As the market for waterless urinals continues to grow, a wider range of competing products is appearing. On the surface many of these solutions can seem similar, particularly to estates teams focused on cost and quick installation. However, the long-term performance, safety and reliability of waterless urinals vary greatly, and this is where URIMAT consistently stands apart.

For over 25 years URIMAT has led the waterless urinal market through high-quality engineering, long-term durability and proven odour-free operation. Yet one aspect that is often under-appreciated is the essential role of correct cleaning. Competing systems may promise easy maintenance, but few have the robust evidence base that supports the URIMAT cleaning process.

A key differentiator for URIMAT is the use of MB ActiveCleaner, a microbiological cleaner specifically developed to keep URIMAT units hygienic, odour-free and performing at their best. Unlike some general cleaning products often recommended for competitor systems, MB ActiveCleaner has been rigorously tested and independently verified for both effectiveness and safety.

Dermatologically tested for user and staff safety

An important point, and one not always known within the sector, is that MB ActiveCleaner has undergone dermatological testing to ensure its safe use by cleaning teams and safe contact with users’ washroom environments. The cleaner has been reviewed by dermatology specialists, confirming that it meets stringent safety requirements and poses no irritation risk when used as directed.

This level of independent assessment is unusual in the market and demonstrates the importance URIMAT places on both product performance and user well-being. Estates and facilities managers choosing lower-cost alternatives may not be aware that some competing systems rely on harsher chemical cleaners that can cause irritation, damage surfaces or degrade components over time.

Proven effectiveness as part of the URIMAT system

The system-based approach is another key area where URIMAT outperforms other retrofit options. The urinal, the odour trap and the cleaning regime are designed to work together. MB ActiveCleaner supports the biological process within the odour trap, maintaining high-performance odour control even in busy washrooms.

Competing products often rely on generic cleaning agents, which can disrupt odour traps, shorten component lifespan or simply fail to control odours effectively. This can lead to the familiar complaints many organisations experienced with earlier generations of waterless technology. URIMAT avoids these issues through consistent, system-led design.

Long-term performance that reduces complaints and avoids hidden costs

Washroom odours remain one of the primary concerns raised by users, and once complaints occur they quickly become resource-intensive to manage. Because URIMAT uses a proven long-term system, supported by correct cleaning, estates teams avoid the ongoing cycle of troubleshooting and reactive maintenance that can erode the apparent cost savings of cheaper alternatives.

Choosing URIMAT is not only about the hardware. It is about investing in a technology with a comprehensive evidence base, clear maintenance procedures and a track record of consistent performance in high-traffic environments across the world.

Why this matters now

With more retrofit products entering the market, it is important that decision-makers understand the differences that sit behind those solutions. Price-driven alternatives can appear attractive at first glance, but without evidence of safety testing, compatibility between components and proven long-term results, organisations risk installing systems that generate higher total costs and lower user satisfaction.

URIMAT continues to be the leading choice because it offers a fully engineered, fully tested and fully supported system. The dermatological testing of MB ActiveCleaner is just one example of the level of detail that underpins every part of the URIMAT solution.

Supporting your decision-making

If your organisation is reviewing retrofit options or comparing waterless technologies, we can provide full technical documentation, including the dermatology report for MB ActiveCleaner, performance data, installation guidance and case studies.