The majority of the population brushes, flosses, and rinses their teeth at home – but rarely at work. This pattern of personal hygiene is a part of our routine wellbeing, and should also form a part of our daily activities at work. Incorporating workplace mouthwash dispensers should play a key component in an employer’s health and wellness program, as it shows a sign of commitment to the healthcare of its workers.

In this article, we’ll explain the importance of oral hygiene in the workplace, and in particular, how to choose a mouthwash dispenser for your workplace. We’ll also address some best practices for workplace oral hygiene.

Why Should Workplaces Consider Having a Mouthwash Dispenser?

Installing a workplace mouthwash dispenser represents the employer’s care and commitment to their employees. Any business that aspires to ensure the well-being of its employees will invest in a high-quality and user friendly mouthwash dispenser for employee satisfaction. By doing so, this will be interpreted positively by employees and help create a pleasant and caring work environment.

Potential Benefits for Employees and the Workplace Environment

There are a number of benefits to using a workplace mouthwash dispenser. This investment in oral hygiene can have a positive effect on both employee confidence, improved appearance, and job satisfaction. Greater personal confidence can translate into a more professional demeanor and rewarding interactions with colleagues. Employees who feel better about their oral health are likely to feel better about their work. This boosts employee engagement, loyalty, and morale, leading to a culture of happier employees.

The Different Types of Mouthwash Dispensers and the Advantages and Disadvantages of Each Type

Considering the different types of mouthwash dispensers is essential for businesses seeking to enhance oral hygiene in the workplace. There are a number of mouthwash dispenser options available, each catering to specific preferences, practicalities, and office settings. 

• Manual Pump Dispenser: The manual pump dispenser is a simple and cost-effective mouthwash dispenser ideal for smaller offices. Users manually pump the desired amount of mouthwash into a cup or directly into their mouths. 
• Touchless or Automatic Dispensers: Using sensor technology, touchless or automatic mouthwash dispensers release a predetermined amount of mouthwash without the need for physical contact. This promotes good hygiene by minimizing the risk of cross-contamination.
• Wall-Mounted Dispensers: Wall-mounted dispensers are both space-efficient and convenient due to the fact that they can be installed in common areas, restrooms, or break rooms. As a user-friendly mouthwash dispenser, they facilitate ease of use and accessibility for all employees.
• Countertop Dispensers: Countertop dispensers are portable and easy to refill, making them ideal for smaller offices or areas where wall installation is not possible.
• Customizable or Branded Dispensers: Customizable workplace hygiene offers businesses the choice to customize mouthwash dispensers with their logo or brand colors. Branding with mouthwash dispensers has the potential to reinforce corporate identity and contribute to a cohesive workplace aesthetic.
• Disposable Cup Dispensers: Disposable cup dispensers are convenient for employees who prefer a one-time use without the need for shared cups.
• Fluoride or Medicated Mouthwash Dispensers: For workplaces with employees who have specific health considerations, dispensers offering fluoride or medicated mouthwash options can cater to different oral care needs.

Size, Capacity, and Refilling Frequency 

When selecting a mouthwash dispenser for the workplace, it’s essential to consider the size of the workplace, the capacity of the mouthwash dispenser required, and the frequency of refilling. 

• Size: Think about how much space you will have to allocate for the dispenser. For example, the size of the countertops, wall spaces, etc. Smaller offices will benefit from a more compact design whereas larger workplaces might benefit from multiple dispensers which can be positioned in high-traffic areas.
• Capacity: Capacity refers to the volume of mouthwash the dispenser can hold at one time. Determining the capacity will depend on the size of the workforce as well as the expected usage frequency. A higher capacity could be more suitable for high-traffic areas or workplaces with large numbers of employees, thereby reducing the need for constant refilling. 
• Refilling Frequency: Determine how often the mouthwash dispenser will need refilling based on past usage. For example, high-traffic areas or workplaces with large numbers of employees would benefit from more frequent refillings.

Importance of Easy Cleaning and Maintenance 

Easy cleaning and maintenance is important when selecting a mouthwash dispenser. Regular maintenance of workplace mouthwash dispensers ensures longevity and optimal functionality. 

• Hygiene and Sanitation: An easy-to-clean dispenser minimizes the possibility of bacterial growth. A hygienic mouthwash dispenser equipped with touchless technology helps reduce the risk of bacterial growth and contamination.
• Prevention of Contamination: The ease of cleaning means simplifying the cleaning and maintenance process and therefore reducing the likelihood of cross-contamination or other health concerns.
• Sustainability and Longevity: Regular cleaning prevents blockages or any build-up of debris, which may ultimately lead to a dispenser that is not effective or is faulty. If the dispenser is cleaned regularly and maintained, then it will have a higher chance of being operational for a long period. 
• User-Friendly Experience: Ease of cleaning means employees may be more likely to opt in to workplace oral hygiene. If the dispenser is difficult to clean, employees may not find it effective enough and it will not be used to its full purpose.
• Compliance with Health Standards: Health and safety is a crucial aspect when considering an easy-to-clean and easy-to-maintain dispenser. There are various health and safety standards for workplaces which businesses must adhere to.
• Time and Resource Efficiency: Factors such as cleaning and maintaining the dispenser may be time and resource consuming for maintenance staff. If the dispenser is easy-to-clean, then less time and resources are needed for cleaning, ultimately saving the business time and money in the dispenser’s upkeep and maintenance. 
• Adaptability to Cleaning Products: When selecting materials for a dispenser, it is essential that they can resist common cleaning agents so the cleaning process can be more effective without the risk of damage

Contamination, Prevention, and Hygienic Use 

Incorporating features for contamination prevention and hygienic use include:

• Sealed Dispensing Mechanism: A sealed dispensing mechanism means that the mouthwash is not exposed to external contaminants such as airborne particles, dust, or other pollutants.
• Disposable Cup Dispensing Option: A disposable cup dispensing option limits the risk of cross-contamination as employees do not need to use their cups for mouthwash use.
• Anti-Drip Mechanism: An anti-drip mechanism provides extra protection by preventing mouthwash from leaving excessive amounts of mouthwash behind the spout. This feature also protects the walls of the mouthwash dispenser and area from unnecessarily coming into contact with the mouth washing solution. 
• Refillable and Sealable Containers: Refillable and sealable containers feature either sealing lids or caps that serve to maintain the freshness and purity of the mouthwash. Storing the mouthwash in such a way prevents contamination and guarantees that the portion dispensed remains clean and unpolluted. 
• Transparent Reservoirs: Transparent reservoirs ensure that users and maintenance staff can remain proactive and keep track of the mouthwash level.

Ease of Installation and Potential Locations 

Ensuring the ease of installation and carefully selecting suitable locations for workplace mouthwash dispensers are key steps in their functionality and accessibility. The installation of mouthwash dispensers should be strategic for accessibility and effectiveness. 

• Ease of Installation: Opt for dispensers that are simple to install, whether wall- or countertop models. Quick-mount dispensers with easy-to-follow instructions and minimal fixtures are a good choice.
• Versatility in Placement: Select dispenser models that offer flexibility in placement location. Wall models look great in public or reception areas, restrooms, or hallways. Countertop models are good for smaller offices or locations where walls are not easily accessible. 
• Proximity to High-Traffic Areas: Identify and prioritize core areas of employee activity. This way, workers can get easy access to mouthwash as part of their daily routines. Whether it’s the break room, the front entrance to the office, or the communal hallway, all these locations constitute high-traffic areas. 
• Accessibility for All Employees: This could mean secure wheelchair access to smaller areas of the office. Improving the overall accommodating nature of your office environment equally extends the branded culture that makes companies as approachable and inviting as possible. 
• Privacy Considerations: It's essential to place dispensers in easily reachable locations but ensure that the chosen spots respect employees’ privacy and comfort.
• Maintenance Accessibility: Choose locations that facilitate easy maintenance and refilling. 
• Consistent Aesthetic Integration: Whether it’s color coordination, branding elements, or design, ensuring that the dispenser blends seamlessly with the overall office environment contributes to a polished and professional appearance

Accessibility Considerations

Accessibility plays a key role in ensuring that workplace mouthwash dispensers are readily available to all employees, promoting inclusivity and convenience. 

• ADA Compliance: Mouthwash dispensers should be installed and placed in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This includes considering reach height and clear floor space for wheelchair users.
• Multiple Dispenser Locations: The installation of mouthwash dispensers across the workplace is important especially in large-sized workspaces as well as multi-storey buildings. Some organizations have over 1,000 employees spread across multiple floors, and with this kind of layout, having dispensers at relevant departments and accessible from the main corridors can be a good option. 
• Universal Design: Prioritize mouthwash dispenser models that are user-friendly for everyone, regardless of age or physical abilities. 
• Consideration for Employees with Mobility Challenges: Ensure that dispensers are installed at heights reachable by those in wheelchairs, and choose locations that provide clear pathways for movement without obstacles.
• Braille or Tactile Signage: Braille or tactile signage near dispenser locations can assist employees with visual impairments. 
• Proximity to Workstations: Place dispensers in proximity to workstations to minimize the travel distance for employees, especially for those with mobility issues.
• Privacy and Dignity: Ensure that employees in open office layouts or areas with high foot traffic can access mouthwash dispensers without feeling exposed or uncomfortable. 
• Training and Awareness: Ensure all employees are aware of the locations of the dispensers and how to use them. 
• Regular Feedback and Adjustment: Get feedback from employees, especially those with specific accessibility needs to learn what improvements they may have.

Cost Range and Budget-Friendly Options

When implementing a workplace mouthwash dispenser program, exploring the cost range and considering budget-friendly options is essential for businesses looking to balance the benefits of oral hygiene initiatives with finances. Consider the following:

• Initial Investment: This is heavily dependent on the feature and materials that will be used, as well as the size of the dispenser and the total area that you will need to cover in the workplace.
• Dispenser Types and Features: Different types of dispensers come with different prices. For example, manual pump dispensers can be more affordable than touchless or automatic ones due to the advanced technology used in these automatic versions.
• Material Quality: While dispensers made from high-quality materials can be more expensive up front, in the long run, they can lower maintenance and replacement expenses.
• Refill Costs: If bulk purchasing is right for your business, you can buy large quantities of refills and use these at your discretion. On the other hand, if you opt for subscription models, you’ll be able to have a better handle on your expenses with the regular, predictable expenses.
• Maintenance Requirements: Depending on the needs of your business, some dispensers might have several moving parts that can be tricky to clean, while others have a simpler design and are more user-friendly.
• Comparative Analysis: Since you will be ensuring that every office will have a dispenser, it’s important to look for a reliable and trustworthy supplier that offers a model that balances cost and quality.
• Warranty and Support: While budget-friendly options are important, having a reliable warranty can offer protection against unexpected malfunctions and reduce the overall cost of ownership.
• Energy Efficiency: Consider looking at dispensers that are more energy-efficient, such as automatic or touchless ones that use sensors for activation.
• DIY Installation vs. Professional Installation: If you’re planning on testing out several dispensers, you will need to decide whether they can be DIY installed using your business’s own staff or whether professional installation will be needed. This might limit the types of models that you end up installing.

Mechanisms for Dispensing and Workplace Preferences

Manual Pump Dispensers

These dispensers need to be manually pumped to get the mouthwash into the cup or directly into a user's mouth.

• Advantages: Simple, cost-effective, and easy to use. Manual pump dispensers work well in small offices with smaller budgets.
• Workplace Preferences: In a workplace with a reduced number of users, the manual dispenser is a good choice.

Touchless or Automatic Dispensers

These dispensers use sensor technology so the mouthwash is released at a pre-set quantity as well as in a contact-free manner.

• Advantages: Because user contact is not needed, touchless dispensers improve hygiene and provide a hands-free experience. This avoids the risk of cross-contamination. 
• Workplace Preferences: These dispensers are appropriate for workplaces that promote modernity and convenience and also a clean work environment. Touchless dispensers can be more appropriate for a workplace that has a high number of users or continued use.

Wall-Mounted Dispensers

These can be placed on walls instead of taking up countertop space. 

• Advantages: These dispensers save counter space and are more efficient for busy, high-traffic locations.
• Workplace Preferences: Good for offices with available wall space and preferable for centralized use such as by restrooms or an open space.

Countertop Dispensers

These are dispensers that are either placed on a countertop or other surface.

• Advantages: These are simple enough to be placed in various locations at work, making them ideal for smaller offices or spaces without available wall space.
• Workplace Preferences: For workspaces with limited space or that have a desire for a portable, adaptable solution.

Disposable Cup Dispensers

Mouthwash dispensers with disposable cups are ideal for one-time use.

• Advantages: This is a hygienic option as it reduces the need for shared cups.
• Workplace Preferences: Disposable cup dispensers best suit offices that have employees who would like the convenience of discardable cups for a more hygienic experience.

Customizable or Branded Dispensers

Customizable or branded dispensers feature the company's logo or brand elements.

• Advantages: Reinforces the company’s branding efforts.
• Workplace Preferences: Good for businesses that value a consistent corporate image and want to integrate the dispenser seamlessly into their overall aesthetic.

Fluoride or Medicated Mouthwash Dispensers

Dispensers offering specialized mouthwash options, such as fluoride or medicated solutions, cater to different users. 

• Advantages: Caters to the specific oral health needs of employees, providing a comprehensive approach.
• Workplace Preferences: Best for workplaces where employees may need varied oral care or where extra dental treatment is essential.

Availability and Access to Mouthwash Refills 

Availability and easy access to mouthwash refills is a key component of maintaining their effectiveness and sustainability. 

• Consistent Supply Chain: Work with reputable suppliers or distributors who can ensure a consistent and timely supply of mouthwash products.
• Bulk Purchasing Options: Consider bulk purchasing to secure cost savings and ensure a sufficient quantity of mouthwash on hand for refills.
• Convenient Storage: Ensure that maintenance staff or those responsible can easily refill the dispensers when needed.
• User-Friendly Refilling Process: Reduce the time and effort required for filling and maintenance by using detachable or easily accessible components.
• Predictable Refilling Schedule: Establish a refilling schedule based on the usage patterns and needs of the workplace. Regularly review consumption rates to determine the best frequency of refills.
• Transparent Reservoirs: This visual indicator helps in timely refilling and prevents instances of dispensers running out unexpectedly.
• Emergency Resupply Protocol: Have contingency plans in place to ensure that employees are not inconvenienced by not having mouthwash refilled.
• Employee Feedback and Communication: Having open communication channels helps address any concerns promptly while demonstrating a commitment to meeting employee needs.
• Integration with Workplace Wellness Programs: Integrating a mouthwash dispenser program can facilitate coordination with existing wellness programs.

Durability, Lifespan, and Warranties and Guarantees

The durability and lifespan of workplace mouthwash dispensers are key considerations to ensure a long-lasting and cost-effective investment. 

• Construction Materials: Choose mouthwash dispensers made from high-quality and durable materials such as stainless steel or ABS plastic.
• Resistance to Corrosion and Rust: Ensure that the dispenser is resistant to corrosion and rust as corrosion can compromise both aesthetics and functionality.
• Impact Resistance: Reinforced or impact-resistant materials and designs can enhance the overall durability of the dispenser. This is particularly useful in busy workplaces.
• Easy-to-Clean Design: Smooth surfaces, minimal seams, and detachable components make it simpler to maintain hygiene and extend the lifespan of the dispenser.
• UV Resistance: UV-resistant materials prevent discoloration, fading, or degradation caused by prolonged exposure to sunlight.
• Manufacturer Reputation: Established and reputable manufacturers often follow higher quality standards, producing products with better durability and performance.
• Warranty and Support: A longer warranty period may indicate the manufacturer's confidence in the durability of their product.
• Adaptability to Changing Needs: If a dispenser can be easily relocated or integrated into new spaces or layouts, this enhances its practical lifespan.

Compliance with Health and Safety Regulations

Adhering to health and safety regulations is key to ensuring the well-being of employees.

• Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Standards: OSHA regulations provide guidance for maintaining a safe and healthy workplace.
• Material Safety and Data Sheets (MSDS): MSDSs for the mouthwash product used in the dispensers provides important information about the chemical composition, potential hazards, and safe handling procedures.
• Dispenser Material Standards: Dispenser materials should be non-toxic, free from harmful chemicals, and follow the specific requirements outlined in health and safety regulations.
• Accessibility Standards: Accommodate employees with diverse needs by considering reach height and a clear floor space.
• Hygiene Standards: Regular cleaning prevents bacterial growth, contamination, and makes for a hygienic user experience.
• Sanitation Practices: Touchless or automatic dispensers minimize contact and reduce the risk of cross-contamination.
• Emergency Protocols: Have emergency protocols in place in case of spills, leaks, or other emergencies to minimize potential hazards.
• Documentation and Records: Maintaining documentation of compliance efforts, including maintenance records and cleaning schedules related to the mouthwash dispensers.
• Employee Training: Educate employees on the importance of following established guidelines to ensure their own safety and that of others.

Conclusion

Workplace oral health solutions contribute to creating a comprehensive and effective oral hygiene program. The benefits of workplace mouthwash are multiple, highlighting how a well-implemented mouthwash program can contribute to improved employee health, confidence, and well-being. 

Selecting the right mouthwash dispenser for the workplace is a strategic decision that goes beyond basic hygiene. It reflects an organization's commitment to employee well-being and contributes to creating a positive and caring work environment. By considering factors such as dispenser type, size, accessibility, and maintenance, businesses can make informed choices that improve workplace oral hygiene practices and contribute to a healthier, happier, and more productive workforce.