Survey Illustrates Why Clean Restrooms Are Good For Business
In a recent survey by Bradley Company, nearly 70% of Americans reported having a particularly unpleasant experience in a public restroom due to the poor condition of the facility. The top restroom aggravations included clogged or unflushed toilets; old, dirty or unkempt appearances; and unpleasant smells.
“Unfortunately, businesses that neglect restroom cleaning and maintenance are jeopardizing their customers’ repeat business and sales. Almost 60% of respondents said they believe an unclean restroom shows poor management, while 56% were left with a tarnished opinion of the business and half vowed not to return or would think twice about doing so,” according to a Bradley Company press release.
“On the other hand, 62% of Americans said they make a point to stop at businesses with clean and well-maintained bathrooms when they need to use the facilities, and nearly 60% willingly spend more money there.”
Those findings are based on a 2024 survey of more than 1,000 American adults conducted by Bradley, a leading manufacturer of commercial washroom fixtures. Bradley has conducted the Healthy Handwashing Survey™ for 15 years to monitor the state of public restrooms and perceptions surrounding them, as well as Americans’ handwashing habits.
“While 43% of Americans believe the overall condition of public restrooms has improved over the past 15 years, that leaves 57% who remain unimpressed,” Bradley Company Vice President of Business Development And Strategy Jon Dommisse said. “Our research shows that business owners with subpar restrooms are leaving untapped sales opportunities on the table.”