Are Air Dryers Really Better Than Eco Paper Towels?

Despite the popularity of air dryers in public and commercial bathrooms, eco-friendly paper towels are becoming the preferred choice for many professionals overseeing high-traffic facilities.

So what’s driving this shift? In this blog, we unpack the practical, environmental, and hygiene-related reasons why eco paper towels are gaining ground over electric dryers in workplaces, schools, and commercial buildings.

Hygiene: The Top Priority in Commercial Bathrooms

Studies have shown that air dryers (particularly old ones) can disperse bacteria into the air and around the washroom, especially in enclosed or poorly ventilated spaces. In contrast, paper towels trap and remove moisture and bacteria effectively, reducing the risk of surface contamination.

This is particularly important in high-traffic settings where hygiene is paramount—such as hospitals, schools, and shared office bathrooms.

Speed and Efficiency in High-Use Areas

Time matters, especially in busy restrooms. While air dryers can take 30–45 seconds to dry hands, users typically need only 10–15 seconds with paper towels. This leads to:

• Faster bathroom turnover

• Less queuing and congestion

• Improved user experience

• More people actually drying their hands

Sustainability Without Sacrificing Performance

While traditional paper towels were known for being wasteful, modern eco-friendly alternatives are a different story. At Insinc Products, we offer commercial-grade paper towels made from recycled materials and certified by Environmental Choice NZ.

Eco towels provide the drying power facilities need, with a much smaller environmental footprint. They are:

• Made from post-consumer recycled fibre

• Compostable or recyclable depending on use

• Often more economical in the long term when usage is controlled

Maintenance and Cost Considerations

While air dryers may seem like a one-time investment, they come with:

• 

  Ongoing power consumption

• Regular maintenance or filter changes

• Repair costs

Paper towels, on the other hand:

• Require no power

• Are easy to refill and stock

• Fit into existing dispenser systems

When bought in bulk, Insinc’s eco paper towels offer cost stability and low maintenance, ideal for budget-conscious facilities.

What About Waste?

The key concern is managing towel disposal. With the right bin systems and waste provider, some used paper towels can be composted or sent to paper recycling facilities, depending on local infrastructure.

Further Reading

Curious about the exact paper towel types suited to your dispenser setup?
Read our guide on towel formats and compatibility

FAQ

Q: Are paper towels more hygienic than air dryers?
A: Yes. Numerous studies confirm paper towels reduce bacteria on hands and minimise airborne germs.

Q: Is there a sustainable way to dispose of used towels?
A: Yes—some NZ waste companies offer composting or recycling options for used paper towels.

Q: Can eco paper towels keep up in busy commercial bathrooms?
A: Absolutely. Insinc’s commercial-grade options are designed for durability and fast absorbency.

Summary

While air dryers may seem modern and efficient, eco paper towels are increasingly favoured for their hygiene, efficiency, and sustainability advantages. At Insinc Products, we help New Zealand workplaces make the switch without compromising on performance or eco values. At Insinc Products, we help New Zealand workplaces make the switch without compromising on performance or sustainability.