Consumers Continue to Avoid Public Restrooms Due to COVID-19

Prior to the coronavirus pandemic, many people did not like using public restrooms. However, their distrust of public restrooms has increased even more in the midst of a pandemic, according to a recent survey.

In September, 1,000 American adults were surveyed on what they expect of the post-COVID public restrooms environment by Big Red Rooster and ENGINE Insights.

Survey results found that:

• 98% of respondents believe restroom cleanliness is important.
• 42% have used public restrooms less than they did before the pandemic.
• One-third have left a public restroom without using it due to lack of cleanliness.
• 36% plan shorter shopping trips to avoid using public restrooms.
• 9% have used portable toilets to avoid public restrooms.
• 12% said they or family members have gone to the restroom outdoors to avoid public restrooms.
• 15% report holding their breath when using public restrooms.

“Consumers are constantly thinking about safety. Especially when it comes to the cleanliness of public restrooms,” said Emily Albright Miller, vice president of Strategy at Big Red Rooster.

David Albert, managing director at ENGINE Insights, said that organizations and brands need “to commit to the amenities that help consumers feel safer in public restrooms.”