Restoration logo
  • Sign In
  • Create Account
  • Sign Out
  • My Account
  • NEWS
  • PRODUCTS
  • EDUCATION
  • TOPICS
  • BUSINESS
  • BUYER'S GUIDE
  • VIDEOS
  • INFOCENTER
  • THE EXPERIENCE
  • EMAG
  • SIGN UP
cart
facebook twitter linkedin youtube
  • PRODUCTS
  • New Products & Technologies
  • Submit Your Product
  • Interactive Product Spotlights
  • EDUCATION
  • KnowHow.
  • Podcasts
  • Trade Shows & Expos
  • Training & Certification
  • Webinars
  • Whitepapers
  • TOPICS
  • Water Damage
  • Fire & Smoke Damage
  • Mold
  • Contamination
  • Odor
  • Contents
  • Architecture
  • Catastrophe
  • Cleaning
  • BUSINESS
  • Managing Your Business
  • Insurance/Legal Matters
  • VIDEOS
  • Ask Annissa
  • Ask the Expert
  • Ironclad Marketing Minute
  • TradeTalks
  • Video Channel
  • INFOCENTER
  • Mold and Mycotoxins
  • THE EXPERIENCE
  • Convention & Trade Show
  • R&R Special Issue
  • EMAG
  • eMagazine
  • Archive Issues
  • Contact
  • Advertise
Restoration logo
search
cart
facebook twitter linkedin youtube
  • Sign In
  • Create Account
  • Sign Out
  • My Account
Restoration logo
  • NEWS
  • PRODUCTS
    • New Products & Technologies
    • Submit Your Product
    • Interactive Product Spotlights
  • EDUCATION
    • KnowHow.
    • Podcasts
    • Trade Shows & Expos
    • Training & Certification
    • Webinars
    • Whitepapers
  • TOPICS
    • Water Damage
    • Fire & Smoke Damage
    • Mold
    • Contamination
    • Odor
    • Contents
    • Architecture
    • Catastrophe
    • Cleaning
  • BUSINESS
    • Managing Your Business
    • Insurance/Legal Matters
  • BUYER'S GUIDE
  • VIDEOS
    • Ask Annissa
    • Ask the Expert
    • Ironclad Marketing Minute
    • TradeTalks
    • Video Channel
  • INFOCENTER
    • Mold and Mycotoxins
  • THE EXPERIENCE
    • Convention & Trade Show
    • R&R Special Issue
  • EMAG
    • eMagazine
    • Archive Issues
    • Contact
    • Advertise
  • SIGN UP
Fire and Smoke Damage RestorationContamination Restoration & Remediation​Odor Removal

Why Choose Hydroxyls to Remove Smoke Odors?

Find out how hydroxyl generators can safely and effectively remove smoke odors, improve air quality, and speed up your restoration projects.

By Adrienne Buhr
hydroxyl generator

Photo courtesy of Adrienne Buhr.

November 1, 2024

You’ve probably heard the word “hydroxyl” in restoration, but you might not know exactly what it is or how it helps. Here’s what hydroxyls do and why they’re an excellent tool for deodorizing smoke odors and improving air quality.

After a fire, smoke, and odors can make spaces unsafe and unpleasant. This is because the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) produced by the fire settle into soft goods and even penetrate drywall, wooden beams, and more. Restoring air quality is a big part of the job, but minimizing the amount of material replacement is also a priority. You need fast, effective tools that don’t slow down your work and can be used with occupants. That’s where hydroxyls come in. Unlike some methods that require everyone to leave the area, hydroxyl generators can run while you work. They break down pollutants and odors in the air and on surfaces, improving air quality without extra steps.


What Are Hydroxyls? Nature’s Air Cleaners Indoors

Hydroxyls are molecules that occur naturally outdoors. They’re created when sunlight reacts with water vapor in the air. These molecules help clean the air by breaking down pollutants and odors, keeping it fresh and clean.

Thanks to technological innovations, we can make hydroxyls indoors. Hydroxyl generators produce safe levels of these molecules, just like in nature. Restoration pros can use hydroxyls to clean the air and surfaces simultaneously.


How Hydroxyl Generators Work

Hydroxyl generators work by using either specific UV light wavelengths or an electrical field combined with a catalyst to produce hydroxyls and other oxidants. These react with airborne pollutants such as smoke chemicals, bacteria, mold, chemicals released from smoke-damaged materials, cleaning agents used in restoration, and off-gassing from new materials like carpet and paint. The hydroxyls break down these pollutants, neutralizing odors and purifying the air and the surfaces they come into contact with. The key differences between the two methods are discussed further below.

Hydroxyls don’t just get rid of smoke smells. They also kill mold spores and bacteria in the air and on surfaces, stopping them from spreading. And unlike chemicals like ozone or chlorine dioxide, hydroxyls leave no residue or smell. They’re safe for surfaces, deodorizing fabrics, furniture, and other materials without causing damage.


Benefits of Hydroxyl Generators

  1. Safe for Occupied Spaces: You can use hydroxyl generators in spaces where people are still present. There’s no need to evacuate the area while the air is being cleaned, so you can keep working. This is especially useful in hotels, offices, or homes when time is tight.
  2. Eliminates Smoke, Mold, and Bacteria: Hydroxyls neutralize smoke odors, kill mold spores, and help destroy bacteria. They clean the air and surfaces, making the environment safer and healthier.
  3. No Residue or Damage: Unlike some other methods, hydroxyls don’t leave behind any chemicals or cause damage to materials like upholstery or carpets. There is no need for extra ventilation or clean up after using them.
  4. Speeds Up Projects: Since hydroxyl generators can run while other restoration tasks are happening, you don’t have to wait for air cleaning to finish. This means faster project completion and happier clients.


Choosing the Right Hydroxyl Generator

Choosing the right one for the job is essential when picking a hydroxyl generator. Keep these points in mind:

  • Technology: There are two methods of hydroxyl production in commercial generators: UV light and catalysts. UV-light generators produce higher concentrations of hydroxyls, delivering better efficacy and making them more effective for treating larger spaces. Due to the potency needed to address odor and mold, UV-light hydroxyl generators typically provide better results.
  • Reputation: Seek out a manufacturer with a solid track record, especially companies that have been around for a while. The best companies understand the technology and how to make it work for you.
  • Concentration and Speed: Not all hydroxyl generators are the same. The best models produce enough hydroxyls to clean the air quickly and effectively. This is especially important when you need to remove smoke odors fast. Ask the manufacturer for their hydroxyl and oxidant levels.
  • Ease of Use: Choose an easy generator to set up and maintain. Some models have better user interfaces and require less maintenance, saving time and money.
  • Evidence: Ask your product rep for third-party evidence and testing that proves the unit you are considering is backed by testing with proven results.


Applications for Hydroxyl Generators

Hydroxyl generators are useful in many different situations. Here are a few examples:

  • Hotels and Rental Cars: Smoke smells in hotel rooms and cars can be tough to remove. Hydroxyl generators eliminate these odors without harming fabrics or upholstery.
  • Wildfire and Building Fires: Smoke odors from fires can linger for a long time. Hydroxyl generators break down the chemicals in the smoke, getting rid of the odor instead of just covering it up.
  • Sensitive Spaces: Because they’re safe for use around people, hydroxyl generators are great for places like hospitals, schools, and offices, where people can’t easily be relocated during restoration work.
  • Disasters: After a natural disaster, a hydroxyl generator can be used immediately to help control mold, odor, and other contaminants.


Hydroxyl Generators vs. Ozone Generators

Hydroxyl generators are often compared to ozone generators, but significant differences exist. Here’s why hydroxyls may be the better choice for you:

  • Safety: Ozone generators can’t be used while people are present because ozone can be harmful to breathe. Hydroxyl generators, however, are safe to use in occupied spaces, allowing work to continue without interruptions.
  • No Extra Ventilation Needed: After using ozone, you must open windows or increase mechanical ventilation and ventilate the space for hours. This can slow down the project. Hydroxyls don’t need any special ventilation, saving you time.
  • Gentle on Materials: Ozone can damage fabrics, carpets, and other soft materials, causing them to discolor and wear out faster. Hydroxyls don’t cause this kind of damage, making them a safer option for spaces with delicate items.
  • Occupant / Worker Safety: In many restoration & remediation projects, there is a high concentration of people within a space and risk of transmission of bacteria and viruses is higher. Hydroxyl generators can also minimize risk of spread impacting your workforce or the occupants.


Hydroxyls Are an Excellent Choice for Safe, Effective Smoke Odor Removal in the Air and on Surfaces

When your team is restoring air quality and removing smoke odors, hydroxyl generators could be the tool you need. They replicate nature’s air-cleaning process indoors, neutralizing smoke, mold, and bacteria while being safe for both people and materials. With no harmful side effects, no residue, and no need to pause other work, hydroxyl generators offer an efficient and effective solution for getting the job done fast. For restoration professionals, they provide a cleaner, safer, and faster way to restore indoor environments after smoke damage.

See more articles from our November 2024 issue!

KEYWORDS: hydroxyl generators hydroxyl technology indoor air quality smoke odor remediation

Share This Story

Looking for a reprint of this article?
From high-res PDFs to custom plaques, order your copy today!

Adriennebuhr

Adrienne Buhr is a marketing professional with nearly two decades of expertise in developing strategic marketing initiatives across a range of industries. Currently, she focuses on air purification and indoor air quality for Pyure Dynamic Protection, where she specializes in developing subject matter expert content to inform and educate professionals on the benefits of cleaning the air for improved business outcomes. Her work includes producing knowledge-driven content for the restoration and remediation sectors and others, particularly in the areas of odor removal, pathogen, and chemical contamination mitigation. Adrienne can be reached at abuhr@pyure.com.

Recommended Content

JOIN TODAY
To unlock your recommendations.

Already have an account? Sign In

  • mold remediation

    Fighting Mold and Bacteria Damage

    Successful mold remediation can be multidisciplinary,...
    Cleaning and Sanitation
    By: Josh Woolen
  • certifications and licenses for restoration professionals

    Certifications and Licenses Every Restoration Company Needs

    Restoration companies need to make sure they have the...
    Restoration Training/Education
    By: Sharon Elzarat
  • a wall covered in moss and fungus

    Zero Tolerance for Toxic Molds: Essential Steps for Successful Remediation

    Understanding the importance of zero tolerance for toxic...
    Mold Remediation
    By: Michael A. Pinto CSP, SMS, CMP, RTPE, FLS, ERS and Kendra Seymour
You must login or register in order to post a comment.

Report Abusive Comment

Manage My Account
  • eNewsletter
  • Online Registration
  • Subscription Customer Service
  • Manage My Preferences

Trade Talks - Behind the Curtain: Growth, Leadership and Lessons

Trade Talks - Behind the Curtain: Growth, Leadership and Lessons

Ask The Expert  - Franchise vs. Independent: What Every Business Owner Should Know

Ask The Expert - Franchise vs. Independent: What Every Business Owner Should Know

Streamlining Documentation with 360 Documentation

Streamlining Documentation with 360 Documentation

Estimating to Close: Strategies for Faster, Smarter Claims Resolution

Estimating to Close: Strategies for Faster, Smarter Claims Resolution

More Videos

Popular Stories

bed bug

How Cutting-Edge Bed Bug Tech is Changing the Game for Restoration Pros

particle count hands-on demonstration of a HEPA filter

The Truth About HEPA Filters

water on basement floor

How Much Water Causes Water Damage?

Submit Your New Product/Technology to R&R!

Would you like to promote a new restoration, remediation or cleaning product/technology with Restoration & Remediation? Fill out the question below to start your submission:

Events

September 3, 2025

The Experience Convention and Trade Show

The Experience Convention & Trade Show logoJoin us in Las Vegas for The Experience Convention & Trade Show, the leading event for cleaning, restoration, and remediation pros, packed with hands-on demos, expert speakers, and high-impact networking. Happening September 3–5, 2025 at Caesars Forum—this is where the industry comes to learn, connect, and grow!

View All Submit An Event

Poll

Doffing PPE

When you are doffing your PPE, do you sanitize between every step?
View Results Poll Archive

Products

The Cleaning, Restoration, Inspection, and Safety Glossary

The Cleaning, Restoration, Inspection, and Safety Glossary

The Cleaning, Restoration, Inspection, and Safety Glossary.

See More Products
Prepare for CATASTROPHE with R&R!

Related Articles

  • Fire Restoration

    Removing Smoke Odors from Large Losses in Retail Settings

    See More
  • Web-Exclusive-Features.jpg

    Ask Annissa: How Do You Remove Smoke Odor From Items?

    See More
  • New-Products-and-Technologies.jpg

    Eliminating smoke and fire odors

    See More

Related Products

See More Products
  • After-The-Smoke-Clears.gif

    After The Smoke Clears...

See More Products

Related Directories

  • LearnToRestore.com

    LearnToRestore.com is the leading IICRC-approved school with certification courses in water, fire, smoke, odor, contents processing, and more. Learn and earn your certification in person or online with our live-stream classes. Our expert-led training prepares you with essential skills to excel in the restoration industry!
×

Stay ahead of the curve with our eNewsletters.

Get the latest industry updates tailored your way.

JOIN TODAY!
  • RESOURCES
    • Advertise
    • Contact Us
    • Directories
    • Store
    • Want More
    • Submit a Press Release
  • SIGN UP TODAY
    • Create Account
    • eNewsletters
    • Customer Service
    • Manage Preferences
  • SERVICES
    • Reprints
    • Marketing Services
    • Market Research
    • List Rental
    • Survey/Respondent Access
  • STAY CONNECTED
    • LinkedIn
    • Facebook
    • YouTube
    • X (Twitter)
  • PRIVACY
    • PRIVACY POLICY
    • TERMS & CONDITIONS
    • DO NOT SELL MY PERSONAL INFORMATION
    • PRIVACY REQUEST
    • ACCESSIBILITY

Copyright ©2025. All Rights Reserved BNP Media.

Design, CMS, Hosting & Web Development :: ePublishing

Restoration logo
search
cart
facebook twitter linkedin youtube
  • Sign In
  • Create Account
  • Sign Out
  • My Account
Restoration logo
  • NEWS
  • PRODUCTS
    • New Products & Technologies
    • Submit Your Product
    • Interactive Product Spotlights
  • EDUCATION
    • KnowHow.
    • Podcasts
    • Trade Shows & Expos
    • Training & Certification
    • Webinars
    • Whitepapers
  • TOPICS
    • Water Damage
    • Fire & Smoke Damage
    • Mold
    • Contamination
    • Odor
    • Contents
    • Architecture
    • Catastrophe
    • Cleaning
  • BUSINESS
    • Managing Your Business
    • Insurance/Legal Matters
  • BUYER'S GUIDE
  • VIDEOS
    • Ask Annissa
    • Ask the Expert
    • Ironclad Marketing Minute
    • TradeTalks
    • Video Channel
  • INFOCENTER
    • Mold and Mycotoxins
  • THE EXPERIENCE
    • Convention & Trade Show
    • R&R Special Issue
  • EMAG
    • eMagazine
    • Archive Issues
    • Contact
    • Advertise
  • SIGN UP