Wash Away the Doubt and Dry with Confidence

It’s time to be informed, as users, building owners, and manufacturers. Health experts from the World Health Organization and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend handwashing and drying with either hand dryers or paper towels as our top defense against infection. World Dryer offers over 70 years of expertise to help answer your top questions about hand dryer use.

Q: What is the most hygienic drying method?

A: The World Health Organization recommends drying hands thoroughly as a part of proper hand hygiene. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), germs spread more easily when hands are wet. Dry your hands completely with hand dryers or paper towels. Once hands are clean, hand dryers are a fast and dependable source for hand drying that don’t require restocking or constant maintenance.

Q: Are hand dryers safe to use?

A: World Dryer’s HEPA-filtered hand dryers capture 99.97% of particles, 0.3μm or larger, cleaning the air before reaching the user. Antimicrobial technology protects the dryer by inhibiting the growth of bacteria, mold, and fungus. Touchless operation reduces touch points allowing users to complete the drying process without running into cross-contamination.

Q: Do hand dryers blow germs and pathogens?

A: Any source of air causes particle movement, which happens throughout a restroom in other ways. Particles will move with airflow from an HVAC or ventilation system, flushing a toilet or our own activity in the washroom. Whether you use paper towels or hand dryers, restroom air can contain bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms. World Dryer offers HEPA-filtered hand dryers that remove 99.97% of particles, 0.3μm or larger, from the airstream. Users finish the handwashing cycle by drying their hands with cleaner air.

Q: Do hand dryers harbor bacteria and germs?

A: Antimicrobial technology protects the dryer by inhibiting the growth of bacteria, mold, and fungus. These are not simple coatings that can wear off.  The antimicrobial additives are completely mixed with the paint on outer covers and the internal plastic components forming the airflow path; meaning the dryer will be continuously protected for the dryer’s service life.

Most importantly, no matter your drying preference, do not use your clothing to dry your hands. Improper washing and drying of hands represent a public health risk. Together, we can all have a hand in staying informed and healthy.