Study Reveals The Need For Improved Public Restroom Hygiene
New research released by hygiene product company Tork, an Essity brand, shines light on the difficulties Americans have in staying hygienic while using public restrooms in the United States.
According to data gathered by Tork:
- Almost 1 in 3 Americans faced barriers to washing their hands in public restrooms.
- Around 1 in 5 experienced difficulties using soap or hand towel dispensers due to an injury, health condition, physical capability, or as a parent with a child.
- 1 in 7 cited loud noises as a source of difficulty, either personally or when assisting a child when using public restrooms.
- More than 1 in 3 viewed lack of cleanliness as a barrier to using workplace or public restrooms.
The research also found that more than 60% of individuals surveyed have a lesser opinion of businesses or venues that provide hand hygiene facilities that are challenging to use. Almost one-third of guests at high-traffic venues (such as sport stadiums) said they limit how much they eat or drink to avoid going to restrooms.
To heighten awareness of these issues, Tork has created a “paper towel plea” campaign, through which the company is distributing paper towels printed with hand-written notes from individuals who face restroom barriers related to age, neurodiversity, skin sensitivities, and hygiene-related concerns.
Tork also announced its goal to advance hygiene inclusivity in the restroom at Reuters Events’ Responsible Business USA 2024, where the brand joined sustainability, legal, communications, and finance leaders to explore how organizations can improve the environmental and societal sustainability of their operations and solutions. To learn more about Tork’s “paper towel plea” campaign, click here.