Paper Towels vs Hand Dryers: A Quieter, Kinder Choice for Public Washrooms
Public washrooms are meant to be clean and convenient — but a recent study from Canada highlights how they can be alarming for noise-sensitive users. In May 2025, 13‑year‑old twins Leo and Sammy Marcus measured the decibel levels of nearly 300 devices — including automatic hand dryers, paper towel dispensers, and flush systems — across public facilities in their local community.
Shockingly, most of the washroom noise levels exceeded Canada’s (and Australia's) safety limit of 85 dB, with some even reaching levels that would require hearing protection.
While their project was local, their findings reflect a much broader issue: 👉 Many common hand dryers in use today, including in Australia and New Zealand, also exceed 85 decibels, often landing well above safe occupational noise thresholds — especially in tiled, enclosed washroom environments.
Why Autotowel Paper Towel Dispensers Stand Out
Enter the Autotowel Touch‑Free Paper Towel Dispenser — a smart, low-noise, and more hygienic alternative designed to reduce washroom noise and enhance comfort for all users.
Here’s why it makes a difference:
Low-noise operation: No roaring motors — just a calm, touch‑free release of paper.
Touchless & hygienic: Sensor ensures no shared contact points. Waste-smart dispensing: Sheet control and delay settings reduce waste by up to 40%, and the stub-roll feature cuts a further 20%. Sustainable choice: Uses FSC-certified high-density rolls and compact packaging to reduce freight impact. Inclusive design: Sensor and sheet length are adjustable, making it suitable for all workplaces.By contrast, even high-end dryers often reach or exceed 85 dB, creating a stressful and uncomfortable experience for many users — particularly those with sensory sensitivities, like Sammy, who has a sensory processing disorder.
Designing Washrooms with Everyone in Mind
Leo and Sammy’s Royal Flush Project has already won awards, but it also raises important questions for planners, architects, and facility managers worldwide: Are we considering the noise factor in our washroom design?
Switching to quiet, efficient paper towel systems like the Autotowel offers multiple benefits:
✅ Quieter environment
✅ Better for sensory‑sensitive individuals
✅ More hygienic hand drying
✅ Reduced waste & carbon footprint
Ready to upgrade?
Explore the benefits of the Autotowel here: