When it comes to public restrooms, the debate between hand dryers vs paper towels is ongoing. Each hand drying method has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, impacting hygiene, cost, environmental footprint, and user experience. In this article, we'll explore these factors in detail to help you make an informed decision for your building or business.

Hygiene Comparison: Hand Dryers vs Paper Towels

Hygiene is a major consideration in the hand dryers vs paper towels debate. Studies have shown mixed results, with some indicating that paper towels are more effective at removing bacteria due to the physical action of rubbing hands against the paper towels while drying. However, modern electric hand dryers, particularly those with HEPA filters, are designed to minimize the spread of germs, providing a hygienic option for users. When a HEPA filter is used, the air exiting the hand dryer can be cleaner than the air in the rest of the bathroom.  Some hand dryers now have additional air purification features to further clean the air in the room.  Both hand drying methods can be hygienic if used properly, but it's essential to consider the specific context and user behavior in your facility.  Two important factors to note: 1) According to the CDC, it’s important that hands are always thoroughly dried after washing. Wet hands are far more likely to retain and spread germs than dry hands. 2) When looking at studies that compare hygiene for hand dryers vs paper towels, those funded by the paper towel industry tend to show that paper towels are better, while those funded by the hand dryer industry show that hand dryers are better.  The neutral studies we have seen show them to be about the same. 

Electric Hand Dryers vs Paper Towels: Which is More Cost-Effective?

When assessing the cost of paper towels vs hand dryers, it's important to consider both initial and ongoing expenses. Paper towel dispensers have a lower initial cost, but the recurring expense of restocking paper towels can add up quickly. On the other hand, electric hand dryers have a higher upfront cost but require less maintenance and no ongoing supply costs. Over time, hand dryers can prove to be more cost-effective, especially in high-traffic areas where the demand for paper towels is high. A thorough cost comparison of hand dryers and paper towels should include these factors to determine the best fit for your budget.  Some hand drying companies include cost calculators on their websites to show what your savings might be by switching to hand dryers.  

Maintenance of Hand Dryers vs Paper Towels

Maintaining hand dryers versus paper towels involves distinct considerations that affect both operational efficiency and environmental impact. Hand dryers require relatively low maintenance—periodic checks and occasional cleaning are typically sufficient to ensure they operate effectively.  Hand dryer companies generally say that you should open the hand dryer cover and clean it out with air or a brush once a year.  Spoiler alert: most establishments do not perform that maintenance. There's no need for constant restocking or disposal of waste, which can streamline facility management and reduce labor costs. Additionally, high-quality hand dryers are built to last for several years, reducing the frequency and costs associated with replacements.  Warranties range from one to 10 years with many hand dryers lasting much longer. There are still some old classic hand dryers on the walls that were installed in the 1980s or earlier.  Those dryers tend to be very durable, but not as fast and certainly not as energy efficient as modern hand dryers.

On the other hand, paper towel dispensers often require more frequent maintenance. This includes regular refilling, managing stock levels, and disposing of used towels, which can add to the workload of maintenance staff. Paper towels also generate waste that must be regularly removed and can increase the cost of waste management services. While the initial installation of hand dryers may be more costly than paper towel dispensers, the long-term savings and environmental benefits of reduced waste make hand dryers an appealing option for many facilities looking to minimize their operational complexities and environmental footprint.

Assessing the Carbon Footprint: Paper Towels vs Hand Dryers

The environmental impact of hand dryers vs paper towels is a crucial consideration. Hand dryers, particularly energy-efficient models, tend to have a far lower carbon footprint compared to paper towels. The production (which includes trees, chemicals and water), transportation, and disposal of paper towels into landfills contribute significantly to environmental degradation. In contrast, electric hand dryers, while consuming electricity, are more sustainable over time, especially if the electricity comes from renewable sources. It takes far less energy to power a hand dryer than it does to make the equivalent amount of paper towels, so you can see how that one factor alone helps to make hand dryers so much less expensive than paper towels.  

 Understanding the carbon footprint of paper towels vs hand dryers is essential for making eco-friendly decisions.

Environmental Impact

The environmental impact of hand dryers versus paper towels is a critical consideration for facilities aiming to adopt sustainable practices. Hand dryers provide a significant advantage in terms of reducing waste. Unlike paper towels, which generate a considerable amount of waste that contributes to landfill usage and requires energy for production, transport, and disposal, hand dryers offer a one-time installation with minimal waste output over their lifetime. This reduces the demand on forest resources and the energy consumed in manufacturing and recycling processes associated with paper products.

Additionally, modern hand dryers are increasingly energy-efficient, utilizing advanced technology to reduce electricity consumption. Some models are designed to dry hands quickly and effectively, minimizing the energy used per dry. This contrasts with the continuous resource drain of producing, transporting, and disposing of paper towels. While hand dryers do require energy to operate, their overall environmental footprint can be lower than that of paper towels, particularly when considering their long lifespan and the elimination of paper waste. Thus, from a sustainability perspective, hand dryers can be a more environmentally friendly option, aligning with goals for waste reduction and energy efficiency in facilities management.

User Experience: Hand Dryer vs Paper Towels

User experience is another vital aspect to consider when choosing between hand dryers vs paper towels. Some users just like paper towels more. They prefer the quick and familiar process of drying their hands with paper towels. Others, however, appreciate the touchless, high-speed drying offered by modern hand dryers. Noise levels, drying time, and overall convenience are factors that can influence user satisfaction. Let’s face it. Since people have very strong opinions about this, providing both options can cater to diverse preferences and improve overall restroom satisfaction.

Shop Options with Berl's

At Berl's, we offer a wide range of both hand dryers and paper towel dispensers to suit your facility's needs. Whether you're looking for high-efficiency electric hand dryers or reliable paper towel dispensers, we have the products to meet your requirements. Explore our selection to find the best solutions for your restroom, balancing hygiene, cost, environmental impact, and user experience. By providing both options, you can ensure that all preferences are met, and your facility remains clean and efficient.

The choice between hand dryers vs paper towels involves multiple factors, including hygiene, cost, environmental impact, and user experience. Each method has its benefits, and the best choice often depends on the specific needs of your facility. At Berl's, we understand the importance of providing versatile hand drying solutions and are here to help you make the best decision for your space.