Foam Soap or Liquid Soap? Understanding the Benefits for Your Business

In today's world of heightened health consciousness, the importance of hand hygiene has been well documented, especially in business settings and publicly accessible spaces. But with various options available, choosing the right soap for your staff and visitors’ restrooms could bubble up into quite a quandary.
As a leader in hygiene solutions, phs Direct offers a range of products designed to meet diverse needs, including foam and liquid soaps. In this blog, we’ll explore the main features and benefits of one of the most innovative hygiene products on offer – foam soap – as well its key differences to liquid hand soap.

What is foam soap?

Foam soap is a type of hand soap that comes pre-lathered. It's dispensed from a special soap dispenser that mixes the soap with air and water, creating a foamy texture. This light and airy form is not only gentle on the skin but also provides an effective cleaning experience. Foam soap is often considered more luxurious and can enhance the handwashing experience.

Where is foam soap used?

Foam soap is popular in a variety of settings, including high-traffic areas like restaurants, healthcare facilities, and office restrooms. Its ease of use makes it a preferred choice in environments where quick and efficient handwashing is necessary. The pre-lathered form means less soap is needed per wash, making it a cost-effective and environmentally friendly option.

The differences between foam and liquid soap

Liquid soap, the more traditional option, is a viscous hand cleaning solution. It's dispensed in a liquid form and requires lathering with water. When comparing foam hand soap and hand liquid soap, several factors stand out:
- Dispensing method and ease of use: Foam soap dispensers deliver a pre-lathered product, reducing the time and water needed to wash hands effectively. Dispensers are also very easy to operate – requiring very minimal pressure to release the product. This makes them a more accessible option for more vulnerable users, such as children, as well as the elderly and disabled people. Liquid soap dispensers, on the other hand, require more effort – not only in terms of the pressure required, but also to lather and rinse due to the products viscosity.
- Volume and consumption rate: Foam soap can be more economical as it dispenses in a controlled amount, leading to less waste. Liquid soap can be overused, especially in manual dispensers.
- Hygiene benefits: With foam soap, users are less likely to come in contact with the dispenser due to the minimal dispensing effort needed, reducing the risk of cross-contamination. The pre-lathered form also encourages thorough handwashing. - Environmental Impact: Foam soap's efficiency means less soap is used per wash, potentially reducing the overall environmental footprint. Liquid soap often requires more water to rinse off, which can increase water usage.

Advantages of foam soap for businesses

When it comes to selecting hand hygiene products for a business, foam soap stands out for several compelling reasons, making it an advantageous choice:

1. Cost-effectiveness and reduced consumption: One of the most significant benefits of foam soap is its cost-effectiveness. Due to its pre-lathered state, foam soap ensures controlled usage, meaning that each pump dispenses a consistent amount. This consistency not only reduces waste but also means that foam soap containers need refilling less frequently compared to liquid soap. Over time, this can lead to considerable savings in terms of both product costs and labour associated with refilling dispensers.
2. Improved hygiene and safety: Foam soap is inherently more hygienic compared to traditional liquid soap. Since it's dispensed in a lathered form, users are more likely to cover their hands completely, leading to a more thorough cleaning. This can be particularly important in settings where hygiene is paramount, such as healthcare facilities, schools, and food service establishments. Additionally, foam soap dispensers typically require less contact, reducing the spread of germs and bacteria through touch.
3. Environmental sustainability: Foam soap contributes to environmental sustainability efforts in several ways. It often requires less water to rinse off, which can significantly reduce water usage in high-traffic restrooms. Additionally, because foam soap dispensers release less soap per use, they decrease the total amount of soap consumed and the frequency of refills, thus reducing the environmental impact associated with manufacturing and transporting these products.
4. User satisfaction and experience: Foam soap is generally preferred by users for its luxurious feel and ease of use. It is also a lighter, kinder product for delicate skin. The pre-lathered foam is gentler, which can be particularly beneficial in environments where frequent handwashing is required, like hospitals and schools. This enhanced user experience can contribute positively to a business's overall environment, making facilities seem more upscale and considerate of user comfort.
5. Efficiency in maintenance and refilling: Foam soap dispensers are designed for easy maintenance and refilling. This streamlined process can be a significant time-saver for staff, allowing them to focus on other tasks. Moreover, the longer intervals between refills mean fewer disruptions and a more efficient use of resources.
6. Wide range of options: Businesses have a wide range of options when it comes to selecting foam soap, including various scents, formulations, and brands. This variety allows businesses to choose products that best fit their specific needs and preferences, whether it's a soap with moisturising properties for delicate skin or a robust formula for heavy-duty cleaning.

phs Direct: your foam soap solution

For businesses looking to enhance their hygiene practices, phs Direct is the go-to source for foam soap solutions. Offering a wide range of foam soap options, phs Direct caters to various preferences and needs. Our foam hand soaps offer quality and effectiveness, ensuring a pleasant and hygienic handwashing experience for your employees, clients and customers. Additionally, at phs Direct we provide excellent customer service and reliability, making phs Direct an ideal partner for all your hygiene needs.

Lather up and experience the difference

Choosing the right soap for your business is crucial in promoting good hand hygiene and creating a positive impression. While both foam and liquid soaps have their merits, foam soap stands out for its efficiency, hygiene benefits, and user preference. For further support with high-quality hand hygiene options for tailored to your business needs, get in touch with phs Direct today.