01How to choose among the three formats
| Format | Pros | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|
| Single-use bottles (30–50 ml) | One set per guest, feels hygienic | High usage and more waste; restricted in some regions |
| Refillable bottles (200–300 ml) | Looks good, low cost per use | Needs regular cleaning and refilling, and protection against tampering |
| Wall dispensers (300–500 ml) | Lowest cost and most eco-friendly | Needs installation, and must suit the bathroom design |
02What a set usually includes
- Basics: shampoo, shower gel.
- Common additions: conditioner, body lotion, soap.
- Small extras: dental kit (toothbrush and toothpaste), comb, shower cap, cotton swabs, razor, sewing kit, hair tie.
Economy hotels usually provide the basics plus dental kits; mid- to upscale hotels provide the full range with consistent scent and packaging.
03Estimating quantities
Monthly usage ≈ rooms × occupancy × 30 × guests per room.
For example, 80 rooms, 70% occupancy and an average of 1.6 guests per room: 80 × 0.7 × 30 × 1.6 ≈ 2,690 sets / month.
- Items guests take on request, such as dental kits and combs, are used less than guest numbers suggest. Record actual consumption in the first month or two after opening, then adjust.
- Stock should cover the restocking cycle: if it takes 2 months from order to arrival, hold at least 2 months' usage plus a little safety stock.
- Mind the shelf life; don't stock several years' worth at once.
04What to look for in samples
- Scent and texture
- Lather and rinse feel
- Whether bottles leak when turned upside down or squeezed
- Whether the pump works smoothly
- Ingredients, batch number and shelf life on the label
- Remaining shelf life on arrival
Ideally, have housekeeping and the staff who use them trial the samples together, and write the results into the purchasing specification.
05Branding
- Printing on the bottle: looks better, higher MOQ.
- Standard bottles with printed labels: low MOQ, suited to small orders or newly opened hotels.
- Outer boxes and kit bags can also carry your brand; confirm their colors together with the bottles.
For more on MOQ, see "Why do minimum order quantities vary for custom hotel supplies?"
06How to word your inquiry
How to word your inquiry
Shampoo, shower gel, conditioner and body lotion, 40 ml round bottles each, bergamot scent, one-color brand logo printed on the bottle, bilingual English and Arabic labels. Dental kits, combs and shower caps also needed. About 2,700 sets per month, restocked every 2 months.