Picture this: your customer walks into your commercial restroom, only to find that the soap being used is cheap, drying, and messy. It’s a frustrating experience that many customers complain about. As a business owner, you must reconsider the type of soap being used in your commercial restroom. We will tell you why!
From foam or liquid or a wall-mounted automatic soap dispenser, the type of soap you choose makes a big impact on the overall aesthetic of your commercial restroom. Not just that, a good soap also helps to maintain your restroom’s cleanliness and hygiene.
A few factors should always be considered when deciding on the soap type for your commercial restroom. As with any product, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision. This blog explores all the necessary details about foam and liquid soap to help you determine which is best for your business.
Foam Soap in Commercial Restrooms
Foam soap has become a popular alternative for commercial restrooms, but it, like every product, has advantages and disadvantages. Let’s take a closer look at the benefits and drawbacks of foam soap in greater depth.
Benefits of using foam soap in commercial restrooms:
- Cost-Effective: Foam soap requires less soap per use, making it a cost-effective option for businesses that want to save money.
- Hygienic: These soaps are less likely to harbour bacteria and other germs because of its unique formula. The foam’s texture also means it’s less likely to come into contact with contaminated surfaces, making it a more hygienic option.
- Environment Friendly: It comes in refillable cartridges, which can reduce the amount of plastic waste that a business generates.
Here are a few reasons, why foam soaps may not be the best option for your commercial restroom:
- Can Dry Out Hands: Foam soap can contain higher alcohol content than liquid soap, which can strip the skin of its natural oils. This can leave the hands feeling dry and irritated.
- Requires a Special Dispenser: Such soaps require a special dispenser that can be costly to install. This can be a barrier for businesses that are on a tight budget.
- Less Effective at Removing Dirt and Grime: These are generally less effective at removing deeply ingrained dirt and grime than liquid soap. While it can remove surface-level dirt and grime, it may not be as effective at getting rid of stubborn stains.
Liquid Soap in Commercial Restrooms
Liquid soap has been a staple in commercial restrooms for many years, but what are the pros and cons of this tried and true option?
Benefits of using liquid soap in commercial restrooms:
- Easy to Use: These are easy to dispense, making it a popular option for businesses. It’s also easier to use than foam soap, as it doesn’t require a special dispenser.
- Variety of Scents and Formulas: They come in a wide range of scents and formulas, allowing businesses to choose the one that best suits their needs. From moisturising formulas to antibacterial options, there’s a liquid soap out there for everyone.
- Effective at Removing Dirt and Grime: Liquid soaps are generally more effective at removing deeply ingrained dirt and grime than foam soap. It can easily penetrate dirt and oil, leaving hands feeling clean and refreshed.
Some of the reasons why liquid soaps may not be the best option:
- Expensive: Liquid soap can be more expensive than foam soap, especially if businesses opt for high-end or specialty formulas. This can be a barrier for businesses that are on a tight budget.
- Prone to Bacterial Growth: Because liquid soap is stored in a moist environment, it can be more prone to bacterial growth than foam soap. This can be a concern for businesses that prioritise hygiene.
- Wastage: Liquid soap can be more prone to waste than foam soap, as it can be dispensed in larger quantities. This can lead to more soap being used than is necessary, which can increase costs.
3 Factors for Choosing Soap in Commercial Restrooms
Choosing the right soap for your commercial restroom is an important decision. There are several factors to consider before making a purchase, let’s take a closer look at each of these.
- Foot Traffic & Frequency of Use:
- In a high foot traffic shop, use a soap that can withstand heavy use without running out.
- Choose a formula that can last longer to save money and minimise the need for frequent refills.
- To save costs, always buy in bulk for your business.
- Opt for a soap that can be dispensed quickly and easily to avoid long wait times or lines.
- Type of Business:
- Different types of businesses have different requirements for hand soap, such as:
- Hospitals and medical facilities need an antibacterial soap to prevent the spread of germs.
- Offices or retail spaces should prioritise a hand soap with a pleasant scent to create a welcoming environment for customers.
- Restaurants require a soap that can easily cut through grease and food stains.
- Different types of businesses have different requirements for hand soap, such as:
- Sustainability Goals:
- If you are a business striving to be more environmentally friendly, then soap choice is no exception. Here are a few tips to look out for:
- Purchase a soap that comes in eco-friendly packaging like refillable dispensers or biodegradable packaging.
- Buy soaps made from natural, organic ingredients that are good for the environment.
- Market your sustainable choices to customers, like eco-friendly shaving mirrors and lights, this can make your business stand out from others.
- If you are a business striving to be more environmentally friendly, then soap choice is no exception. Here are a few tips to look out for:
Ultimately, the decision between foam and liquid soap depends on the unique needs of your business. By taking into account the discussed factors, you can make an informed decision to ensure a positive experience for your customers or clients.
