If you have recently switched to Rescue™ from a different disinfectant, then you may notice a musty odor, especially if you were previously using a Quat. The smell may also be caused by your gloves.
Quat based disinfectants (such as; Kennel Kare, Kennosol, Companion Cleaner & Disinfectant) leave residues behind on the surface that build up over time- when you first start using Rescue™ , it may take a couple of cleanings to lift this previous built up residue off of the surface. During this time, you may notice a musty smell- please note that this odor is harmless and temporary. After a few weeks of proper cleaning and disinfection, you will notice the smell has disappeared, and Rescue™ will disinfect the surfaces without leaving any odor behind.
During the manufacturing process of some latex & nitrile gloves, there is a sulfur residue left behind on the surface of the latex or nitrile. When this surface comes in contact with hydrogen peroxide, the reaction creates the rotten egg odor. This odor does not mean that the glove and Rescue™ are incompatible, and you can still use latex or nitrile gloves as acceptable Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) when using Rescue™ Disinfectants. The odor will lessen as the residue is removed from the glove, or you can look at using an alternative glove that does not have the same issue.
You may also find these resources useful:
Video: Odors and Residues
- Rescue Cleaning and Disinfection Protocol for Cages and Kennels
- Rescue Cleaning and Disinfection Protocol for Exam Rooms
- Rescue Concentrate Product Sheet
- Keep It Clean Brochure- Infection Control and Biosecurity in Veterinary Medicine
- Blog: Safe Disinfection Doesn't Have to be a Tradeoff
- Guidelines for Standards of Care in Animal Shelters