Women Outperform Men in Hand Hygiene Practices Nationwide
Bradley's Healthy Handwashing Survey Highlights Gender Differences
In light of World Hand Hygiene Day, Bradley Company has published new insights through its annual Healthy Handwashing Survey. This survey indicates that women are taking the lead when it comes to hand hygiene practices in public settings.
The Importance of Handwashing Among Americans
The 2025 survey, which involved over 1,000 American adults, underlines a universal agreement on the importance of handwashing for overall health among both genders. However, the practices reveal that women are significantly more attentive to their handwashing habits, particularly in public restrooms.
Survey Findings on Handwashing Behavior
Results from the survey show that an impressive 85% of women consistently wash their hands after using public facilities, whereas only 77% of men follow suit. Additionally, women's vigilance extends to instances of contact with sick individuals; 43% declare they wash their hands afterward, compared to 34% of their male counterparts.
Daily Handwashing Frequencies
On average, women wash their hands around eight times a day, while men manage to wash theirs seven times daily. Despite these commendable figures, some admission of imperfection persists, as 38% of women and a higher 53% of men admit to sometimes rinsing without soap.
Jon Dommisse, vice president of business development and strategy at Bradley, emphasizes the significance of effective handwashing. He states, "Handwashing with soap is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect ourselves and others from illness. While 93% of all Americans believe handwashing is essential, our extensive research shows women consistently outperform men in this vital habit, particularly in public settings."
Public Restroom Preferences and Gender Factors
The survey not only delves into handwashing habits but also uncovers preferences for public restrooms. Women tend to prioritize privacy and cleaner facilities, showing a strong inclination for enhancements like shelves for personal items. A concerning finding highlights that nearly 75% of respondents feel that public restroom stalls lack adequate privacy, with 60% of women advocating for reduced gaps in stall doors and walls compared to 44% of men.
Awareness of Cleanliness
Women are notably more observant of the cleanliness in restrooms, being more likely to notice issues such as unflushed toilets and unpleasant odors. In fact, 56% of women affirm that well-maintained restrooms increase their likelihood of returning to businesses, compared to only 50% of men.
Precautionary Measures Against Germs
When it comes to germ avoidance, women exhibit a higher tendency to take precautionary measures, including using paper towels to prevent contact with handles, using their feet to flush, and being cautious about toilet seat hygiene.
Encouragement to Reassess Hand Hygiene on World Hand Hygiene Day
In honor of World Hand Hygiene Day, Bradley encourages individuals to reflect on their handwashing routines by following a three-step procedure. This includes washing hands with soap and water for 20 seconds while ensuring that all areas, including the backs of hands, are scrubbed properly. Lastly, it’s essential to dry hands completely using a clean towel or air dryer.
Domisse adds, "World Hand Hygiene Day serves as a timely reminder of the impact small actions can have on public health. Simple habits, such as proper handwashing and maintaining cleanliness in restrooms, can significantly contribute to public well-being."
For 16 years, the Healthy Handwashing Survey has played a pivotal role in capturing the evolving landscape of hand hygiene practices and attitudes among Americans.
About Bradley Company
Bradley has stood as a leader in commercial washrooms and emergency safety solutions for over a century. Renowned for innovation, the company introduced the WashBar, the industry's first touchless handwashing and drying fixture. Bradley's extensive range includes washroom accessories, partitions, and electric tankless heaters. With its base in Wisconsin, Bradley, a subsidiary of Watts Water Technologies, caters to various markets worldwide in the commercial, institutional, and industrial sectors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the survey indicate about women's handwashing habits?
The survey indicates that women are more diligent in their handwashing habits compared to men, with 85% stating they consistently wash their hands in public restrooms.
How does gender affect perceptions of public restrooms?
The survey reveals that women prioritize privacy and cleanliness more than men, wanting improvements in public restroom facilities.
What are some of the cleanliness issues noted by respondents?
Women are notably more aware of unclean conditions such as unflushed toilets and unpleasant odors in restrooms.
What encouragement does Bradley provide for hand hygiene?
Bradley encourages individuals to review their handwashing practices, recommending a three-step process for effective hand hygiene.
How long has the Healthy Handwashing Survey been conducted?
This survey has been conducted annually for 16 years to track American hand hygiene practices and attitudes.
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