Hand Dryers vs Paper Towels in 2025

When it comes to equipping commercial and public restrooms, one question comes up again and again: Are hand dryers really better or more sanitary than paper towels? The short answer is a resounding Yes! But let’s break it down properly. It’s not just about saving money or going green. Today’s high-speed hand dryers are designed to solve real problems in commercial and public restrooms—problems paper towels only make worse. If you're still undecided or need help finding the right hand dryer for your facility, we're here to help. Contact us at 1-800-710-6255.

Paper Towels Carry Hidden Costs and Risks

On the surface, paper towels seem quick and simple. But, although they're the best hand drying option for homes, they quickly become costly, wasteful, and high-maintenance in commercial and public restrooms.

 

1. Overflowing Trash, Clogged Toilets

In high-traffic facilities, like stadiums, schools, gyms, offices, and restaurants, paper towels don’t just end up in bins. They’re jammed into toilets, sinks, vents, and floor corners. The result?

    • Plumbing backups

    • Unsanitary, messy restroom experiences that drive customers away

2. Bacterial Contamination

Even unused paper towels can harbor germs. Stored in dispensers exposed to flushing toilets, air circulation systems, and general restroom traffic, they become prime landing zones for airborne pathogens, including those from fecal matter.

3. Ongoing Supply and Labor Costs

With paper, you’re locked into a perpetual cycle of reordering, restocking, and refilling. It’s not just wasteful — it’s operational drag.

Hand Dryers Are The Smarter, Cheaper Option

Today's high-speed, commercial hand dryers have evolved to address the unique sanitary needs of businesses and organizations. Modern high-speed models are designed with performance, hygiene, and efficiency in mind — i.e., a far cry from the loud, slow hand drying machines of the past. For businesses and organizations, this translates into a better facility experience and greater operational savings.

 

1. Annual Operating Cost:
  • Hand Dryers - $40-$150
  • Paper Towels - $900+ 

The average cost of a high-speed hand dryer is approximately $400-$700, and it costs $40-$150 per year to operate. For comparison, the average paper towel system costs ~$900+ per year in restocking alone, not including labor and plumbing costs for repairs.

2. Commercial Hand Dryers Are Customer-Friendly & More Sanitary
  • Fast Drying Times: Typically in 10-15 seconds or less.
  • Touchless Operation: No need for physical contact reduces the spread of germs.
  • HEPA Filters: To remove up to 99.97% of bacteria and particles from the air.
  • Environmentally Friendly: Reduces paper waste, supporting sustainability goals.
  • Low Maintenance: No restocking or trash disposal—freeing up staff time and cutting costs.