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Soap Dishes & Dispensers

Wall mounting keeps soap dishes & dispensers off the basin edge. Freestanding designs can be moved when cleaning the benchtop.

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Soap Dishes & Dispensers

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About Soap Dishes & Dispensers products

Soap dishes keep a bar of soap dry between uses, and dispensers portion out liquid soap at the basin, in the shower or beside the laundry tub. On this page they sit within a wider range of high-quality bathroom accessories, in ceramic, glass, stainless steel and plastic, from designers and makers supplying the New Zealand market.

Soap dishes and dispensers are essential in a bathroom as they provide a hygienic and convenient way to store and access soap, preventing it from becoming soggy or leaving residue on surfaces. They also contribute to the overall cleanliness and organisation of the bathroom, enhancing its aesthetic appeal and functionality. ArchiPro features only the very best soap dishes and dispensers in New Zealand from leading brands and trusted suppliers.

Wall-mounted soap dishes

These are affixed to the wall, saving counter space and adding to a cleaner, more streamlined bathroom appearance. Materials vary from ceramic and glass to metal and plastic.

Freestanding soap dishes

Positioned on countertops, these dishes are portable and come in numerous designs in New Zealand, including minimalist modern, ornate vintage, and everything in between. Common materials include ceramic, stainless steel, wood, and glass.

A soap rack is a freestanding variant in the same category, with raised slots or a wire frame that lifts the bar clear of the shelf surface so air can move around it. Like a dish, it comes in stainless steel, timber and ceramic, and suits a basin where bench space allows for something with a small footprint.

Shower soap dishes

Specifically designed for use in wet areas, these soap dishes often feature drainage to keep soap dry. They can be wall-mounted or hang over shower doors and are made from materials like plastic, silicone, or rust-resistant metals.

Manual soap dispensers

Operated by a push pump, these dispensers are versatile and come in a wide range of materials, including glass, ceramic, metal, and plastic, suitable for liquid soaps and lotions.

Automatic soap dispensers

Offering a touchless experience, automatic dispensers are battery-operated and dispense a preset amount of soap, enhancing hygiene by minimising contact. They are typically made of plastic or stainless steel for easy cleaning.

Wall-mounted dispensers

These save space and can be either manual or automatic. They're ideal for keeping countertops clear and are popular in both residential and commercial bathrooms in New Zealand.

Refillable dispensers

Designed to be eco-friendly, these dispensers can be repeatedly refilled with bulk soap, reducing waste. They come in both manual and automatic types and are available in various materials.

The pump format also carries into other rooms of the house. A kitchen soap dispenser beside the sink can be filled with dish liquid, keeping one bottle in place of several. A dishwasher soap dispenser is a different fitting altogether, a reservoir built into the appliance door, and sits outside the bathroom range listed here.

Designer dispensers

For those looking to add a touch of luxury or a specific style to their bathroom, designer soap dispensers come in unique shapes, colours, and finishes, acting as both functional items and decorative elements.

Finish and colour carry much of a dispenser's character. A brown ceramic soap dispenser reads as a solid, opaque form and hides the soap level in a way glass does not, while a metal or glass bottle suits a more pared-back scheme.

The benefits of high-quality soap dishes and dispensers

High-quality soap dishes and dispensers in New Zealand offer several benefits, significantly enhancing the functionality and aesthetic of any bathroom. Firstly, they are designed with durability in mind, made from materials that resist wear, corrosion, and damage from moisture, ensuring longevity even in a humid bathroom environment. This durability means less frequent replacements, offering better value for money in the long run. Secondly, well-designed soap dishes and dispensers contribute to a more hygienic bathroom by providing proper drainage for soap bars to prevent them from becoming soggy and by allowing for touchless dispensing of liquid soap, which minimises the spread of germs. Additionally, the variety of designs available means that it's easy to find a product that not only meets practical needs but also complements the bathroom's decor, enhancing its overall look. High-quality options often feature thoughtful details, such as non-slip bases, easy-to-clean surfaces, and mechanisms that ensure smooth, consistent soap dispensing, combining everyday convenience with a touch of luxury.

How to choose a soap dish or dispenser

When selecting a soap dish or dispenser in New Zealand, consider both functionality and aesthetic appeal to ensure it meets your needs and complements your bathroom's style. For soap dishes, look for designs with proper drainage to keep the soap dry and extend its lifespan. Materials like ceramic, stainless steel, or silicone are durable and easy to clean. If you prefer soap dispensers, decide between manual and automatic types based on hygiene preferences. Automatic dispensers provide a touchless experience, reducing the spread of germs. The material is also important so prioritising corrosion-resistant options like plastic, glass, or metal that can withstand a humid environment is key. Consider the size and capacity to ensure it fits well in your space and meets your usage requirements. Additionally, think about the installation type-freestanding models offer flexibility, while a wall mounted soap dispenser will save counter space. Finally, choose a design that matches your bathroom's decor, whether you're looking for a modern, minimalist look or something more traditional, to create a cohesive and visually pleasing environment.

Other bathroom accessories you may need

There are a number of other bathroom accessories that you should add to your list to complete your full bathroom renovation. Toothbrush holders are incredibly handy, especially for those in a big household where a collection of toothbrushes splayed out across a bathroom counter can quickly become unsightly. Hand towel holders are another underrated addition, making sure a hand towel is always within reach when you need it. Finally, bathroom bins are vital for a clean and hygienic bathroom environment and are increasingly becoming more stylish in design too. 

Where should a soap holder be placed?

Soap holders should be placed where it’s most convenient and easily reached. You can place a soap holder directly beside the sink for easy access, next to your toothbrush and skincare. In New Zealand, many people like to place their soap holder for easy access with their dominant hand. For example, if you’re right-handed, place your soap holder on the right side of the sink.

How high should a shower soap rack be?

If you’re looking for a soap rack to place in a shower, keep in mind that racks too low can be easily knocked and bumped, making for an unpleasant shower experience—especially if your shower is small! Generally, somewhere from the chest up is ideal. It’s also important to take into consideration other people that will be using the shower. If you have children, the height will need to be adjusted to a lower height.

What type of soap should be used in an automatic soap dispenser? 

Soap dispensers only suit liquid soap, as this pairs optimally with the dispensing mechanism. Be careful when selecting foaming soap however as most require a special type of dispenser for the liquid to be turned into foam.