A carton of paper towels can look like a sensible purchase until someone tries to load the dispenser. A mismatch discovered at receiving creates extra work; a mismatch discovered in a busy restroom is even less convenient.
Paper supplies are familiar products, but the buying details deserve a closer look. Roll width, outside diameter, core design, dispensing system and pack count all affect the choice. A good order begins with the equipment and the routine already in place, then compares products that meet those needs.
Record the dispenser manufacturer and model, then verify compatibility with the exact paper product. “Universal” in a title is not a substitute for checking the dimensions and dispensing requirements.
Start at the dispenser
Take a clear photo of the dispenser and its model label. Record whether it uses folded towels, a continuous roll or a controlled dispensing format. For roll systems, confirm width, maximum roll diameter and core requirements. Some systems depend on a particular notch, spindle or other feature; a roll with a similar width may still be unsuitable.
Keep one approved product reference for each dispenser type. If a building has several models, label the storage locations accordingly. That prevents a buyer from assuming that every restroom uses the same roll and helps a new staff member select the correct carton.
Compare formats on their own terms
| Format | Details to verify | Useful purchasing unit |
|---|---|---|
| Multifold or singlefold towels | Folded dimensions, fold type and dispenser fit | Sheets per pack and packs per case |
| Hardwound towel rolls | Width, length, diameter and core requirements | Feet per roll and rolls per case |
| Standard bath tissue | Roll dimensions and dispenser compatibility | Sheets per roll and rolls per case |
| Jumbo bath tissue | Outside diameter, core and dispenser capacity | Feet per roll and rolls per case |
| Facial tissue | Box format, sheet count and storage fit | Sheets per box and boxes per case |
Do not compare two different formats using only the number of rolls or boxes. A six-roll case can contain a different total length from another six-roll case. A smaller-looking carton might hold more sheets. The pack details tell you what the invoice is actually buying.
Put the price on the same basis
For folded towels, divide the case price by total sheets. For continuous roll towels, compare total linear feet when widths and relevant specifications are comparable. For facial tissue, compare total sheets after checking box format and product suitability. The unit you choose should match the products you are evaluating.
A $42 case with 4,000 sheets costs $10.50 per 1,000 sheets. A $36 case with 3,000 sheets costs $12 per 1,000 sheets. The first has the higher case price and the lower price per sheet. These are example figures, not current Medorra prices.
The calculation does not measure actual consumption or prove savings. Different sheet dimensions, dispensing performance and user habits can affect how much product is used. If you are considering a change, compare the delivered cost and trial results alongside the unit price.
Trial a change where it will be used
Choose a manageable location and confirm that the dispenser works as intended with the proposed product. Ask the team to record practical observations: loading, dispensing, storage and the frequency of refills. Keep the trial period and location clear so a busy week is not mistaken for a product effect.
For a multi-site organization, trial the product against the dispenser models used across the locations. A successful test in one building does not establish compatibility in all of them. Record the approved pairings so the result survives staff changes.
Plan stock around use and receiving space
Paper products can occupy a substantial amount of storage. Balance your order quantity against normal usage, confirmed lead time and the space available to keep cartons in the conditions specified by the manufacturer. Buying more than the location can store properly is not a complete purchasing strategy.
Use a consistent unit when counting. If housekeeping counts rolls and purchasing orders cases, show the conversion on the reorder sheet. Note stock that is already on order so two people do not respond to the same low shelf by placing separate orders.
For changing occupancy or traffic, review the demand assumption. A building that is opening another floor may need a different replenishment plan. A quiet month should not automatically become the forecast for a busy season.
What to send with a paper-supply inquiry
- Dispenser manufacturer, model and a clear photo if available.
- The current paper item code and carton label.
- Required fold type or roll dimensions.
- Preferred case quantity and expected usage.
- Ship-to location and receiving limitations.
- Any specification or approval requirement used by your organization.
Medorra’s paper range includes towel rolls, folded towels, bath tissue and facial tissue. Share the dispenser details when asking about an unfamiliar option. The goal is a product your team can identify, load and reorder with confidence, with its pack count and price understood before the order is placed.
Match the paper to the place.
Explore paper supplies or bring us the dispenser and pack details for your facility.
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