The argument of paper towels vs hand dryers has been going on for many years as businesses use both products in their washrooms. The choice of what hand drying method to use in a bathroom is usually down to preference, where individuals prefer one method of drying over the other. However, in this article, we will look further into which drying method is better for your washroom to put an end to this age-old debate. Read on to find out whether paper towels are better than hand dryers.
Economic Cost
First of all, we will look at economic cost. It is clear that the initial cost of a hand dryer will be much more expensive as you will have to purchase the units as well as having them installed. This will be a large expense at first, which points in the favour of hand towels. Although, hand dryers are initially more expensive, you will only need to cover maintenance and electricity costs afterwards which will be cheaper than the ongoing cost of purchasing paper towels for your washrooms.
Paper hand towels may also require a dispenser which will need to be replenished and maintained so over the long term the use of these towels will be a greater expense compared to hand dryers. The hand dryer is the standout winner in terms of economic cost, as you will not have to spend as much in the long term in restocking on paper towels.
Hygiene
When it comes to hygiene, paper towels are much better than hand dryers. Studies conducted by universities such as Westminster University have found that when individuals use hand dryers to dry their hands, there is an increase in the number of germs left on the individuals hands. This is due to hand dryers leading to microbial contamination.
In the current Coronavirus pandemic, researchers and experts have stated that hand dryers should not be used in washrooms as paper towels are a safer option for drying hands. In 2020, the government also advised that hand dryers should be turned off in toilets and bathrooms due to their potential to generate contaminated aerosols or micro-droplets. So, in regards to hygiene, it is clear that paper towels are the better option to use in your washrooms.
Convenience
Convenience comes down to personal choice in the battle of paper towels vs hand dryers as different people will prefer the benefits of the different methods. Hand towels provide users with sheets ready to dry their hands without having to wait behind in a queue for hand dryers. Whereas hand dryers leave less waste behind and are easier for cleaning staff to maintain. So, both methods have great benefits in convenience so providing either or both options is great for your employees in regards to convenient hand drying.
Overall, in the current climate, paper towels are better to use in your washroom over hand dryers so you can maintain good hygiene levels and keep your staff safe from the contamination of bacteria. If you require paper hand towels for your business, browse the selection available here at Galleon Supplies. We also offer a fantastic range of flushable paper towels which are better for the environment, so your company can become more eco-friendly.
