#United States #Hand Hygiene #Menomonee Falls #Bradley Company #Healthy Handwashing Survey

Survey Highlights Gender Differences in Handwashing Practices

In a recent study conducted by Bradley Company, insights into hand hygiene have revealed striking gender disparities in handwashing habits among Americans. Released in conjunction with World Hand Hygiene Day on May 5, the 2025 Healthy Handwashing Survey™ indicates that women exhibit a commendable diligence in maintaining hand hygiene, particularly in public facilities.

The survey, which polled over 1,000 adults, underlined the critical link between effective handwashing practices and overall health. Findings show that an impressive 85% of women claimed they consistently wash their hands after utilizing public restrooms, in contrast to 77% of men. Moreover, women's attentiveness extends beyond just restroom visits; 43% of women also reported washing their hands after being around sick individuals, compared to only 34% of the male respondents.

Interestingly, while women wash their hands about eight times per day, men report an average of seven times. Despite this, both genders acknowledge lapses in their practices. Approximately 38% of women stated they sometimes skip soap and merely rinse with water, a figure considerably lower than the 53% of men who admit to the same behavior.

The Importance of Handwashing

Jon Dommisse, the vice president at Bradley, emphasized the significance of proper hand hygiene. He stated, "Handwashing with soap is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect ourselves and others from illness." The survey corroborates that a vast majority, 93% of Americans, recognize the importance of handwashing, yet, consistent adherence to this practice varies significantly between genders.

Insights into Public Restroom Preferences

Beyond handwashing, the survey also illuminated differences in how genders perceive public restrooms. Women generally prioritize cleanliness and privacy more than their male counterparts. Nearly 75% of respondents expressed concern over inadequate privacy in restroom stalls, with 60% of women highlighting the need to eliminate gaps around doors and walls, compared to 44% of men. Moreover, women's sensitivity to unsanitary conditions, such as unflushed toilets and unpleasant odors, is notably higher.

In terms of business practices, 56% of women claimed that clean, well-maintained restrooms influence their decision to revisit establishments, a sentiment shared by 50% of men. Additionally, behaviors aimed at germ avoidance differ across the sexes, with women adopting various strategies to minimize contact with possibly unclean surfaces, like using paper towels to handle restroom features and opting to hover above toilet seats.

Encouraging Better Hand Hygiene Habits

As part of Bradley's initiative for World Hand Hygiene Day, the company is urging the public to reassess and improve their handwashing habits. They recommend a simple but effective approach:
1. Wash hands vigorously for 20 seconds using soap and water.
2. Ensure to scrub not just the palms but also the backs of hands, between fingers, and beneath nails.
3. Completely dry hands using a clean towel or air dryer.

The importance of these practices cannot be understated. Dommisse noted, “World Hand Hygiene Day reminds us how minor actions can significantly impact public health. By promoting handwashing with soap and maintaining clean restroom environments, we can make substantial strides in health safety.”

A Historical Commitment to Hygiene

The Healthy Handwashing Survey has been an annual undertaking for 16 years, constantly tracking the hand hygiene practices of Americans. Through this initiative, Bradley Company continues to advocate for cleaner and safer environments within public facilities, reinforcing its commitment to making a positive impact.

For more detailed insights and resources, visit bradleycorp.com/handwashing.

About Bradley: With over a century of experience, Bradley Company stands as a leading provider of sophisticated commercial washroom solutions and emergency safety systems, dedicated to enhancing public hygiene and safety.