Locks ensure privacy and comfort for all those who need to use your toilets.
So, there’s nothing worse than going to use a public toilet, only to see the lock doesn’t work properly. In some cases, the lock may have been damaged or even stolen off its hinges. The user then has no way of locking the door so that they can use the bathroom in peace.
These types of experiences can leave a bad impression on patrons. For businesses, a poor toilet experience could even deter some users from returning to the premises at all.
So let’s ensure this never happens, by installing or upgrading your existing toilet cubicle locks.
When planning a commercial bathroom renovation, the best lock systems for your commercial environment type and budget will be discussed during the consultation stage. But before you reach out to us with your project details, let’s take an in-depth look at some of the most popular options for commercial toilet locks to show you what’s on offer.
Toilet Cubicle Locks: An Overview
It’s easy to overlook toilet cubicle locks. Yet, they are one of the most interacted with elements of any public toilet. It’s essential the locks work properly, are easy to operate and offer longevity.
In contrast, poorly constructed locks could fail early into their lifecycle. Low-quality locks also have the potential to trap people in the toilet including small children. So, it’s crucial to pay the same amount of attention to your cubicle locks as you would any other element of your commercial toilet.
Toilet cubicle locks and their inner components can be made from the likes of:
- Copper
- Dual finish
- Graphite
- Nickel
- Plastic
- Polished aluminium
- Polished brass
- Polished chrome
- Polished stainless steel
- Rubber
- Satin anodised aluminium
- Satin nickel
- Stainless steel
- Titanium
Each material type will have a different level of cost associated, as well as suitability. However, do keep in mind that for more premium materials, you will likely get a longer lifespan as a result.
On the flip side, cheap or flimsy locks will likely cause issues for your patrons and will be subject to more frequent repairs or replacements.
What You Need To Consider Before Choosing A Toilet Lock
Commercial toilet environment – Installing a new toilet cubicle in a high-end restaurant is different to installing a new toilet cubicle in a primary school. Not only will the style and design need to fit the environment, but the locks must suit the user demographics.
Typical usage levels – Toilets positioned in high-traffic areas such as transport hubs or shopping centres will be subject to all-day every day use. The locks must be able to withstand the usage levels they will be subjected to. Otherwise, it will cause delays in the washroom when the toilets won’t lock.
Ease of cleaning – Not all metals can have water or disinfectant applied to them. Likewise, some locks have lots of facets that make cleaning difficult. Commercial bathroom hygiene and overall cleanliness is important. So ensure your locks can be disinfected as they are a high touchpoint that’s easy to overlook.
Ease of repair – If your locks were to break or need adjusting, how easy would it be for your facilities manager to do so?
Moisture levels in the air – Commercial toilets in the likes of changing rooms or swimming pools will have excess moisture in the air. This may corrode some metals or encourage the growth of mould and bacteria. All materials used in the commercial bathroom must be suited to the environment type, and cubicles along with toilet locks are no exception.
Toilet Lock Types
There are endless toilet lock styles and designs to choose from, although we’ve narrowed down some of the most common types below.
Typically, a commercial toilet lock will be supplied with a lock as well as an indicator. If an indicator is supplied, then it will display a green or red indication on the outside of the door, to indicate whether or not the cubicle is vacant. Alternatively, you can opt for no indicator and just purchase the lock and handle.
Remember to also check whether you need an inward or opening toilet lock.
Disabled Toilet Lock
Disabled toilet locks feature large handles and easy open and closing mechanisms. Some designs may also have an emergency release. This means if someone is trapped inside the toilet (such as after having a medical episode), a coin or screwdriver can be used to twist the lock 90 degrees to allow the door to be opened from the outside.
Heavy Duty Toilet Lock
Made from ultra-robust features on the lever and handles so that the lock can withstand constant use in busy environments. Heavy-duty toilet locks may feel slightly heavier to operate, so they are best suited to adult use rather than in schools for example. But, they will continue to perform long after the commercial bathroom has been installed. We recommend pairing it with a high-quality cubicle door so that the heavy-duty lock will be installed in a robust door.
Lever Handle Mortice Lock
While other commercial cubicle locks have a sliding-level design or are turn-operated, you can also opt for a traditional lever handle. Levers can sometimes also be a feature in disabled toilet design, especially in terms of being able to open the toilet from the inside. One drawback is that a lever will add a large touchpoint into the bathroom. If it is not regularly disinfected, then a lever handle can become a breeding ground for bacteria.
Washroom cubicles Installed by Inspired Washrooms
Inspired Washrooms install commercial bathrooms across the UK. We can cover every aspect of your installation in great detail, including finding the most suitable cubicle door locks.
Interested in starting a project with us? Download our Inspired Washrooms Brochure to view our full range of products and services.
Or for help and advice with anything we’ve mentioned above, please get in touch on 0115 811 4242, and our friendly team will get back to you.