Choosing the right dip tube length helps your lotion pumps work smoothly. It ensures the product flows well and fully. A dip tube that's too short won't reach the bottom. One that's too long might bend or clog.
Lotion pumps are used for shampoos, soaps, conditioners, and skincare. Getting the dip tube right improves product access and output. This helps reduce waste and creates a better user experience.
Whether you use a ribbed lotion pump, smooth lotion pump, or treatment pumps, tube length matters. Measure carefully before you start production. For better results, use custom dip tube lengths matched to your bottles.
Measuring dip tube length for lotion pumps
Start by measuring from the top of the neck finish to the bottom of the bottle. This gives you the total internal height. Make sure to measure straight down, not at an angle.
Subtract a few millimeters so the tube doesn’t touch the bottom. This helps the pump avoid blockages. Standard neck sizes like 24-410 or 28/410" are common in many bottles.
If you’re unsure, cut the new tube to 4 inches. Then test it with the product. You can always shorten the dip tube or replace it with a longer dip tube later.
Understanding pump compatibility with containers
Different pumps need different dip tube lengths. For example, a lock-up lotion pump or lock-down lotion pump may sit higher on the bottle. This changes how long the dip tube needs to be.
The pump’s style also matters. A push rotating lock mechanism or friction closure adds height. So do collars or neck lock caps. Always account for these when measuring.
Bottle shape also affects the dip tube. Round, square, or cylinder bottles all vary inside. For best results, measure each style before cutting your plastic dip tube.
Choosing materials for dip tubes and pumps
Dip tubes are usually made from polypropylene or polyethylene. These plastics resist damage from soaps, skincare, and other liquids. They also work well for lotions and syrups.
Use materials that match your product. For example, HDPE or PET plastic bottles often pair with polypropylene dip tubes. The goal is safe, clean dispensing.
In larger bottles or drums, you may use hose barb fittings and extra-strong tubing. These setups often appear in industrial liquid applications. They also appear in high-volume liquid applications.
Common dip tube adjustments and customization
Sometimes, the original dip tube doesn't work. You might need to rework dip tubes to fit a new bottle. This means cutting them shorter or using a longer tube.
It’s important to test the output. Pumps like the plastic lotion pump or high-performance lotion pump need precise dip tube sizing. So do foamer pumps, trigger sprayers, and fine mist sprayers.
Check the fit with all pump parts. Make sure the gasket, collar, and orifice connect well. Poor fittings can cause leaks or reduce output.
Checklist for choosing dip tube length
- Measure the inside height of the bottle
- Subtract a few millimeters for clearance
- Match to the pump style and neck finish
- Test the pump’s output (e.g., 1.2 cc or 2 cc)
- Use strong, safe materials like polypropylene
Applications across bottle types and pump styles
Dip tubes are used in many pump types. These include plastic treatment pumps, foamer pumps, and disinfectant pumps. Each style may need a different dip tube length.
Bottles also vary. You’ll find dip tubes in boston round bottles, semi-opaque plastic bottles, and spray bottles. The tube must fit each one properly.
Dip tubes also help with products like liquid hand soap, skincare, food products, and pharmaceuticals. Custom tubing improves output and reduces waste.
They’re also used in roto-molded LLDPE containers and plastic tubing projects. If you're working with specialty pumps or large volumes, choose custom extruded products.
For help with your dip tubes, pumps, or containers, contact us.