By taking into account the use, location, and capacity of the soap dispenser, you can choose a product that meets the specific needs of your commercial space and promotes proper hand hygiene practices among employees and customers. Here are some key things to consider when purchasing a soap dispenser:
Soap Dispenser Use
Consider the intended use of the soap dispenser. Will it be used in a high-traffic restroom, a kitchen area, or a healthcare facility? Different environments may require specific types of soap dispensers to ensure proper hygiene and convenience. For example, a touchless soap dispenser may be more suitable for high-traffic areas to minimize cross-contamination, while a manual dispenser may suffice in low-traffic settings.
For maintenance areas, loading docks, or warewashing back-of-house zones, consider dispensers rated for heavy-duty grit/pumice hand cleaners and frequent hard use. These units often pair with larger refills (including gallon jugs) and may use large levers that are easier to operate when hands are dirty, helping keep handwashing accessible without adding mess at the sink.
Soap Dispenser Location
The location where the soap dispenser will be installed is another important factor to consider. Determine if the dispenser will be wall-mounted, placed on a countertop, or integrated into a sink system. Wall-mounted dispensers are ideal for saving space and keeping countertops clutter-free, while countertop dispensers offer flexibility in placement. Additionally, the accessibility of the dispenser for users should be considered to ensure convenient hand hygiene practices.
Soap Dispenser Capacity
The capacity of the soap dispenser refers to the amount of soap it can hold before needing to be refilled. Larger capacity dispensers are suitable for high-traffic areas or busy commercial kitchens where frequent refills may not be practical. Smaller capacity dispensers may be sufficient for low-traffic areas or smaller businesses. Consider the frequency of use and maintenance requirements when selecting a dispenser with the appropriate capacity for your establishment.
Refill System Compatibility (Open vs Closed Systems)
Some dispensers are open systems that let staff pour soap into a reservoir, while others are closed systems that rely on sealed bags, cartridges, or proprietary jugs. Closed systems typically reduce mess and simplify changeouts, and some platforms let you scale volume by using multiple cartridge sizes in the same dispenser. The tradeoff is refill compatibility, as closed systems may require a specific refill format or brand, so confirm refill availability and cost before standardizing across locations.