The Cost of Hand Dryers vs. Paper Towels: What’s Best for Your Business?

A clean, efficient washroom should be a priority for any business. Whether you’re catering for employees, visitors or members of the public, the state of your facilities can leave a lasting impression. Users will expect to see well-maintained facilities, as well as suitable drying methods.

But it’s not just about hygiene - your choice of hand-drying method can impact your costs, environmental footprint and customer experience. One of the biggest decisions businesses face is whether to install hand dryers, continue using paper towels – or provide both.

At first glance, paper towels might seem like the simpler option, but when you consider long-term costs and sustainability, hand dryers often come out on top. In this blog, we’ll break down the costs of both options and help you decide what’s best for your business.

The cost of hand dryers vs. paper towels

So what is the real cost different between hand dryers and paper towels? While it can vary depending on the size of your business and the suppliers you choose, we’ve provided a bit of an overview of your expected costs: 

The cost of hand dryers

Hand dryers require an initial investment, but they can help save businesses money in the long run. Modern energy-efficient models can cost as little as £15–£30 per year in electricity, compared to thousands spent on paper towels.

Other cost benefits of hand dryers include:
•    No need to purchase, store or restock paper towels
•    Reduced waste disposal costs
•    Less maintenance and cleaning (no overflowing bins or discarded towels)
Your business could recoup the cost of a hand dryer in just a few months, making it a smart long-term investment.

Paper towel costs

Paper towels may seem inexpensive at first, but their ongoing costs quickly add up. The typical paper towel costs for a business washroom ranges from £500 to £2,000 per year, depending on usage.

Other hidden costs include:
•    Constant restocking and replenishment
•    Additional bin liners and waste collection
•    Increased facilities work to manage waste and prevent blockages

Paper towel dispensers also require regular refilling, and messy washrooms can create a poor impression on customers.

Which is best for your business?

While using hand dryers may be the most cost-effective option for your business in the long-term, there are some other factors to consider when making your decision, such as:

Upfront vs. long-term costs

If you’re looking at initial costs, paper towels may seem cheaper. However, the long-term savings of hand dryers make them the more economical choice.

Washroom maintenance and hygiene

Hand dryers require minimal upkeep, while paper towels demand frequent restocking and bin emptying. Hand dryers also reduce waste and the risk of cross-contamination from used towels.

Customer experience

Some people prefer paper towels, particularly in quieter settings like offices or high-end restaurants. However, high-speed, low-noise hand dryers now offer a quick and comfortable drying experience.

Space and storage

Hand dryers take up very little space and eliminate the need for paper towel storage. If your washroom has limited room, a dryer is a more convenient option.

Accessibility and ease of use

Paper towels can be easier for those with limited mobility. However, modern hand dryers are designed with accessibility in mind, featuring motion sensors and lower noise levels.

Which is better for the environment - hand dryers or paper towels?

Sustainability is a key concern for businesses looking to reduce their carbon footprint. How does this impact the hand-drying methods of your washroom?

Paper towels require cutting down trees, large amounts of water and energy to produce, and create significant waste. Even recycled paper towels are single-use and end up in landfill. 

Hand dryers, meanwhile, use electricity, but the latest models are highly energy-efficient, with some consuming as little as 1p worth of electricity per use. Efficient, fast hand dryers take less time to dry hands, meaning they use less energy overall. They also eliminate paper waste entirely, helping you create a more eco-friendly washroom.

Cost-effective, efficient hand dryers from phs Warner Howard

While paper towels have their advantages, the long-term savings and environmental benefits of hand dryers make them the smarter choice for most businesses. By switching to energy-efficient dryers, you can cut costs, improve hygiene and support more eco-friendly washrooms —all while providing a clean and efficient washroom experience. 

If you’re interested in making the switch to paperless washrooms, then phs Warner Howard can help. We supply hand dryers and supporting products to help you create the ideal washroom environment, and benefit from the latest in hand drying technology. Explore our product range or contact us for more information.