If you’re like most business owners, you want to keep costs low while still providing the courtesies that your customers and employees desire. The variables associated with a restroom hand dryer versus paper towels are many, but there are some points to consider if you’re thinking about making the switch.
Considerations
To determine how much it will cost to use a restroom hand dryer versus paper towels, you should estimate how much the bathrooms are used each day. Likewise, this can depend on the nature of the business and size, but a rough estimate is plenty. In most cases, it will be between 150 and 200 uses each day, though this number will be higher for restaurants. You’ll also have to factor in additional costs, such as maintenance, trash bags, paper towels purchased, and more. These additional costs can be tough to pinpoint but can help you make an informed decision.
Paper Towels
While the cost of purchasing a dispenser is relatively small (usually less than $100), the ongoing expenses can add up quickly. While the price of paper towels will vary depending on the size, brand, and quality. Likewise, you will have to determine how many cases or packs of towels you use each day. For example, if you purchase 12 packs, each with 250 towels for $30 and use one package a day, your total costs are about $75 each month. However, this doesn’t factor in maintenance and trash bags. Most people use two towels to dry their hands, and will likely waste towels by pulling out too many.
Dryers
A restroom hand dryer machine will cost much more than the towel dispenser and will also increase your energy usage. However, you will usually make back the money you spend in as little as seven months, and won’t be spending money on towels every month.
