ACI survey finds many Americans still lack proper hand hygiene, launches video

Written on: April 1, 2020 by SprayTM

Despite the adoption of more thorough cleaning and disinfecting practices due to the COVID-19 outbreak, just over half (58%) of Americans are mindful of washing their hands for at least 20 seconds, and one in 10 have not made any changes to their hand hygiene practices, according to a new poll conducted in mid-March by Ipsos for the American Cleaning Institute (ACI).

The survey revealed 78% of respondents said they washed their hands with soap and water more frequently, while 46% were using hand sanitizers more often.

“In the midst of the coronavirus crisis, it’s an important time to re-emphasize proper hand washing habits, including washing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds,” said Melissa Hockstad, ACI President & CEO.

When asked what hygiene or cleaning products they have used more of since learning about the novel coronavirus, Americans said:

  •   Hand soap – 69%
  •   Hand sanitizer – 59%
  •   Multi-purpose disinfectant wipes – 44%
  •   Multi-purpose spray disinfectant – 36%
  •   Paper towels – 35%
  •   Toilet or bathroom cleaner – 23%
  •   Bleach – 9%
  •   None of these products – 12%

“It’s important for all of us to purchase these products as needed and use them properly and safely,” said Hockstad. “Soap, sanitizer and cleaning product manufacturers and their chemical and packaging suppliers are working tirelessly to get these products to market and to the institutions where there is the most critical need.”

ACI has created a new video that highlights proper hand hygiene and cleaning practices to combat the spread of the coronavirus: cleaninginstitute.org/coronavirus.