cakes’, this clever option helps you combat bad smells and keep urinals clean.
But many different products come under the term ‘urinal cake’, so how can you know which is the right one for you? That’s where this article comes in! We are going to cover everything from what urinal blocks are, what different types are available, and how to choose the right one for your needs! Whether your priority is managing costs, enhancing cleanliness, or ensuring environmental friendliness, this guide will help you make an informed decision on the best urinal hygiene solutions for your restrooms.
What Are Urinal Blocks?
Urinal blocks might not be the most exciting thing in the world, but they play an important role in keeping restrooms clean and fresh! These small, often round or cubed blocks are placed directly in urinals to combat odours and help maintain hygiene. Traditionally, they were made with a chemical called para-dichlorobenzene, which turns from a solid into a gas to release disinfectants that neutralise odours at the source. However, concerns about the environmental and health impacts of para compounds have led to a shift toward more eco-friendly options, which we’ll discuss in a moment!
Urinal blocks are simple to use and incredibly effective in places like public restrooms, office buildings, and other high-traffic areas. They’re usually blue or white and often infused with fresh scents like lemon or pine to keep restrooms smelling clean. Beyond odour control, their antibacterial properties also play a big role in maintaining overall restroom hygiene. Plus, they’re a cost-effective solution, which is why they’re so popular in spaces where cleanliness and freshness are a top priority!
The Different Types of Urinal Blocks

Urinal blocks come in a range of types, each designed to suit different restroom maintenance needs and preferences. The two most common options you’ll come across are para and non-para blocks, which vary in their ingredients and impact on the environment.
Para blocks have been a go-to choice for years. Made with paradichlorobenzene, they’re great at masking strong odours and fighting bacteria. However, while they get the job done, they do come with a downside—they release volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which aren’t the best for the environment or your health. Because of this, many people are moving away from para blocks in favour of greener, safer alternatives.
Non-para blocks have become increasingly popular for their eco-friendliness and safer ingredients. These blocks often use enzymes or biodegradable chemicals to break down urine and bacteria, tackling odours in a more natural way. Plus, they usually come in a variety of fragrances, which can help create a fresher, more pleasant restroom environment!
You’ll also find innovative options like gel or screen blocks. These combine the benefits of a traditional urinal block with a splash-reducing screen, keeping urinals cleaner and more hygienic by preventing splash-back while still controlling odours!
Other Hygiene Options: Urinal Mats and Cleaners
Keeping urinals clean and hygienic goes beyond just using urinal blocks. Products like urinal mats and cleaners are equally important, each offering its own unique benefits to maintain a fresh and sanitary restroom environment!
Urinal mats are designed to fit snuggly in or around the base of a urinal, and they serve multiple purposes. For starters, they help reduce splash-back, which can not only create unpleasant messes but also spread bacteria. On top of that, many urinal mats come infused with odour-neutralising compounds and enzymes that actively break down urine, preventing clogs and keeping things clean. These mats are typically made from flexible, antimicrobial materials that conform to the urinal’s shape for full protection. Some even have colour-fading indicators to let you know when it’s time to replace them—making it easier to keep restrooms hygienic without the guesswork!
Urinal cleaner is a powerful cleaning agent specifically designed to tackle the challenges of urinal maintenance. Whether they’re chemical-based with strong disinfectants or enzymatic cleaners that naturally break down organic waste and odours, these products work hard to eliminate germs, stains, and lingering smells. The right cleaner for the job often depends on the facility’s hygiene needs and sustainability goals, but regular use of these products ensures a healthier, fresher environment by significantly reducing bacteria and odour build-up.
Together, urinal mats and cleaners are essential for maintaining a clean and inviting restroom space, especially in commercial or high-traffic facilities. With the right tools, keeping your restrooms hygienic becomes a whole lot easier!
Choosing The Right One For Your Needs

Choosing the right urinal hygiene product can make a big difference in keeping your restrooms clean, cost-efficient, and well-maintained! Whether you’re deciding between urinal blocks, mats, or cleaners, it’s important to weigh a few key factors to find what works best for your specific needs.
For busy spaces like airports, malls, or stadiums, heavy-duty solutions such as enzymatic urinal blocks and mats are often a smart choice. They provide continuous odour control, reduce splashing, and last longer—making them ideal for high-traffic areas. On the other hand, if your facility has less foot traffic, simpler options like periodic applications of urinal cleaners can be both effective and budget-friendly.
If odour control is your top priority, scented urinal blocks or mats can help keep things smelling fresh. For those more focused on hygiene and tackling bacterial growth, enzymatic cleaners are a great pick. They work by breaking down organic waste, offering a deep and thorough clean.
For facilities aiming to be more eco-friendly, there are sustainable options too. Non-para urinal blocks and biodegradable cleaners are safer for the environment, reducing chemical exposure while helping you meet green certifications. It’s a win-win for your business and the planet!
Of course, budget is another important consideration. Think about the cost per unit and how often replacements or maintenance will be needed. While urinal mats may seem more expensive up front, their durability and splash protection could save you money in the long run by cutting down on cleaning and repairs.
By keeping these factors in mind, you can choose a solution that balances effectiveness, safety, sustainability, and budget. With the right product, you can ensure your restrooms are clean, fresh, and ready to impress!