Best Hand Soap Dispensers. Which Is Best For You?

Bathroom accessories that match and kitchen counters that are free of labels are two things you may have always admired. The coronavirus epidemic, on the other hand, may have made you wash your hands 15 times a day since you were so used to not washing them at all. Whatever the case may be, reusable pumps are a hot product right now, and we’re here to take advantage of that.

A wide variety of dispensers are available in a wide range of sizes, materials, and colors. Manual pumps can be found on some models, while others automatically dispense soap. To save counter space, you can also obtain a wall-mounted model.

For your convenience, we sent a tester home with 11 pump bottles of varied pricing points. After trying them out, she assigned each one a quality, durability, design, effectiveness, and overall value score between 1 and 5, and then narrowed it down to the top options we’re recommending here. 5 being the greatest; 1 being the worst.

Here are the greatest soap dispensers on the market right now, without further ado.

What to Consider When Choosing the Best Soap Dispenser

Take some time to familiarize yourself with the different types, materials, and functions of soap dispensers before making your final decision. There are a number of factors to consider while deciding on the ideal soap dispenser for your needs.

Type

Soap dispensers can be divided into pump and sensor/touchless dispensers, as well as wall-mounted, deck-mounted, and shower soap dispensers, depending on how they operate and where they are used.

• Simple and practical pump soap dispensers feature a well-known design. An air-vacuum effect occurs when the pump dispenser plunger is depressed, drawing in and dispensing soap through the spout’s opening. Simple parts make these dispensers low-cost and low-maintenance. Liquid soap can be poured into the dispenser by simply removing the cap.
• In order to use a sensor/touchless soap dispenser, you don’t have to put your hand on the soap dispenser itself. When it comes to preventing the spread of bacteria and viruses, this can be a crucial characteristic. However, these soap dispensers are more expensive than pump soap dispensers, and a power source, such as rechargeable or disposable batteries, is required to run the sensor and the automatic pump in these dispensers.
• The mounting hardware or adhesives needed to attach the soap dispenser to your wall are included with wall-mounted soap dispensers, saving you valuable counter space. It is possible to get wall-mounted soap dispensers that are suitable for use in a factory or warehouse, as well as smaller dispensers that are more appropriate for household usage.
• In order to mimic the look of a faucet, deck-mounted soap dispensers are designed to be installed directly into kitchen or bathroom worktops. If you’re looking to add a bit of sophistication to your bathroom, these soap dispensers are a great option. Brass, stainless steel, and brushed nickel are common metals used to construct deck-mounted soap dispensers.
• The majority of shower soap dispensers are made up of two or three soap dispensers that are attached to a wall. As a result, you won’t ever have to worry about dumping a hefty bottle of shampoo or conditioner on the floor of your shower again.

Material

Stainless steel, glass, and ABS plastic are the most frequent materials used in soap dispensers.

• Stainless steel is a durable material that can be used in any kitchen or bathroom to create a contemporary aesthetic. Because of its natural resistance to moisture, corrosion, and smearing, it is an excellent choice for a soap dispenser, and the smooth surface makes cleaning a breeze.
• The clear glass bottle lets you view the liquid or foam soap inside. Glass soap dispensers are more fragile and heavier than stainless steel or ABS plastic, but they won’t rust or corrode. Because of its proneness to breakage, glass is an unwise choice for homes with children.
• ABS plastic is a good choice for a soap dispenser since it is long-lasting, low-cost, and resistant to moisture damage. In comparison to stainless steel or glass, plastic is more difficult to keep clean and can become discoloured over time.

Capacity

Dispensers are measured by their capacity, which is the amount of soap they can contain when they are fully stocked. Small soap dispensers with a 5-ounce capacity are available, as are large soap dispensers with a 30-ounce capacity or more. The higher the capacity of the dispenser, the less frequently you’ll have to refill it, if you have a large family. If you’re a single person or a couple, a smaller soap dispenser is better because it takes up less counter, wall, or shower space.

Aesthetic

Consider the soap dispenser’s beauty in addition to its utilitarian aspects. In the end, if it doesn’t look good, you won’t want it on the counter. Soap dispensers come in a variety of styles and colors, so choose one that complements your home’s aesthetic.

Liquid Type

Foaming hand soap, liquid hand soap, dish soap, and other liquid personal cleansing items can all be dispensed from a soap dispenser.

• To get the best lather out of your foamy soap, you’ll need a specific foaming dispenser. As much as 16 percent of the water you need to wash your hands can be saved by using foaming soaps.
• Liquid soaps are available in a variety of types, including antibacterial soap, moisturizing soap, and scent-free soap that is necessary for anyone with scent sensitivities. If you like liquid soap, you’ll have a greater number of soap dispensers to choose from because most dispensers use liquid soap.
• Liquid dish soaps are among the most versatile liquid soaps on the market. Dish soap is a reasonable choice for a kitchen soap dispenser because liquid dish soap is required to effectively clean dishes by hand, even if it is not generally used in bathroom soap dispensers.
• To keep your hands soft and supple, try putting hand lotion in your soap dispenser. Place a soap dispenser containing hand lotion around the house, rather of just in the bathroom or kitchen, to make it more accessible.
• Shower products like shampoo, conditioner, and body soap can be stored in shower soap dispensers. These specialized dispensers feature one, two, or three dispenser containers in a single mounted frame, allowing you to use the shower product you need without waste or having to deal with multiple bottles precariously lining your shower shelf.

Sensor and Batteries

Shower soap dispensers can hold shampoo, conditioner, and body wash. These specialized dispensers feature one, two, or three dispenser containers in a single mounted frame, allowing you to use the shower product you need without waste or having to deal with multiple bottles precariously lining your shower shelf.

Dispensers in the shower can be used to store items like shampoo and conditioner. These specialty dispensers have one, two, or three dispenser containers in a single mounted frame, so you may utilize the shower product you need without wasting or having to deal with many bottles dangerously filling your shower shelf.

Ease of Use & Installation

Soap dispenser performance and setup difficulty can be affected by a wide range of parameters including dispenser stability, hand pump shape and texture, mounting options, and the soap refill process.

• To keep it from tipping over, soap dispensers often have a wide and substantial base as their foundation. Non-slip bases for dispensers are also available, so they won’t tumble from counters in the kitchen or bathroom when they get slippery.
• The ease and comfort with which a soap dispenser can be used can be influenced by the pump’s design and smoothness. Small, rigid plastic pumps that can only be operated with one finger or a thumb are more cumbersome to use.
• Soap dispensers come with a variety of mounting options, depending on the model you choose. Nails, screws, or adhesive can be used to attach the soap dispenser to the wall. You’ll have to follow the same steps as installing a new faucet to install deck-mounted dispensers, but shower soap dispensers typically come with an adhesive frame that’s quite simple to install.
• For the most part, soap dispenser refills are a piece of cake: Simply unscrew the cap and fill the dispenser with the new soap. Only a very little aperture at the top of the soap dispenser poses a serious problem. A funnel or a bigger bottom hole can be used to neatly refill the dispenser in this instance.

Reviews

Best Overall: Blomus Sono Soap Dispenser

What We’re Into

• Finishes with a modern matte look
• Colors in seven neutral hues
• Sturdy
• Rubber seal that is pushed down

What We Hate About It

• Pricey
• Dishwasher incompatibilities

It was evident that the Blomus Sono was the best product out of 11 that we tested, with a perfect 5 rating for quality, design, and functionality. Although it appears to be dishwasher safe, our tester found it to be more strong and heavier than it appears online. This soap dispenser has a great 4.8 out of 5 star rating for overall value.

Made of ceramic and composite, the Sono has a chic matte finish in your choice of seven neutral hues ranging from black to taupe to white. Instead of a twist-on design, the pump just pushes down and attaches with a rubber seal.

Made of ceramic and composite, the Sono has a chic matte finish in your choice of seven neutral hues ranging from black to taupe to white. Instead of a twist-on design, the pump just pushes down and attaches with a rubber seal.

Seven neutral shades range from black to taupe to white on the Sono’s matte ceramic and composite surface. It’s a gorgeous piece. A rubber seal holds the pump in place instead of a twist-on construction that many other pumps employ.

Best Budget: Umbra Step Liquid Soap Pump Dispenser

What We’re Into

• Budget-friendly
• Dishwasher-safe
• It resembles a ceramic glaze.

What We Hate About It

• That plastic-y sensation is definitely there.

The Umbra Step is an excellent option for those on a tight budget. For durability and effectiveness, our tester gave it a 5-star rating, with a 4-star rating for design, and a 4-star overall rating.

Despite its dazzling appearance, the melamine material feels like plastic, earning it a quality score of 3.5. This dishwasher-safe soap dispenser features a versatile design that isn’t too modern or too rustic for modern surroundings.

Measuring in at 6.9 by 3.34 inches, this pump is made of Melamine and has a manual pump. 13-ounce capacity

Best Splurge: Eddi Hand Soap Starter Set

What We’re Into

• The design is appealing to the eye.
• Design that is forward-thinking
• Bottles that can be returned for recycling

What We Hate About It

• Expensive

If you can afford Eddi’s hefty price tag, she’s your best bet. Because of its sturdy stainless steel and zinc alloy structure and sleek, minimalist-modern aesthetic, this forward-thinking soap dispenser received flawless rankings for quality, durability, effectiveness, and style.

Although it’s costly, our tester scored it a 4.5 out of 5 for overall value. Hand Soap Starter Set includes three recyclable metal bottles of detergent, so you don’t have to worry about cleaning them because the detergent doesn’t go inside the container in any way.

An 8-inch-by-2-inch-by-2.6-inch bottle with a capacity of 9.5 ounces of liquid.

Best for Kitchens: simplehuman Touch-Free Rechargeable Sensor Soap Dispenser

What We’re Into

• A bathroom’s design is sanitary
• Three-month battery life
• The battery can last for three months at a time

What We Hate About It

• Expensive
• When the battery expires, you can no longer pump manually.

Using the simplehuman Touch-Free Soap Dispenser, I received a 5 out of 5 for quality. It’s not dishwasher-safe (because of the lithium-ion battery), but it is waterproof, so cleaning it is a breeze.

The three-month battery life and stylish metal design earned this rechargeable soap dispenser a 4.2 overall score from our testers. Stainless steel goes well with most kitchen appliances, so it’s a good investment even though it’s pricey.

An automatic, stainless-steel pump with an 8-ounce capacity measures 6.8 by 4.4 by 2.8 inches and is made of stainless steel.

Best for Bathrooms: The Container Store 10 oz. Nomo Soap Pump

What We’re Into

• Budget-friendly
• Versatile and modern at the same time.

What We Hate About It

• Isolated to a single hue
• The twist-on grooves aren’t clearly visible.

The Nomo Soap Pump from The Container Store received a 5 out of 5 for effectiveness and 4s for quality, durability, and design, respectively. Despite its flaws, we scored it a 4.5 out of 5 for overall value because of its low price and versatile design.

A white ceramic body with a matte black plastic pump make it light and probably not dishwasher-safe (though the product description doesn’t mention it). As a result, it will go well with a wide range of bathroom design concepts.

Size: 6.8 x 2.83 inches; Material: Ceramic; Pump: Manual; Capacity: 10 ounces;

Best Ceramic: Crate & Barrel Marah White Ceramic Soap Dispenser

What We’re Into

• Budget-friendly
• The ability to hold a lot of information
• Hand-made

What We Hate About It

• Isolated to a single hue
• Dishwasher incompatibilities

This dispenser from Crate & Barrel received 5 stars from us because of its quality and efficacy. We gave it a 4.5 out of 5 for design and a 4 out of 5 for durability, noting that it’s sturdy but not dishwasher safe.

Overall, this ceramic soap pump was graded at a 4.5 because of its affordability and usefulness. Being handmade, it has that charmingly flawed charm that sets Crate & Barrel apart from the competition.

Dimensions: 7.7 x 3 in. | Ceramic material | Hand pump 14 ounces of storage space

Best Glass: Oggi Round Glass Soap Dispenser

What We’re Into

• There are three different hues to choose from.
• Glass that is thick and stout
• The hand-blown look

What We Hate About It

• Dishwasher incompatibilities

Oggi Glass Soap Dispenser received a perfect score of 5, a 4.5 quality rating, and a 4 for both durability and design. In terms of overall value, our tester gave it a 4.3 out of 5 stars, pointing out that it’s much more substantial and heavy than it appears online.

This soap dispenser, despite its thick glass, cannot be washed in the dishwasher. We appreciate the presence of a few little bubbles in the glass, which lends the piece a uniquely hand-blown aspect.

7 x 3 inches in size, made of glass, with a manual pump and a 10 ounce capacity.

Best Farmhouse: Jarmazing Products Mason Jar Soap Dispenser

What We’re Into

• The ability to hold a lot of information
• Mason jars from a well-known brand
• The silicone gasket is watertight.

What We Hate About It

• Nothing

This soap dispenser by Jarmazing is perfect for those with a rustic or industrial aesthetic in their home. Efficacy was given a 5; design and quality/durability were both given 4s.

4.2 out of 5 stars for overall value were awarded to this dispenser by our lab rat due to its big storage capacity, low cost, watertight silicone gasket, and dishwasher-safe container. Mason jars are a well-known brand and the matte black pump gives it a modern farmhouse feel.

Dimensions: 9 x 3.5 in. | Material: Glass | Pump: Manual | Color: Black A 16-ounce capacity

With a score of 4.8 out of 5, our testers found that the Blomus Sono (view at Amazon) was the finest pick. As an alternative, we recommend the melamine Umbra Step Liquid Soap Pump Dispenser (see at Amazon), which scored 4.2 out of 5 on Amazon.

How We Tested the Soap Dispensers

Each of the 11 soap dispensers we delivered to our tester was utilized in her kitchen and bathroom for at least a few days over the course of two weeks. On the basis of quality, durability, design and efficacy as well as the total value, she rated each of them. This ranking is the result of a combination of our editors’ independent research and their observations.

What to Look for in a Soap Dispenser

Size

Consider the size of the soap dispensers you’re looking at. Most options will fit on your counter just fine, but double-check the dimensions if you’re going to put it on a shelf, windowsill, or any other small ledge.

In addition, the capacity of a bottle varies. For example, some soaps hold 16 ounces while others hold far less. A smaller bottle is OK if you don’t mind having to refill it more frequently. But if it becomes a problem, you may want to go with a larger storage option.

Material

Another thing to keep in mind is the content. Glass, plastic, melamine, resin, ceramic, stainless steel, or recyclable items can be used to make soap dispensers. It’s a matter of personal preference, but resin, melamine, metal, and plastic are less prone to breaking than other materials. Some materials are more recyclable than others depending on where you reside.

Pump

It’s not just about automobiles when it comes to choosing between manual and automatic. To pump soap into the other hand you utilize your free arm; most dispensers are manual in design. Automatic soap dispensers are more hygienic than manual ones in high-traffic areas, although manual soap dispensers are appropriate for most places.

The Best Soap Dispensers for the Bathroom or Kitchen

mDesign Square Glass Refillable Liquid Soap Dispense

mDesign’s 14-ounce soap dispenser may be filled with soap, while the other 14-ounce dispenser can be filled with lotion, ensuring that your hands are both clean and moisturized at the same time. You could even divide the two, creating a new pump soap dispenser for each bathroom, or use them in both the bathroom and the kitchen at the same time. You may simply open the wide-mouth top and add more liquid soap to these dispensers.

The similar soap dispensers include a square glass body and a chrome dispenser head. Hand soap, dish soap, hand sanitizer, hand lotion, and even essential oils can all be used to make these dispensers. In smaller bathrooms, such as half-baths, powder rooms, and guest bathrooms where space is at a premium, the dispensers are excellent.

Cutiset 3 Pack Assorted Glass 15 Ounce Dispenser

This set of three pump soap dispensers by Cutiset completes the bathroom or kitchen in your home. There are a wide variety of liquids that can be stored in these affordable dispensers, such as dish soap and moisturizer. It’s easy to restock: just remove the lids from the dispensers and pour in the new liquid.

15 oz. of liquid soap or lotion can be stored in the glass dispensers, which are each decorated with a dimpled pattern for visual appeal. The glass is decorated in neutral tones to match your home’s decor, and the plastic soap pump has a chrome overlay that is both corrosion-resistant and appealing.

Casabella Sink Sider Duo with Sponge

Consider the Casabella Sink Sider Duo soap dispenser if you require a dispenser for two liquids, such as dish soap and hand soap. Each of the soap dispensers in this product can hold 14.5oz, while the other has an 11oz capacity. To keep your kitchen sink or counter clean and organized, it gives a place to keep your sponge or towel.

The pump’s wide form makes it simple to operate with only one hand and doesn’t necessitate a lot of force. To clean the dispenser, all you have to do is pull the tab and the bottom will pop right out. It’s easy to take off, so a hot water wash is all you need to do. Refilling this soap dispenser, on the other hand, is more difficult due to the lid’s tight fit. A technique that develops with practice is lifting the lid off the base by pulling it back at an angle.

OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel Soap Dispenser

It’s convenient to have OXO’s pump soap dispenser beside your kitchen sink so you don’t have to deal with a plastic bottle of dish soap. Since it has a non-slip base, you may use this dispenser to wash dishes at the kitchen sink without worrying about it sliding around.

The elegant surface of the stainless steel design is protected from oily smudges thanks to a fingerprint-proof coating. There is also an easy-to-use and comfortable-to-hold pump button on this device. With a 12-ounce capacity, the dispenser can be used for dish soap, hand soap, and hand lotion. If you want to use a foamy soap or a sanitizer, you won’t be happy with this.

SKEY Automatic Soap Dispenser

Foamy soap dispensers are necessary if you prefer the feel or water-efficiency of foaming soap. Powered by four AA batteries, this SKEY foamy soap dispenser incorporates a hands-free infrared sensor. A sophisticated sensor detects your hand within two inches and instantly releases soap, so you don’t have to touch the dispenser at all. When people use the same item, they are less likely to be exposed to bacteria and viruses from one another.

To activate the sensor soap dispenser, press the button on the top of the dispenser. Its capacity is 11.8 ounces. There is an on/off switch in order to conserve battery power so that the dispenser does not run out of juice all the time. A power saving feature turns the dispenser off if it does not identify your hand. Durable ABS and polypropylene plastics make up the dispenser, which is very lightweight.

Better Living Products AVIVA Three-Chamber Dispenser

Get rid of the shower bottle clutter by filling this three-chamber dispenser from Better Living Products with body wash, shampoo, and conditioner. An easy-to-use push-button pump on the front of every chamber completes the dispenser’s swanky, curved aesthetic. Between the dispenser chambers, you’ll find hooks for storing washcloths, loofahs, and razors.

Durable ABS plastic is used to construct the soap dispenser’s exterior casing. Each chamber can hold up to 11 ounces of your favorite shower product, and the integrated wall mount makes it simple to clean and refill the chambers. It’s important to keep in mind, however, that the wall mount cannot be readily removed because of its waterproof silicone adhesive and two-way tape.

simplehuman 9 oz. Touch-Free Rechargeable Dispenser

You won’t have to worry about the spread of germs or viruses between users thanks to the simplehuman soap dispenser, which is fully touchless. For liquid goods like hand lotion or hand sanitizer, it has a capacity of 9 ounces. Refilling the dispenser is as simple as lifting the top and pouring soap in. In order to customize the amount of soap discharged when the sensor is triggered, this soap dispenser has an integrated soap volume control mechanism.

With the provided charging wire, you may recharge the dispenser’s battery. The soap dispenser’s battery lasts up to three months on a full charge when it is fully charged. Soap flow is precise and steady thanks to a clog-free tubing pipe and a flexible silicone valve that closes quickly after distributing soap to avoid unpleasant drips.

JASAI 18 Oz Clear Glass Soap Dispenser

Although glass soap dispensers are heftier and more delicate than metal or plastic dispensers, they look fantastic with a variety of home decor types thanks to their simple design aesthetic. JASAI’s stainless steel soap dispenser has an 18-ounce capacity with a stainless steel push pump, guaranteeing that it will not rust or corrode.

Additionally, you may personalize the dispenser by adding a witty message or affirmation to the dispenser’s blank wooden tag. To restock the dispenser, simply remove the pump and add any liquid of a comparable consistency, such as hand soap, dish soap, hand lotion, body wash, or hand sanitizer. You may require a funnel if the hole isn’t large enough for the liquid to be poured precisely.

Relaxdays Bath Accessory 4-Piece Set, Bamboo

For those who like a more traditional look in their homes, bamboo is an excellent choice. Besides the pump soap dispenser, the set also contains an extra container for a lotion bottle or a small hairbrush or comb, and a tray to carry it all. It’s made of bamboo. Simply unscrew the pump and pour the liquid soap into its aperture to refill the dispenser’s capacity of 8.1oz.

Additionally, the dispenser has a chrome-colored, plastic pump that matches the stainless steel top on the toothbrush holder, and the tray takes up just 4 by 10 inches of counter space, allowing you to put this set on your bathroom counter or even on your bathroom counter behind the toilet. While the soap dispenser, toothbrush holder, and additional container can all be used independently around the house, the set looks best when it is presented on the tray as a whole.

FAQ

How do you clean a soap dispenser?

Soap dispensers can be cleaned in the dishwasher, however it depends on the brand and the type of material they are made from. By hand, using warm soapy water and then washing it clean, you can wash yours if it isn’t dishwasher safe.

As you run the pump component under warm water in the sink, pump it to flush off any soap residue. A little distilled white vinegar can also be used to loosen any accumulated residues. You can use the same cleaner you use to clean your counters to wipe down the container’s exterior between thorough cleanings.

How often should you clean a soap dispenser?

It is possible to clean the outside of your soap dispenser on a daily basis due to the high frequency with which people touch the pump. You can use the same disinfecting wipes or an all-purpose spray that you use to clean your counters.

There isn’t a lot of cleaning required on the interior. Like a shampoo bottle, it’s fine to use up the contents without cleaning the inside. However, you should clean it thoroughly before refilling it. Additionally, cleansing the pump may be beneficial if it is acting up.

Can a soap dispenser be used for hand sanitizer?

The answer is yes, but only if it is specifically made for use with a soap dispenser. Soap and alcohol-based liquids may be stored in the same container, therefore check for goods that explicitly mention this.

Do you need a special dispenser for foaming soap?

Yes. If you want to dispense foaming soap, you will need a foaming soap dispenser like the SKEY Automatic Soap Dispenser.

What is the best hands-free soap dispenser?

The simplehuman 9 oz. Touch-Free Rechargeable Soap Pump is one of the greatest hands-free soap dispensers available for the typical individual, but what works best for one person may not work for another.

Why does my soap dispenser not work?

Two common issues with soap dispensers include congealed soap clogging the tube or the pump mechanism breaking. Remove the tube from the dispenser and wash it with warm water to dilute the congealed soap and remove the clog. To fix a malfunctioning soap dispenser, you will need to remove the old spring and replace it with a new one.