A washroom is a space equipped with toilet and washing facilities, often for use in public places. Washrooms require a variety of supplies to serve their function, but they also may utilize many types of optional supplies. Basic needs include items such as bathroom tissue, hand soap, and paper towels if the washroom does not have electric hand dryers. Cleanliness is sometimes required by law for public washrooms, and to maintain an acceptable level of sanitation, a number of cleaning supplies may be necessary. Vending machines that supply a variety of items are also common additions to public washrooms.
Bathroom tissue is one of the most common types of washroom supplies. Washrooms occasionally feature a bidet and supply some kind of wipes or towels instead of traditional toilet paper. Some washrooms may also supply paper toilet seat covers, which allow people to sit on a toilet without their skin touching a potentially unclean surface.
There may be numerous hand washing supplies and fixtures in a washroom. Many restrooms have paper towels for people to dry their hands, whereas others have air-blowing hand dryers. Hand washing soap is also necessary, and it most commonly comes in containers that fit inside a soap dispenser. A soap dispenser generally utilizes a hand pump, but motion-sensor soap dispensers have become increasingly popular. Some washrooms also supply waterless hand sanitizers instead of traditional antiseptic soap.
Cleansers are essential washroom supplies. Toilet bowl cleaner is necessary for odor control and to maintain a clean appearance. Other cleaners may be used to clean toilet seats and other surfaces. General cleaning supplies are essential for cleaning sinks, mirrors, and floors as well.
Vending machines are a common sight in washrooms. The most common washroom vending machines dispense condoms and female sanitary products. Other vending machine supplies include over-the-counter medicines and perfumes or colognes. Washrooms offering baby changing stations may also have vending machines that provide diapers, baby wipes, and baby powder.
Air-deodorizing systems are a feature employed by many washrooms, and the systems often require replacement refill supplies. Similarly, washrooms designated for male-only use often have urinals that require urinal deodorizer blocks. The blocks are commonly found washroom supplies, helping to disinfect urinals and reduce odor.
Washrooms also utilize some less-obvious supplies. For example, extra light bulbs are common washroom supplies because most use light fixtures instead of natural light. Trash receptacles and trash bags are necessary for all washrooms as well.