One of the biggest challenges in public toilet areas is the formation of urine odour and urine scale, particularly in the joints of tiled walls and floors. Urine seeps into the porous surface, where it accumulates and eventually gives off a penetrating odour. Even with frequent cleaning, this problem persists. That is why Schiphol has decided to switch to a structural, preventive treatment with the innovative products Stone Coat and Polish & Coat.
Reason: structural odour problems due to urine scale
Prior to the treatment, it was determined that traditional cleaning methods such as scrubbing and disinfecting only had a temporary effect. The cause often lies deeper: urine and cleaning fluid seep into joints and pores, where bacteria accumulate and cause odour problems that keep recurring. Despite daily cleaning, the following recurred:
- Odour nuisance
- Build-up of urine scale
- Stubborn lime and dirt residues
- An unpleasant user experience
At an international airport where visitor quality and experience are of paramount importance, this is unacceptable.
Solution: treatment with Stone Coat
After a test period in several sanitary areas, Stone Coat was chosen, a high-quality, transparent protective product that has been specially developed for use on mineral surfaces such as tile joints, natural stone and ceramics.
Stone Coat works on the basis of a deep penetrating technology that:
- Saturates the pores of joints and tiles
- Forms a water and dirt-repellent layer
- Prevents urine and other liquids from penetrating into the substrate
- Significantly reduces the adhesion of lime and urine scale
- Actively prevents bacterial growth and odour formation
The protective layer is virtually invisible, does not affect the appearance of the room and at the same time significantly improves hygiene.
Additional finishing with Polish & Coat
For an optimal finish, the tile surfaces have been additionally treated with Polish & Coat. This treatment:
- Strengthens the dirt and moisture-resistant properties of the tiles
- Provides a fresh, even shine
- Makes daily cleaning easier and faster
- Forms a protective film that is less likely to affect cleaning agents
- Extends the lifespan of tiles and grout
The combination of both products provides double protection: Stone Coat works deep into the grout, while Polish & Coat optimizes the visible surface.
Benefits of this combined approach
- Long-term odour control – odour sources are blocked before they arise
- Less contamination – dirt, urine scale and limescale hardly adhere
- Less cleaning time and resources required – lower maintenance costs
- More hygienic for visitors – more pleasant experience for travellers and employees
- Preservation of appearance – tiles and joints stay clean and fresh for longer
- More environmentally friendly maintenance – less aggressive cleaning required, less water consumption
- Fast implementation – spaces can be used again quickly after treatment
Long-term impact on Schiphol
This approach is in line with Schiphol’s aim for sustainable building management, in which comfort, safety and efficiency go hand in hand. By eliminating the cause of odour and pollution problems, instead of always reacting to the symptoms, a situation is created in which:
- Restrooms generate fewer complaints
- Technical maintenance is reduced
- Cleaning is more efficient and environmentally friendly
- Visitors experience consistent quality
Applicability in other environments
Although this approach has been specifically applied to sanitary facilities at Schiphol, the method is suitable for any location where hygiene, intensive use and visitor experience come together, such as:
- Train stations
- Shopping centres
- Hospitals and healthcare institutions
- Educational institutions
- Sports halls and stadiums
- Offices and business centres
The application of Stone Coat in combination with Polish & Coat in the sanitary facilities of Schiphol Airport is a well-considered and proven effective method to structurally prevent odour problems, urine scale and limescale formation. The result is a cleaner, fresher and more representative space that meets the high standard that visitors can expect at an international airport.
This solution shows that preventive maintenance and smart material protection can go hand in hand with sustainability, efficiency and guest experience.