I never imagined there would be so much to consider or so much to write about as I conducted research for my just posted article on amenity dispensers. The story just kept growing and growing. I finally stopped at about 2,200 words but I could have gone on much longer. There were so many unanswered questions. I strongly recommend reading the article. Be sure to let me know what you think. (Click here for article.)
What was never in doubt during my research was the positive environmental and economic impact of dispensers. That will always be clear. The issue of hygiene became a bit confusing for me. What I mean is whether or not dispensers present any sort of hygiene risk. One vendor presented evidence that stated that any harmful bacteria that makes its way into the shower liquids would be eliminated by the preservatives within the liquids. In response to that, another vendor questioned whether truly natural liquids would have that same affect or whether or not you, as green hoteliers, should be including bacteria-killing ingredients in liquids your guests wash with.
Another vendor advocated the use of cartridge-based dispensers as a more hygienic alternative to dispensers that are filled by the pouring of bulk liquids. Using cartridges is supposed to help address hygiene-related concerns involving the liquid inside the dispenser and any bacteria, mold, etc. that may grow on the dispenser’s exterior or surroundings. The cartridge advocate could not provide proof that cartridges are indeed a more hygienic alternative. Certainly one of your concerns, however, should be how your housekeepers clean the dispensers and what they clean them with (hopefully with a natural cleaner). And, if you do opt for cartridges, be sure to have a recycling plan in place for them because they can be recycled.
Payola for the Plastic?
One vendor explained the cozy relationship amenity companies have with the large franchise chains—a business model that has the chains profiting from the sale of plastic amenity bottles. Not exactly an incentive to give up on the little plastic containers, is it?
Vendors shared strong opinions on whether translucent or non-translucent dispensers are the best option. Translucent models certainly require more housekeeper attention.
One reader wrote to say he pulled dispensers from his hotel because “there is no [guest] trust that what the units say on them is the same product as what is actually in them.” He also said many guests still like the portability of the small bottles. In regard to trust, I suspect most guests do trust what is in the dispensers. I am not surprised that many guests still prefer the small bottles but also believe that most get the environmental message of dispensers. In addition to the skeptical hotelier, I heard from several people who were very happy with their dispensers.
Thumbs Up for Dispenser Design
Concern about dispenser design persists but it should not given the many styles and options currently available. Owners of upscale hotels just might be pleasantly surprised at the look of many of today’s dispensers. Perhaps dispenser suppliers are not doing a good enough job telling their story?
Dispensers certainly have a long way to go before they are even close to being in a majority of U.S. hotel guestrooms. If you are considering dispensers, ask suppliers for samples and test them in a handful of your guestrooms. Monitor guest feedback. Tally the savings. Ask your housekeepers whether or not it makes their jobs easier. If you are hesitant to commit to 100 percent dispensers right away throughout the guestroom, start with just the shower and still offer a bar of hand soap and possibly a bottled lotion (or conditioner) at the vanity.
Continue to let me know how your dispensers are working for you, or what is stopping you from using them. I will be sure to share your comments here.
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