Growing Handwashing Habits Among Americans During Flu Season Raise Concerns About Hygiene

Increased Handwashing Amid Flu Season Concern

The onset of the cold and flu season ushers in a surge of health consciousness among Americans, particularly regarding handwashing habits. According to the annual Healthy Handwashing Survey conducted by Bradley Company, there is a notable rise in the number of individuals who are diligent about their hand hygiene during this time. Approximately 79% of Americans report that they are washing their hands more frequently or thoroughly, a slight increase from the previous year. This shift in behavior reflects growing public concern about health risks associated with seasonal viruses.

In January 2025, the survey revealed that a growing majority, 65%, express varying levels of concern about the flu—up from just 53% nine years prior. This heightened awareness is accompanied by an understanding that effective handwashing is crucial for preventing illness. Remarkably, 93% of respondents consider handwashing important for their health and cite an average handwashing frequency of 7.5 times per day. Interestingly, people are more likely to wash their hands in public spaces (37%) compared to their home environments (20%). The survey indicated that nearly half of the participants maintain similar diligence regardless of the setting.

Medical microbiologist Dr. Michael P. McCann emphasizes the significance of proper handwashing techniques, stating, "Using soap and warm water is an effective means to minimize the spread of disease-causing organisms, including the flu virus." Despite the rising awareness, the survey highlighted a troubling trend: nearly 8 out of 10 Americans have observed others neglecting hand hygiene in public restrooms, a behavior that has increased from 68% the previous year. While 81% claim they always wash their hands after utilizing public facilities, a significant portion of younger individuals (18-24 years) reported lower compliance rates (70%) compared to older adults (92% among those aged 55+).

Further complicating the narrative is the fact that 45% of Americans admit to merely rinsing their hands with water instead of using soap. More men (53%) than women (38%) engage in this shortcut. The issue extends to children, as many parents express concern about their kids' handwashing habits; 38% do not believe their children wash their hands adequately. Only 25% of parents think their kids wash their hands consistently when prompted.

The Challenges of Public Restrooms

Numerous hurdles prevent effective handwashing in public restrooms. The most common reasons cited for skipping this essential practice include a lack of soap, paper towels, or clean sinks, overcrowded facilities, and unpleasant odors. Jon Dommisse from Bradley Company notes, "Maintaining clean and adequately stocked restrooms can significantly influence handwashing habits." He elaborates that a subpar restroom experience can negatively impact the public perception of a business. A staggering 84% of surveyed individuals stated that encountering an unclean restroom affects their overall impression of a business.

The Healthy Handwashing Survey, which queried 1,032 American adults from January 3-14, 2025, was designed to gain insights into handwashing behaviors and concerns related to seasonal illnesses. The demographics of the survey were rather balanced, comprising 54% women and 45% men, with 1% of respondents identifying as other.

In conclusion, while the increased handwashing frequency during the flu season is a step towards better public health, the reported behaviors of individuals bypassing this critical hygiene practice in public spaces remain concerning. Amidst these challenges, it's clear that education on the importance of handwashing and improvement in public restroom conditions are essential to fostering a healthier community. More information about the survey and healthy practices can be found on Bradley Company's website.

Bradley Company has been a leading provider of advanced commercial washroom solutions for over a century, continuously striving to create hygienic and safe public environments. Their innovative products include the highly-rated WashBar touchless handwashing and drying fixture, alongside various washroom accessories and safety solutions.