Article

What does 'clean' smell like?


The answer varies depending on who you ask and might depend on the products, applications, and countries from where you ask it. In Homecare and Industrial Cleaning (HIC) applications, we commonly think of traditional scents such as chlorine bleach, pine, and lemon. As our environment needs and preferences change, cleaning fragrances are also evolving—and the answer to this question is becoming more complex. Savvy formulators of cleaning products have found that fragrances are a valuable way of differentiating among brands and creating unique experiences for customers.

In 2021, formulators are focusing on several key trends impacting the use of fragrances in cleaning products and reshaping our ideas of what clean smells like. These four (4) trends are influencing how the HIC industry is reimagining the scents of today’s cleaning products.

1. Natural Ingredients

Many consumers are interested in minimizing the use of chemicals, which has driven a trend for natural ingredients, and fragrances are no exception. Naturally sourced fragrances are typically made from natural aromatics such as essential oils, oleoresins, distillates, fractions, concretes, and absolutes. For example, a natural lavender might be sourced from the distillation of the flower spikes of certain lavender species. Univar Solutions and Arylessence have addressed this interest in natural fragrances by offering more than 300 fragrances that are naturally derived. We also have access to 35 organically grown essential oils, which would provide formulators with even more options to create a fragrance from natural ingredients.

Our Solution: 300+ Fragrances Derived from Nature

2. Sustainable Sources

Another key fragrance trend is sustainability, where sustainability refers to a consumer’s interest in protecting the environment by not depleting natural resources. This priority is often seen by requests for “green” products, or sustainable products designed to minimize environmental impacts. Univar Solutions and Arylessence have addressed this trend by developing a unique line of signature fragrances for cleaning applications that are exclusive to our line and meet the U.S. EPA’s Safer Choice standards. These standards ensure products are safe for use without sacrificing quality or performance. Univar’s Signature Fragrances are a palette of 30 unique blends focused on cleaning applications ranging from laundry detergents, all-purpose cleaners, and car care products.

Our Solution: Signature Fragrances Pallete of 30 Unique Blends, All Sustainably Sourced

3. Earth and Sea Inspired Scents

This trend refers to consumers’ preference for fragrances with naturally inspired scents from the earth and sea. These scents tend to evoke a sense of fresh and clean, and often incorporate tones of florals, fruits, and spices. Our Signature Fragrances were inspired by this theme and address this trend well. For example, a Univar Signature Fragrance called Dockside is described as an inviting scent of cool, breezy ozone swirled with brilliant citron zest and wild greenery accented with juicy pomegranate, red currant, and ethereal rosewater. Univar’s other Signature Fragrances appeal to these natural senses and can be reviewed via a product brochure or experienced firsthand by ordering soon to be available sample kits.

Whether it be our Island Escape, Fresh Blossom, or Dew Misted Woods that comes to mind to create a sense of clean in your environment, Univar will deliver a tailored experience to meet these key trends in today’s Homecare and Industrial Cleaning industry.

4. Indie Brands

Independent brands from small specialty formulators are a popular niche because of their unique, personalized, and often social conscious approach. These indie brands often address many of the previously mentioned fragrance trends and deliver the experience many consumers are looking for while seeking natural, sustainable products made locally and packaged with a more personal story. The formulators that fit into this category are well suited for working with chemical distribution since they typically have limited resources and benefit from the technical and logistic support that Univar Solutions provides. Univar’s Signature Fragrances are also a great option for these formulators because of our ready-made blends that provide unique naturally inspired scents.

Our Solution: Supporting Local and Small Batch Blends

Whether it be our Island Escape, Fresh Blossom, or Dew Misted Woods that comes to mind to create a sense of clean in your environment, Univar will deliver a tailored experience to meet these key trends in today’s Homecare and Industrial Cleaning industry.

Discover our fragrance kits containing Arylessence Signature Fragrances designed specifically for Univar Solutions


Manual Dish Liquid Fragrances

These fragrance selections were inspired by natural watering elements that evoke a pleasant, clean experience.

  • Wild Island Berry
  • Sea Minerals
  • Waterlily Rain
  • Pineapple Punch
  • Dockside
  • Fresh Blossom

Liquid Laundry Fragrances

This collection of fresh and clean fragrances are designed for laundry care and include fresh florals, crisp fruits and nature inspired green notes.

  • Sunrise Fresh
  • Spring Fever
  • Island Escape
  • Dew-Misted Woods
  • Waterlily Rain
  • Mountain Laurel

All-Purpose Cleaner

The fragrance selections were inspired by subtle floral notes combined with natural green effects to provide a cheerful, effervescent freshness.

  • Sea Salt Waves
  • Clover & Sage
  • Citrus & Thyme
  • Sea Spray
  • Fresh & Clean
  • Ginger Lime

Shower & Tub Cleaners

Each dynamic scent conveys essential “fresh and clean” efficacy without heavy, unattractive perfumes – creating a modern, enjoyable sensory experience for a broad range of consumers.

  • Sun-kissed Herbs
  • Sparkle & Shine
  • Citrus Burst
  • Dew-Misted Woods
  • Mountain Laurel

Tunnel Car Wash

This fragrance grouping was designed for an optimal sensory experience that enhances the drive-thru car cleaning with modern and trendy notes.

  • Fresh & Clean
  • Coconut Lime
  • Ginger Mist
  • Soothing Lavender
  • Mandarin Yuzu

Water-Based Tire Dressing

Strategically designed fragrances expertly supporting car care cleaning product applications, inspired by leading market brands and popular profiles. Each dynamic scent conveys a modern, enjoyable sensory experience for a broad range of consumers.

  • Totally Tropical
  • Relaxing Lavender
  • Waterfall Mist
  • Black Orchid
  • Platinum Shine

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