A soap dispenser is a device that dispenses soap when it is properly controlled or activated (usually in small, single-use quantities). Soap dispensers are common in public restrooms. They are divided into two categories: manual and automatic.

Manual Soap Dispensers

The design of a manual soap dispenser is determined by the nature of the soap - liquid, powder, or foam.

Liquid Soap

When soap is distributed as a liquid, it is usually in a squeeze bottle or a pump. Plastic pump bottles, many of which are disposable, are the most common soap dispensers of this sort.

Powdered Soap

Pre-powdered soap dispensers, like borax, are frequently in the form of a metal box with a loaded lever that releases a handful of soap when pressed. The laundry is also washed with ground soap.

Foam Soap

Foam soap dispensers include dual foam injectors that flow both air and soap via small apertures to create a lather when activated. They are available in both manual and automated versions.

Automatic Soap Dispenser

An automatic soap dispenser is a hands-free soap dispenser (both liquid and foamy soap. Automatic dispensers are frequently powered by batteries. When a sensor detects motion under the nozzle, the liquid is dispensed without touching it. An automatic soap dispenser's electronic components enable a timing device or signal (sound, lights, etc.) to communicate to the user whether they have washed their hands for the proper period or not.

Hands-free water and soap/hand sanitizer dispensers are very useful in operating rooms and have advantages such as being more hygienic, easier to use, and sustainable.