If you are thinking about adding a soap dispenser, you might want to consider several factors before adding this convenient bathroom and kitchen accessory. First of all, if you plan on installing a sink-mounted soap dispenser, how far exactly should it be from the faucet? Which side should you place the soap dispenser on? In this article, we will be looking at the factors that will determine the answers to these questions and more.
When it comes to installing a soap dispenser, the accepted industry standard space is about 4-inches between the sink drain and the dispenser. However, installing one to the kitchen sink is different as it will require around 8-inches instead.
Note that these are not rules that you need to follow to the letter. You might want to consider different other factors, such as the sink and faucet’s configuration, other sink accessories, and personal preference.
Moving forwards in this article, we will be taking a closer look at the factors that will help dictate where to place your soap dispenser on the sink.
Which Side Should You Place the Soap Dispenser?
The rule of thumb for which side of the sink the soap dispenser should be placed in the homeowner’s dominant hand? Are you left-handed or right-handed? That is pretty much the first element to consider. Other aspects in the equation include the sink’s configuration, the number of accessories installed or planned to install, what type of dispenser you will be using, and personal preference.
We will be going into further detail below concerning the ‘other factors to consider.
Sink Configuration
While your dominant hand typically dictates which side of the sink the soap dispenser is installed, the sink configuration might override that altogether. For example, if you have a double sink in your kitchen, the placement of the soap dispenser will depend on where you plan to wash your dishes.
There is also the factor of having a garbage disposal feature under the sink. The garbage disposal feature usually takes up countertop space to pre-determine where you can install the soap dispenser.
Sink Accessories
Besides the soap dispenser, other sink accessories can take up space on your countertop. From hand soap dispensers to dishwashing soap dispensers, consider the other accessories you are planning to install as well. It would be best to plan out where you will place each dispenser to optimize convenience and avoid the countertop looking cluttered.
One piece of advice we can give is to place dispensers with similar uses close to each other. For example, have your hand soap and lotion dispenser together on one side and have the dishwashing soap dispenser on the opposite side.
Your Dominant Hand
Now that we have gone through the other elements that can affect the placement of the soap dispenser, we are back to the primary factor – are you left or right-handed? Again, the primary factor to consider is convenience regarding the soap dispenser placement on your sink. Which hand do you often use to turn on the faucet? Which hand do you use to scrub dishes, and which hand do you use to hold them in place? Remember to always focus on ease-of-use when it comes to these types of fixtures.
Where to Install the Soap Dispenser?
If you wish to install a mounted soap dispenser, there are two options available. There is the countertop soap dispenser, and there is the sink-mounted version. Understanding the differences between the two will help you decide which to pick.
Countertop Soap Dispenser
The most common and most affordable soap dispenser option is the countertop version. Countertop soap dispensers do not need installation onto the sink and are freestanding containers. This soap dispenser is typically made from plastic, glass, ceramic, or stainless steel. In addition, it comes in both manual and automatic versions.
If you are looking for a simple, efficient, and affordable option, the countertop soap dispenser is as good a choice as any. Refilling is also easy, and it can be positioned anywhere on the countertop.
Sink-Mounted Soap Dispenser
If you wish to add a bit of a luxurious flair to your bathroom sink, having a sink-mounted soap dispenser will do the trick. You will need to drill holes on your countertop, so make sure you gauge the distance from the faucet before you begin.
The advantage of sink-mounted soap dispensers, besides having a sleek and modern appeal, is that it helps save countertop space. However, we recommend going with higher-end models as cheaper units tend to be susceptible to rust and clogging.
Should You Get a Soap Dispenser?
So, should you buy a soap dispenser? While this kitchen and bathroom accessory is not mandatory, it does provide enhanced convenience and hygiene which is always welcome. Not only can it reduce the clutter on your countertop, but it can also help you save cash over time. You can simply refill it with liquid soap. Take note that high-end soap dispensers made of premium materials or touchless technology can be pretty expensive, hitting the $100 mark. However, you generally get a higher quality, sturdier, more efficient, and stylish sink fixture.
One of the key features to look for is a quality soap pump and the connectors that join to the soap container, on cheap models these are often made of flimsy plastic that can break and cause the soap to leak and often hard to find the correct replacement piece.
Final Thoughts
Knowing how far a soap dispenser should be from the faucet is crucial to avoid issues in the future. The correct distance, which is 4-inches for bathroom sinks, also optimizes the overall convenience and comfort in using this accessory. Keep in mind that convenience should always be the deciding factor for soap dispenser placement.