Soap dispensers are a convenient way to wash hands in a hygienic and efficient manner. They keep countertops clear and help save space in small bathrooms and kitchens.
This automatic soap dispenser dispenses just the right amount and has a clear canister, so you can easily see when it’s time to refill. It also comes in several colors and finishes to fit different design aesthetics.
Automatic Dispensers
A touchless automatic soap dispenser is a great addition to any commercial restroom. The touch-free design eliminates one potential contact point between your guests and germs, so they can wash their hands faster. Plus, the pre-programmed settings ensure your guests and employees don’t use too much or too little soap—saving you money on soap refills!
While automatic soap dispensers vary in mechanics and functions, most use passive infrared sensors to sense hand movement and trigger the pump. The pump then dispenses a pre-programmed amount of soap. Some dispensers built into sink basins may feature radar-based or photo sensor technology, which senses disruptions in energy or focus of light. Regardless of the mechanism used, all automatic dispensers require a power source to operate. Most run on single-use AA or AAA batteries, but there are also some with rechargeable built-in batteries. Some units will have a battery life indicator that lets you know when it’s time to replace or recharge.
Countertop or wall-mounted, these automatic dispensers are a stylish addition to any sink-side area. They can hold dish soap, hand soap or hand sanitizer, and they’re available in several sleek finishes to match your decor. Most are designed for use with a matching touch-free faucet, making them an ideal choice for restrooms shared by the public. You can even find models that can be mounted in the corner of a room or outside a door for convenience and accessibility.
Manual Dispensers
Whether mounted to walls or placed on countertops, manual dispensers feature push pumps that enable easy soap dispensing. They’re ideal for low-traffic areas and work well in washrooms with limited wall space. These soap dispensers are available in a variety of sizes to accommodate different facility requirements, and can be refilled with liquid and foam hand soap or sanitizer bottles.
Often referred to as manual hand sanitizer dispensers or manual soap dispensers, grey manually operated dispensers are essential components in facilities where maintaining hygiene and preventing the spread of germs is paramount. These Soap dispensers allow users to dispense just the right amount of liquid or foam hand soap for a hygienic handwashing experience that helps prevent the spread of germs and illnesses in public spaces.
The most important factor when deciding on a manual or automatic soap dispenser is to ensure that it’s used correctly. Encourage your guests and visitors to use the proper hand washing technique by placing helpful hand washing posters in your washrooms. You may also want to consider a dual pump dispenser, such as the VISTA Hands On dispenser, that can be used with liquid and foam soap products. These dispensers are also a great choice for high-traffic washrooms as they hold a large capacity and require less frequent refills. These dispensers are also a more sanitary option, as the pump component is only touched by one hand during usage, reducing the risk of cross contamination.
Countertop Dispensers
Kitchen soap dispensers help your hand-washing routine run smoothly. Find models with a wide spout to make it easier for you to get the right amount of soap for each use. They also feature a refillable design that reduces single-use plastic and fits with IKEA’s goal of striving for zero waste. Some are dishwasher-safe, and others can be easily washed by hand with warm soapy water.
Soap dispensers come in a variety of colors, materials and designs to fit your decor. Select a stainless steel finish for a sleek look that coordinates with your sink faucet or creates a gorgeous contrasting style. Consider a glazed porcelain option for a look that’s neither too modern nor too traditional, or go with rattan or molded resin to bring an organic texture into your home.
Installing a countertop soap dispenser is easy and makes a big difference over bottled soap or bar soap. Choose a model that has a mounting nut at the bottom of the bottle that screws into the escutcheon plate in your sink. You may need a basin wrench to tighten the nut, and it’s important to only apply the necessary pressure to ensure that the dispenser stays secure on your countertop. You can mount your new soap dispenser with a washer or rubber washer that’s provided in the packaging to keep it waterproof and prevent leaks.
Material
Soap dispensers are available in a variety of materials, which can impact the aesthetic of the piece as well as durability. “No one wants to be swapping dispensers every few months because of rust, clogs or breakage,” Vroom notes. Glass and ceramic dispensers tend to be more durable than metal, as the latter can be prone to corrosion. Resin and plastic also are durable options, though they might not be as visually appealing.
In addition to considering material, consider the design of your facility’s bathrooms when choosing a soap dispenser. For example, a modern bathroom might require a streamlined dispenser with a minimal style. A traditional or rustic bathroom, however, may call for a more ornate, decorative dispenser.
Another consideration is deciding whether to use a refillable or non-refillable dispenser. A refillable dispenser allows facilities to purchase bulk jugs of soap or other liquids for a lower cost than purchasing individual cartridges. In some cases, this can result in up to an 80% savings per gallon of soap. Plus, using refillable dispensers can reduce your organization’s waste output by up to 57% and cut down on recurring costs. In addition, some refillable systems allow occupants to adjust dispensing rates, which can help minimize overuse and waste. In contrast, non-refillable systems may require the occupant to touch or push down on a lever to dispense the soap.
