Refillable Dispensers vs. Single-Use Toiletries: What’s Best for Your Brand?

In today’s hospitality landscape, even the smallest details—like the toiletries in your guest bathrooms—can have a big impact on your brand. Hotel owners and managers are increasingly faced with a choice: stick with traditional single-use amenities or shift to refillable dispensers?

At Eston Amenities, we’ve worked with hotels across the spectrum—from boutique getaways to international chains—and we’ve seen the pros and cons of both approaches. Here’s a breakdown to help you choose what’s right for your brand.

Single-Use Toiletries: The Classic Guest Favorite

Pros:

✅ Luxury Perception: Individually packaged items often feel more premium and personalized. They give guests the sense that everything is just for them.

✅ Hygienic Appeal: Especially in the post-pandemic era, guests may feel more secure using toiletries that are factory-sealed and untouched.

✅ Custom Branding: Custom-printed mini bottles help reinforce your brand image and add a high-end feel to the bathroom.

Cons:

❌ Environmental Impact: Single-use plastics contribute significantly to landfill waste and marine pollution.

❌ Higher Ongoing Costs: While the upfront cost per guest may seem small, it adds up—especially for high-occupancy hotels.

❌ Restocking Challenges: Housekeeping has to constantly replenish rooms, which can increase labor hours.

Refillable Dispensers: The Sustainable Choice

Pros:

✅ Eco-Friendly: Greatly reduces plastic waste and aligns your hotel with sustainability values—a major decision factor for eco-conscious travelers.

✅ Cost-Effective Over Time: Though initial setup costs may be higher, dispensers reduce long-term expense on packaging and shipping.

✅ Sleek & Modern: Today’s dispenser designs are elegant, tamper-proof, and can be branded to match your aesthetic.

Cons:

❌ Guest Perception: Some guests may perceive dispensers as less hygienic or too “budget.” Education and branding help bridge this gap.

❌ Maintenance Required: Dispensers must be cleaned and refilled regularly to ensure hygiene and functionality.

❌ Installation Needed: There is a one-time installation process, which may be a challenge for existing properties.