It seems like the hand dryers Vs paper towel debate is based around two main factors: hygiene and environmental, two discussions we’ve recently covered. However, one often overlooked argument is the cost element. This probably feels like a foregone conclusion – surely a paper towel is cheaper than a hand dryer? But, when you start looking long term, a very different picture suddenly appears.
Let’s look at the costs
The average price of a hand dryer from Hand Dryers UK is around £200. They start at £54 and go up to £1230 for a state of the art unit. Compared with paper towels which may seem inexpensive initially, but the costs quickly add up. For instance, assuming a conservative 2 paper towels per use, a business with 100 daily users can spend approximately £547 annually on paper towels. This figure also doesn't account for additional expenses such as paper towel dispensers and maintenance (paper towels are generally messier than hand dryers). Then there are other costs to consider, such as waste disposal as paper towels are not recyclable, and storage of the paper towels.
In contrast, modern hand dryers like Turboforce Junior PLUS can provide 2400 dries per £1 spent on electricity. This clearly represents a significant reduction in annual operating costs compared to paper towels.
Scalability across business sizes
The financial advantages of hand dryers become even more pronounced in larger establishments. For example, a facility with 400 daily uses could spend up to £2,190 annually on paper towels, whereas the Turboforce Junior PLUS would cost roughly £60.83 in electricity for that same year. Even including the cost of the hand dryer, you would save nearly £2000 annually just by making the switch.
Environmental considerations
As mentioned at the outset of the article, hand dryers can offer things beyond the cost savings. Paper towels generate significant waste and require continuous replenishment, leading to deforestation and increased landfill use. Hand dryers, on the other hand, eliminate paper waste entirely and have a lower carbon footprint over time. You can read more about this in this article.
Product recommendations
For businesses seeking reliable and efficient hand drying solutions, Hand Dryers UK offers a range of products tailored to various needs:
Dryflow JetDri Mark II Hand Dryer: Known for its rapid drying time and energy efficiency, making it suitable for high-traffic areas.
Dryflow Ecowave Hand Dryer with HEPA Filter: Combines eco-friendly operation with enhanced hygiene features, ideal for healthcare settings.
Dyson Airblade V HU02 Hand Dryer: Offers a sleek design and fast drying times, perfect for modern office environments.
Investing in high-quality hand dryers can be thought of as a strategic for both financial and environmental rewards. By reducing ongoing expenses associated with paper towels and minimizing ecological impact, businesses can enhance operational efficiency and demonstrate a commitment to sustainability.
At Handryers UK we offer free next day delivery, 90 day returns and an industry leading price match policy. We can also provide an installation service if needed. For any further help simply call us on 0114 322 3663 or contact us here.