Waterless urinals on the market have highly finished, liquid-repellant surfaces. Because urine is essentially soft water and does not adhere to these surfaces — and because no water is used in their operation — there are fewer deposits or stains left on the urinals, and therefore, less scrubbing is necessary compared with water-flushed urinals, which can get hard water stains.

One concern custodial workers often have about waterless urinals is that they will increase malodors and affect restroom air quality. However, the trap/cylinder system on most waterless urinals has proved to be effective at eliminating this problem. In fact, studies have shown that no-flush urinals have about the same or less odor as conventional urinals. Still, it is important that the urinal and surrounding areas be cleaned and well-maintained, as in all restrooms with traditional urinals.