#Japan #Tokyo #LOBBY #household chores #dual-income

Introduction

A significant survey conducted by LOBBY, a service by LOBBY Co., Ltd., unveils that over 70% of individuals aged between 20 to 50, working in dual-income households, report dissatisfaction or stress stemming from daily household chores. This extensive research sheds light on the burden of housework and the nuances of chore-sharing between partners, as well as the current realities of using cleaning services.

Background

With the rise of women's participation in the workforce and an increase in dual-income households, issues regarding the unequal distribution of household responsibilities have gained prominence. In Japan, a cultural belief still persists that hiring help for chores is extravagant and that housework should be handled by the family itself, contrasting sharply with practices in many Western countries. This cultural mindset sometimes creates a gap between actual need and the adoption of service solutions. Thus, LOBBY undertook a comprehensive survey to explore the situation in dual-income households regarding chores.

Survey Summary

• - Over 70% of respondents report feeling some level of dissatisfaction or stress related to daily chores.
• - More than half of them share household responsibilities with their partners.
• - Around 40% are dissatisfied with their current chores division.
• - Over half feel that chores diminish their free time or lead to disputes with their partners.
• - Approximately 20% of the respondents have experience using cleaning services.
• - The top three concerns about utilizing cleaning services include: high costs, the belief that chores should be handled personally, and discomfort allowing outsiders into their homes.

In-Depth Analysis

The survey, conducted from June 25 to June 27, 2025, targeted 330 full-time employed individuals aged 20 to 50, examining their feelings about daily chores. When asked about their dissatisfaction or stress due to daily tasks like cleaning, washing, and cooking, 33.0% expressed feeling slightly stressed, 25.1% felt stressed, and 14.9% stated they felt stressed continuously. The cumulative result indicates that over 70% of employed respondents in dual-income households experience some level of stress regarding household chores.

In terms of sharing responsibilities, the survey asked how chores were divided among partners. Results showed 37.0% handle nearly all chores themselves, 29.1% split them evenly, and 24.5% have established specific roles within the household. This indicates that a majority of respondents actively engage in chore-sharing, fostering collaboration in managing home life.

Surprisingly, approximately 40% of participants reported some dissatisfaction with the current chore-sharing arrangement. Many expressed frustration, leading to feelings of insufficient personal time or instances of arguments with their spouses. Specifically, 50% admitted their housework often interferes with personal time or escalates conflict.

Further highlighting the challenge of domestic responsibilities, about 20% of respondents acknowledged having used cleaning services in the past, with 82.1% stating they never have. While 7.3% had previously used such services regularly, and 6.4% had tried them on a few occasions. The reluctance to engage the services seems evident, as the reasons resonate strongly with individuals’ beliefs about household management.

Concerns Surrounding Cleaning Services

The survey delved into the perceived barriers to utilizing cleaning services. A notable 38.5% indicated they would consider using these services but are concerned about costs. Additionally, 19.1% believe they should perform household tasks, while 14.8% are hesitant to permit outsiders into their homes. This highlights a compelling need for services that address both affordability and comfort levels for potential users.

Conclusion

In summary, the findings reveal widespread stress and dissatisfaction regarding household chores among individuals in dual-income households, with a significant portion feeling the negative impact of domestic responsibilities on their personal lives. It is evident that a large segment of the population is open to assistance but is held back by concerns over cost and traditional views of household roles. LOBBY aims to address these challenges by offering tailored cleaning services that respect individuals' lifestyles, ultimately seeking to provide greater freedom and a more balanced home life for working couples.

About LOBBY

LOBBY offers customized cleaning solutions throughout Tokyo and the Kansai area, promoting a balanced work-life dynamic for dual-income families. For more information on their services, please visit their website at LOBBY.