As the flu season intensifies in the United States, there has been a notable shift in hand hygiene practices among Americans. According to the latest findings from the 2026 Healthy Handwashing Survey, conducted by the Bradley Company, 70% of respondents express heightened concern about contracting the flu, an increase from 59% in 2023. This growing awareness has led to improved handwashing habits, with 81% of Americans indicating they wash their hands more frequently or thoroughly during flu outbreaks and seasonal virus surges.
The survey highlights a significant evolution in public attitudes towards hand hygiene. In 2009, only 45% of Americans reported increasing their handwashing in response to seasonal virus concerns; now, that figure has risen dramatically. Brian M. Forster, Ph.D., a microbiologist and chemical hygiene officer at Saint Joseph’s University, emphasized the importance of this practice, stating, “Handwashing, using soap and warm water, is one of the simplest and most effective ways to reduce the spread of disease, including the flu.”
Despite the positive trends, challenges persist, particularly in public restrooms. The survey reveals that while 81% of Americans claimed they always wash their hands after using a public restroom last year, that number has declined to 76% in 2026. This inconsistency points to a disconnect between awareness of health benefits and actual behavior in everyday settings.
Another troubling statistic emerged: more than three-quarters of respondents (77%) reported witnessing others leave public restrooms without washing their hands, an increase from 68% in 2024. Furthermore, one in five individuals admitted they are more likely to skip handwashing when they believe no one is watching. The survey also indicated that men are more likely than women to forgo soap, with 50% of men opting to rinse with water alone compared to 38% of women.
Inadequate restroom conditions further complicate the situation. Jon Dommisse, vice president of business development and strategy for Bradley Company, noted that the state of a public restroom can heavily influence handwashing decisions. “If a restroom appears poorly maintained or understocked, it can discourage proper handwashing – at exactly the moment when it matters most for public health.”
Overall, the findings from the 2026 Healthy Handwashing Survey illustrate a clear understanding among Americans of the importance of hand hygiene, particularly during flu outbreaks. Yet, sustaining these habits in public settings remains a significant challenge. Health experts continue to stress that consistent, thorough handwashing is crucial for reducing the spread of flu, colds, and other contagious illnesses.
The survey, which queried 1,020 American adults from January 5 to 16, 2026, provides a comprehensive look at handwashing habits and concerns about seasonal viruses. Participants were evenly split between women (55%) and men (44%). For more information, visit www.bradleycorp.com/handwashing.
For over 100 years, Bradley has been a leader in advanced commercial washrooms and emergency safety solutions aimed at creating hygienic and safe public environments. Based in Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin, the company continues to innovate with products like the WashBar, a multi-function touchless handwashing and drying fixture, among others.
