Karen Ross, Onvation services business operations leader with Kimberly-Clark Professional, offers her five essentials for stadium restrooms to keep fans happy – and moving
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When fans head to a stadium, they come for the roar of the crowd, the thrill of the game, and the unforgettable moments. What don’t they come for? Long restroom lines, empty soap dispensers and awkward waits. Yet, the restroom experience can make or break any fan’s day. Stadiums that get it right are scoring big with guests.
Here are five MVP features every stadium restroom needs to keep fans moving and elevate the game-day experience:
1 – High-capacity dispensers
There’s nothing worse than running out of toilet paper or paper towels during halftime. High-capacity dispensers are designed to handle peak crowds, reducing the need for constant refills and keeping restrooms stocked when it matters most. The result? Short waits, clean spaces and happy fans who can get back to the action faster.
2 – Touchless fixtures
Today’s fans expect more than just soap and water, they want a touch-free experience that feels modern and hygienic. Touchless faucets, soap dispensers and paper towel systems speed up restroom flow and can also help reduce the spread of germs. Stadiums can take it up a notch with the use of sleek, branded dispensers that show off team pride or sponsor messages.
3 – Smart restroom tech
Imagine a restroom that alerts staff when supplies are low or when cleaning is needed — that’s the power of smart restroom technology. These systems enable stadium crews to stay ahead of issues, which helps ensure restrooms stay clean, stocked and ready for the next wave of fans. It’s a behind-the-scenes win that fans may not see, but they’ll feel.
4 – Clear signage and layouts
In a packed stadium, every second counts. Clear signage and intuitive restroom layouts help fans find what they need quickly —whether it’s a family restroom, accessible stall or baby-changing station. The easier it is to navigate the faster fans can get in and out without missing a play.
5 – Aesthetic Touches
Restrooms don’t have to be boring. From team-themed colors to sponsor-branded fixtures, stadiums are turning these spaces into extensions of the fan experience. A well-designed restroom can reinforce team spirit, offer sponsor visibility and leave a lasting impression for all the right reasons…
Restroom visits may be a small part of the stadium experience, but they leave a big impression. By investing in smart design, modern technology and thoughtful details, stadiums can turn a routine pit stop into a seamless, satisfying part of game day.
Because when fans spend less time in line and more time cheering, everybody wins.
