Dispensers & Tissues

Dispensers, tissues and hygiene supplies buying guide

Start with the dispensers installed at each location

Walk through the washrooms, staff areas and customer spaces that need supplies. Record the type of dispenser, the product it holds and how frequently it is refilled. Note which units need replacement and which just need consumables. A consolidated order is useful when the requirements are clear, but do not combine two refill formats simply because the dispensers look alike from the outside.

Photograph the dispenser open and closed, and record the model marking if one is visible. Note the available space inside and how the refill is loaded. If the unit uses a lock, key or particular holder, ask which parts come with a replacement. For a new location, list the dispenser and its proposed refill separately so the initial purchase and the ongoing cost can be compared.

Measure the refill format

For paper towels, note the fold, sheet dimensions and stack size. For rolls, ask for the outside diameter, width and core size where relevant. For boxed tissues, check the pack dimensions and the number of sheets. The description paper towel or tissue roll does not tell you whether the refill fits an existing unit. Compare the actual measurements and try a sample where the fit is uncertain.

Keep a short record of what fits at each site. Where several buildings use the same dispenser, confirm that the units really share the same specification before buying cartons across all locations. A mismatch can make replenishment difficult even if the total count is correct. Label different formats at receiving and store them where staff can identify the matching unit quickly.

Check soap and sanitiser dispensing separately

Identify whether a unit is refilled from a bulk container or uses a cartridge or bottle. State the liquid and the existing unit if a replacement pump or refill is needed. Confirm compatibility and care instructions for the offered model. If a facility specifies a particular product, concentration or documented requirement, ask its responsible team to review the relevant label and information before purchase.

For other cleaning liquids, describe the surface and task, then ask for the instructions for the actual item. Do not choose a product only by its scent, pack size or position in the catalogue. Keep the product information with the quotation so the people who will use it can confirm it matches the site’s routine.

Plan usage and compare the purchase units

Estimate consumption from the number of operating locations and the interval between refills. Check a busy period as well as an ordinary week. A public area and a staff washroom may need very different quantities. Use these observations to plan the initial order, then review actual usage before changing the quantity for every site.

Confirm how many packs, rolls or bottles are included in a carton. Compare the number of usable units at the stated price rather than assuming two cartons contain the same quantity. Include delivery charges and the receiving plan in your comparison. Where a carton contains inner packs, ask for both counts so staff can distribute the stock correctly.

Send an itemised enquiry

Include the dispenser or refill type, model or dimensions, quantities and delivery city. Mark any items that must match an existing system and list acceptable alternatives separately. Ask for the actual specification, stock and pack details for each line before approval. For a mixed order, use Contact DirectLine to send the list and attach photos through the available sales channel.

Can I order refills for more than one dispenser? Yes. Provide the details for each format on its own line.

What if I do not know the model? Send clear photos and internal dimensions. Confirm the offered refill before committing to a carton quantity.