#United States #public restrooms #Menomonee Falls #handwashing survey #H3N2 Virus

Increased Handwashing During Flu Season: A New Survey's Insights

As the United States grapples with a challenging flu season, a recent survey conducted by Bradley Company reveals that anxiety about illness is prompting Americans to increase their hand hygiene practices significantly. In fact, the 2026 Healthy Handwashing Survey™ indicates that 70% of Americans express concern about contracting the flu, a noticeable increase from 59% three years prior. This growing apprehension is translating into more diligent handwashing habits among the general public.

Survey Findings: Hand Hygiene on the Rise

The survey found that during outbreaks of the flu and other seasonal viruses, 81% of Americans claim to wash their hands more frequently or thoroughly than usual, up from 74% in 2023. This data paints a picture of heightened awareness about the importance of handwashing, with nearly 93% of respondents recognizing it as a key factor in maintaining overall health. The act of handwashing is viewed as a simple yet effective method to reduce the transmission of illnesses, particularly during flu season. Dr. Brian M. Forster, a microbiologist and chemical hygiene officer at Saint Joseph's University, emphasized the crucial role handwashing plays, stating, "Our hands touch many surfaces throughout the day, including our faces, and can easily transfer germs that lead to illness."

Persistent Challenges in Public Restroom Hygiene

Despite the increased frequency of handwashing during flu outbreaks, the survey highlights a discrepancy in everyday hygiene practices, especially in public restrooms. Last year, 81% of Americans reported that they always washed their hands after using a public restroom. However, that figure has dropped to 76% in 2026. Although the average American claims to wash their hands eight times per day, there is notable variation between genders; women tend to wash their hands approximately double the frequency of men.

One alarming trend uncovered in the survey is that 77% of Americans have witnessed others leaving public restrooms without washing their hands, an increase from 68% in 2024. Furthermore, one in five respondents admits they are more likely to skip handwashing when alone, underscoring the influence of social accountability on hygiene habits. Strikingly, 44% of Americans concede to rinsing only with water instead of using soap, with men more likely than women to forgo proper handwashing techniques.

Jon Dommisse, vice president of business development at Bradley Company, pointed out that environmental factors significantly affect handwashing behavior. He noted that if a restroom appears unkempt or lacks sufficient supplies, it can discourage individuals from practicing proper hygiene at a moment when it's most essential for public health.

Addressing the Gap Between Awareness and Action

The findings from the 2026 Healthy Handwashing Survey reveal that while Americans are quick to adapt their handwashing habits during heightened flu activity, there is a persistent challenge in maintaining these behaviors in everyday settings. Health professionals continue to advocate for frequent handwashing—not just during outbreaks—as one of the most effective measures to prevent the spread of flu, colds, and various contagious diseases.

Conducted between January 5 and 16, 2026, the survey included responses from 1,020 American adults and sought to gain insights into handwashing habits, concerns about seasonal viruses, and behaviors in public restrooms. Participants represented a diverse demographic, with a near-equal split between women (55%) and men (44%).

Bradley Company has a long-standing history of manufacturing advanced washroom equipment and has been a pioneer in promoting hygiene in public areas for over a century. Their mission is to foster hygienic environments that safeguard public health, emphasizing the ongoing importance of proper hand hygiene practices.

For more information about Bradley Company and its hygiene initiatives, visit www.bradleycorp.com/handwashing.