Dispensers or Bottles: Reshaping Hotel Room Amenities

Hotel room amenities are undergoing a significant transformation in the hospitality industry. The shift from single-use toiletry bottles to bulk dispensers is reshaping how hotels provide essential bathroom products to their guests. Many major chains are moving away from individual mini bottles of shampoo, conditioner, and body wash in favor of larger, refillable dispensers mounted on shower walls. This change is being driven by environmental concerns over plastic waste as well as potential cost savings for hotels. However, the switch to bulk dispensers remains controversial among some travelers and industry experts.

Environmental Impact

The primary argument in favor of bulk dispensers is reducing plastic waste. A typical 200-room hotel generates over 20,000 small plastic bottles of amenities per month. By switching to refillable dispensers, hotels can significantly cut down on this plastic usage. Marriott International estimates their move to larger bottles will eliminate 500 million small plastic bottles annually across their properties.

However, critics argue that the environmental benefits are overstated. The large refillable dispensers are still made of plastic, just in larger quantities. There are also concerns about increased water and energy usage to clean and refill the dispensers. Some suggest compostable or recyclable packaging for individual amenities could be a better solution.

Guest Experience

Hotels claim that bulk dispensers allow them to offer higher quality products in larger quantities. Many travelers appreciate not having to ration out tiny bottles during longer stays. The dispensers are also more convenient for families sharing a bathroom.

On the other hand, some guests have hygiene concerns about shared dispensers. There are worries about tampering, contamination, or improper cleaning between guests. The dispensers can also be difficult for some guests to use, especially those with mobility issues or visual impairments. Many travelers simply prefer the luxury feel of individual branded toiletries.

Cost Considerations

For hotels, bulk dispensers offer potential cost savings on both product and labor. Less staff time is required to replace individual bottles daily. Buying products in bulk is generally cheaper than individual packaging as well.

However, there are upfront costs to install wall-mounted dispensers in every bathroom. Ongoing maintenance and cleaning of the dispensers is also required. Some hotels have found refilling dispensers to be more time-consuming than expected for housekeeping staff.

Future Trends in Hotel Room Amenities

As the hospitality industry continues to evolve, we can expect to see further innovations in hotel room amenities. Some emerging trends include:

1. Smart dispensers: These high-tech solutions can track usage, alert staff when refills are needed, and even personalize product selection based on guest preferences.
2. Eco-friendly formulations: Hotels are increasingly partnering with brands that offer organic, natural, or locally-sourced products to appeal to environmentally conscious travelers.
3. Customizable amenities: Some hotels are experimenting with allowing guests to choose their preferred toiletries before arrival, ensuring a more personalized experience.
4. Waterless products: To further reduce plastic waste and water consumption, some hotels are exploring solid shampoo bars, conditioning bars, and other waterless toiletry options.
5. Amenity kits: Instead of permanent fixtures, some hotels are providing guests with reusable toiletry bags filled with eco-friendly miniatures, combining the convenience of individual products with a more sustainable approach.

These innovations demonstrate that the debate over hotel room amenities extends beyond just bulk dispensers versus single-use bottles. The future of hotel toiletries will likely involve a combination of approaches, tailored to each property’s unique needs and guest expectations.”

The Verdict

The debate over bulk dispensers versus individual bottles ultimately comes down to balancing environmental goals, guest preferences, and hotel operations. There’s no clear consensus yet on the best approach. Many hotels are testing both options or taking a hybrid approach.

As the industry continues to evolve, the ideal solution may involve new innovations in packaging and product delivery. Compostable materials, concentrated formulas, and smart dispensing systems could address concerns on all sides. Hotels will need to carefully consider their specific guest demographics and brand positioning when deciding on amenity strategies.

Ultimately, providing a positive guest experience while operating sustainably will require ongoing dialogue between hotels, travelers, and product suppliers. The bathroom amenities debate highlights the complex challenges of greening the hospitality industry.

Related resources

https://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/hotels/2019/11/22/plastic-waste-problem-hotel-shampoo-bottles-chopping-block/4239121002

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2666957923000058

https://www.hotelmanagement-network.com/features/single-use-plastic-toiletries-hotels/?cf-view