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Apr 27, 2024

The 8 Best Automatic Soap Dispensers for Touchless Handwashing

Dotdash Meredith and Yahoo Inc. may earn commission or revenue on some items through the links below. Courtesy of Umbra No matter the season, washing your hands is beneficial to your health and

Dotdash Meredith and Yahoo Inc. may earn commission or revenue on some items through the links below.

Courtesy of Umbra

No matter the season, washing your hands is beneficial to your health and prevents the spread of bacteria and germs. Making the process more convenient can only improve our handwashing habits—and one way to do just that is by using an automatic soap dispenser.

They have a myriad of benefits, says pediatric nurse practitioner Brittany Ryan, MSN, RN, CPNP-PC. "We know that bathroom and kitchen surfaces can be breeding grounds for bacteria and viruses, so the fewer surfaces you touch, the better," says Ryan. "The purpose of washing your hands is to eliminate germs from the skin, not introduce more—which can happen with traditional bar soap or pump dispensers."

As for what to look for in an automatic option? "I would recommend a dispenser that is truly 'no touch.' Make sure your hand can easily fit under the sensor and spout without touching a surface," adds Ryan, noting that it's critical that your device spurts out enough soap, too. "And while more soap doesn't necessarily mean more effective cleansing, you want to create a lather that will thoroughly clean all areas of your hands."

However you decide to wash your hands—automatic soap dispenser or not—it's important to do so thoroughly. "Washing your hands is one of the simplest and best ways to prevent the spread of bacterial and viral infections, so wash frequently," says Ryan. "When washing, don't forget about those less visible areas of your hands, like under your nails and between your fingers. And remember—always wash for at least 20 seconds."

If you are interested in scooping up an automatic dispenser for your home, you'll find some effective options below.

Related: Do You Wash Your Dishes by Hand? Here's How to Make Sure They Are Thoroughly Sanitized Before the Next Use

Simplehuman is known for its high-tech designs that meld seamlessly with the rest of a room's appliances and décor. This touch-free dispenser is no exception—and it's eco-friendly and waste-reducing to boot. Its neatest feature? Position your hands up close for more soap or further away if you need less

If you prefer foaming soap as opposed to liquid, this automatic dispenser is for you. It's affordable, easy to use, and particularly great for a child's bathroom.

Want a classic automatic soap dispenser in a stainless-steel finish? This is your best bet. It comes with a no-drip spout and a filter to prevent clogs.

Also from Simplehuman, this automatic soap dispenser is easy to use and intuitively designed, so it's a great choice for kids. The clear chamber and pop-off lid make refilling the device a breeze, as well. It comes with a no-drip spout and a filter to prevent clogs.

This high-tech, no-touch pump has an infrared smart sensor that dispenses exactly one milliliter of soap within a half-second of detection. The sealed rubber material at the bottom prevents leakage and keeps the bottle firmly positioned on your countertop.

This dispenser comes in white, black, and nickel finishes, so you can take your pick. The sensor pump automatically dispenses a fixed amount of soap, and the fluid level indicator window lets you see when it's time for a refill. Best of all, it's multipurpose: The canister can be filled with dish soap, liquid hand soap, or sanitizer.

This battery-operated automatic soap dispenser has a large, clear container, so you can easily see when it's time for a refill. It's also an Amazon best-seller with more than 16,800 five-star reviews. Stand it up on the countertop or save space by hanging it with the included wall bracket.

For a more subtle look, consider this stylish touchless soap dispenser from Beyond Creation. It dispenses foam soap in seconds and can be turned on and off as needed. Choose from green or white colorways to give your bathroom and kitchen a quick upgrade.