The Hygiene Gap: Why Americans Skip Handwashing Despite Knowing Better

Bradley Company’s 2026 Healthy Handwashing Survey reveals that while awareness is high, actual compliance is trending downward. The number of people who consistently wash their hands after using a public restroom dropped to 76% this year, down from 81% in 2025. Nearly half of respondents admit to skipping soap entirely, choosing instead to rinse with water. Jon Dommisse, vice president of business development at Bradley, notes that distractions and perceived lack of time often override health priorities, particularly when individuals believe they are not being observed.

The Role of Public Infrastructure

Behavioral lapses are not solely a matter of personal discipline; the state of public facilities plays a major role. Empty soap dispensers, broken sinks, and absent paper towels are primary deterrents for users. The data shows that 77% of Americans have witnessed others exit a restroom without washing, and one in five confess they are more likely to bypass the sink when they are alone. To combat these trends, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention continues to emphasize the 20-second scrubbing rule, noting that soap and water remain superior to sanitizers for removing specific pathogens like norovirus. Employers and facility managers are encouraged to prioritize the maintenance of washrooms to ensure that hygiene is a convenient default rather than an optional chore.