The cycle of buying, stocking, and disposing of half-used toiletry bottles is a pain point for Airbnb hosts. It creates ongoing expenses and significant environmental impact, with most bottles ending up in landfills after one guest stay.
Choosing the best bulk shampoo and conditioner for your Airbnb is key to success in today's competitive short-term rental market. Professional hosts and boutique hotels have made this shift, recognizing it as a smart move that improves profitability while streamlining operations. Bulk systems represent good business sense and guest satisfaction, a rare win-win in hosting.
In this guide, we explore the benefits and drawbacks of switching to bulk amenities, provide a checklist for selecting products, review the top brands, and share tips for a seamless implementation that will delight your guests and simplify your hosting routine.
Why Smart Hosts are Switching to Bulk Vacation Rental Toiletries
The north star for any successful rental property is creating an exceptional guest experience, but efficiency and profitability sustain your business. When you consider the numbers and operational benefits, the business case for switching to bulk toiletries is compelling.
The Benefits of a Bulk System
- Significant Cost Savings: The economics are undeniable. Cost-per-ounce reveals the difference between individual bottles and bulk options. A typical 1-ounce travel shampoo costs $0.75-$1.50, while a gallon of bulk shampoo averages $0.15-$0.30 per ounce, representing up to 80% savings over time.
- Streamlined Operations: Your cleaning team no longer needs to check, replace, and restock multiple small bottles during turnovers. They top off dispensers as needed, a faster task that reduces cleaning time and simplifies inventory management.
- Reduced Environmental Impact: Today's travelers value sustainable accommodations. By eliminating dozens or hundreds of plastic bottles monthly, you contribute to [sustainable hosting practices] while appealing to eco-conscious guests. Many will appreciate your commitment to reducing plastic waste as part of your eco-friendly Airbnb supplies approach.
- Elevated & Consistent Presentation: Sleek, matching dispensers create a more intentional, high-end bathroom aesthetic compared to random travel-sized bottles. This cohesive presentation contributes to your rental’s design story and photographs beautifully for listings.
Potential Cons and Mitigation
- Guest Concerns: Some guests worry about product tampering or contamination in shared containers. This concern can be addressed by investing in locking dispensers or tamper-evident pumps that provide visual security.
- Higher Upfront Investment: Quality dispensers and gallon-sized products require a larger initial investment compared to travel bottles. This should be viewed as a one-time capital expense with a quick return on investment, usually within 2-3 months for most properties.
- Risk of a "Cheap" Vibe: Using generic, low-quality products in bulk dispensers can create the impression that you're cutting corners at your guests' expense. The key is choosing premium brands that feel like an upgrade, emphasizing that you're being economical and environmentally conscious, not cheap.
4 Factors for Choosing the Right Bulk Amenities
Not all bulk products are equal. The difference between cost-saving and an elevated guest experience lies in informed choices. This buyer's guide will help you select products that align with your property's brand and meet your guests' expectations.
Brand Perception, Scent, and Guest Experience
The brand you choose communicates your property's values to guests. A luxury property features spa-quality products with sophisticated scents, while a family-friendly beach house opts for gentle, hypoallergenic formulas. Consider what message you want to send, eco-friendly, indulgent luxury, clinical cleanliness, or natural wellness.
Scent selection is important, as fragrance preferences vary among guests. The safest options are universal, neutral scents like citrus, white tea, lemongrass, or unscented options. A pleasant, subtle fragrance experience in the shower can impact your chances of getting 5-star reviews since guests mention "amazing smelling products" in their feedback.
Ingredients and Quality
Look for these quality markers on product labels:
- Free-from formulas: Seek paraben-free, sulfate-free, phthalate-free, and cruelty-free products, as these align with current consumer preferences.
- Nourishing ingredients: High-quality products contain nourishing ingredients like aloe vera, vitamin E, argan oil, or natural essential oils that leave hair and skin feeling nourished.
- Hypoallergenic options: Products for sensitive skin minimize the risk of adverse reactions among your diverse guest base.
- Made in the USA: Many guests see this as a trust signal for product safety and quality.
Cost-Per-Ounce Analysis
When comparing options, calculate the cost-per-ounce instead of just the total gallon price. Create a simple spreadsheet to compare your top choices by dividing the total price by the number of ounces to get the true cost metric.
Remember that the cheapest option isn't always the most economical long-term. Mid-range products often strike the perfect balance. Guests use less product when the quality is higher, and better products generally generate more positive reviews, potentially justifying a slightly higher cost-per-ounce.
Dispensers and Presentation
The delivery system is as important as the product. The main options include:
- Wall-mounted dispensers: Locking dispensers provide security but look more commercial, while designer non-locking options offer a luxurious aesthetic with less security.
- Freestanding pump bottles: These provide flexibility and can be easily changed to match seasonal decor or switched out between guests.
Your choice should complement your property's aesthetic when furnishing your vacation rental. A sleek, modern rental might benefit from minimalist wall-mounted dispensers, while a rustic cabin might look better with amber glass pump bottles that enhance the natural theme.
The 7 Best Bulk Shampoo and Conditioner Brands for Airbnbs
Here are our top picks for the best bulk shampoo and conditioner for Airbnb hosts, balancing quality, cost, and guest appeal. Verify prices and availability before purchasing.
Public Goods
Overview: Public Goods is known for minimalist aesthetics and commitment to healthy, sustainable products. Their black and white packaging offers a clean, gender-neutral design that fits any bathroom. Their formulations feature natural ingredients with subtle, universally appealing scents.
Why It's Great for STRs: The sleek, understated packaging looks curated rather than commercial, elevating your bathroom's appearance. The brand's focus on sustainability resonates with eco-conscious travelers, while the quality formulations provide a genuine salon-quality experience that guests appreciate.
Pros:
- Packaging that is minimalist and Instagram-worthy
- Tree-planting initiative with every purchase
- Refill pouches are available, reducing plastic waste.
- Formulations that are paraben-free and sulfate-free
Cons:
- Membership required for best pricing
- Limited scent options
- Higher price than some alternatives
Best for: Design-conscious hosts with mid-range to luxury properties targeting millennial travelers.
Beekman 1802
Overview: Beekman 1802 offers luxury, hotel-quality products based on their unique goat milk formulation. The brand was founded by two former city dwellers turned farmers, and it tells a compelling farm-to-skin luxury story that resonates with guests. Their products are in high-end hotels and boutiques nationwide.
Why It's Great for STRs: The Beekman brand communicates luxury and attention to detail. The goat milk formulation benefits skin and hair, leaving guests with a memorable, spa-like experience. The sophisticated scents and elegant packaging make your property feel like a boutique hotel.
Pros:
- Genuine luxury brand recognition
- A unique goat milk formulation that's gentle on sensitive skin.
- Beautiful packaging that enhances bathroom aesthetics
- A rich, moisturizing formula for dry climates.
Cons:
- Premium price
- Too feminine-presenting for properties targeting primarily male travelers
- Limited bulk size availability (contact for hospitality program)
Best for: Luxury properties with premium nightly rates where guest experience justifies higher amenity costs.
Pharmacopia
Overview: Pharmacopia specializes in natural, plant-based formulations for boutique hotels and high-end spas. Their products feature certified organic ingredients and essential oils.
Why It's Great for STRs: Pharmacopia delivers a genuine luxury hotel experience that sophisticated travelers will appreciate. The organic ingredients and subtle scents create a wellness-focused bathroom environment that feels indulgent and mindful.
Pros:
- Certified organic ingredients
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Established hospitality program with bulk options
- Upscale branding that photographs well for listings
Cons:
- Higher price
- Limited scent selection
- May require ordering through hospitality channels.
Best for: Wellness-focused properties, luxury rentals, and hosts wanting to recreate the boutique hotel experience.
Ginger Lily Farms
Overview: Ginger Lily Farms has established itself as the value champion in the bulk amenities space. They offer a variety of scents and formulations at a competitive price, without compromising on ingredient quality or performance.
Why It's Great for STRs: This brand offers exceptional cost-per-ounce value while maintaining quality standards that satisfy guests. Their diverse scent options allow you to customize the sensory experience in your rental, from energizing citrus to calming lavender.
Pros:
- Excellent cost-to-quality ratio
- A wide variety of scents and formulations
- Available in gallon sizes
- Free from parabens, sulfates, and phthalates
Cons:
- Less recognizable brand name
- Packaging is functional rather than design-forward.
- Some scents are stronger than luxury brands.
Best for: Budget-conscious hosts who manage multiple properties and need quality products at scale.
Soapbox
Overview: Soapbox combines quality formulations with a social mission. They donate a bar of soap to someone in need for every product purchased. Their formulations feature nourishing ingredients like shea butter, aloe vera, and natural oils in various appealing scents.
Why It's Great for STRs: The brand's mission-driven approach allows hosts to tell a positive story about their amenity choices, connecting with socially conscious travelers. The products deliver salon-quality results at a mid-range price.
Pros:
- Buy-one-give-one social impact model
- Quality ingredients at an affordable price
- Available at major retailers and online
- Formulations that are natural and cruelty-free
Cons:
- Limited bulk options (need to buy multiple 32oz bottles)
- Branding seems too casual for ultra-luxury properties.
- Scents can be polarizing.
Best for: Family-friendly rentals and properties marketing to socially conscious millennials and Gen Z travelers.
Avalon Organics
Overview: Avalon Organics is a trusted name in natural products. They offer certified organic formulations that emphasize botanical ingredients and essential oils. Their products meet strict environmental and health standards while delivering professional performance.
Why It's Great for STRs: Health-conscious travelers check ingredient labels, and Avalon's transparent formulations provide peace of mind. The brand is recognized for its commitment to organic ingredients, making it a safe choice for guests with sensitivities or those prioritizing natural products.
Pros:
- Organic ingredients
- No GMOs, parabens, harsh preservatives, or synthetic fragrances
- Biodegradable formulations
- Recognized brand in natural products
Pros:
- Limited scent options
- Botanically-based scents may not appeal to all guests.
- It is hard to find bulk sizes consistently.
Best for: Properties marketing themselves as eco-friendly, organic, or wellness-focused accommodations.
EO Products
Overview: EO Products specializes in essential oil-based personal care items that deliver aromatherapeutic benefits and cleaning power. Their products feature complex scent profiles derived from pure essential oils instead of synthetic fragrances.
Why It's Great for STRs: The aromatherapy aspect adds a wellness dimension to your guest experience. Scents like French Lavender or Grapefruit & Mint create memorable sensory experiences that enhance relaxation or energize guests, depending on your property's purpose.
Pros:
- Fragrances of pure essential oil
- Certified for ethical practices
- A family-owned business with strong values
- Gentle, sulfate-free formulations
Cons:
- Some guests may find essential oil scents strong.
- Higher price than conventional options
- May separate naturally, requiring occasional shaking.
Best for: Wellness retreats, romantic getaways, and properties emphasizing self-care and relaxation.
A Word from the Pros
Choosing vacation rental toiletries is more involved than grabbing the biggest bottle off the shelf. The reality of running a successful short-term rental involves juggling details like pricing, guest communication, cleaning schedules, and maintenance. Each decision affects your property's reputation and profitability.
At Checkmate Rentals, we handle all the details for you. Our full-service property management model takes the operational burden off your shoulders, from stocking guest bathroom essentials to maximizing your revenue. We ensure a 5-star experience for your guests, so you can focus on your investment. If you're ready to professionalize your property without the headache, learn more about our transparent co-hosting partnership.
Pro Tips for a Flawless Bulk Amenity System
Switching systems is easy with planning. Follow these best practices for a smooth transition:
- Choose the Right Dispenser: Revisit your options for a shower shampoo dispenser. For properties with security concerns, locking wall-mounted dispensers provide peace of mind. For luxury properties, consider heavyweight glass or ceramic pump bottles that feel substantial and high-end.
- Establish a Refill Protocol: Add "Check & Refill Dispensers" to your cleaner's checklist. Store gallon containers in a dedicated cleaning closet with a small funnel for neat refills. Mark "fill lines" on translucent dispensers for consistent levels.
- Communicate with Guests (Optional): A small note explaining your choice can transform a cost-saving measure into a guest benefit. For example, "We've selected premium, eco-friendly amenities in refillable dispensers to reduce plastic waste while providing you with salon-quality products." This communication frames your decision positively.
- Perform Deep Cleans: Schedule periodic maintenance for the dispensers. Every 1-2 months (depending on occupancy), empty, disassemble (if possible), and thoroughly clean dispensers to prevent product buildup, bacteria growth, or pump mechanism issues.
Conclusion
Switching to bulk shampoo and conditioner is a strategic decision that benefits your bottom line, streamlines operations, and reduces your environmental footprint. The key to success lies in selecting quality products and thoughtful presentations that enhance your 5-star guest experience.
With the right system, you'll save money, time, and resources while delighting your guests. This proves that the smarter business decision is also the better guest experience. Switch with confidence, knowing you're joining professional hosts who understand that success lies in these details.
