Bradley Survey: Clean Restrooms Drive Repeat Business and Higher Spending
Key Highlights
- 68% of customers are more likely to return to businesses with clean restrooms
- Dirty restrooms drive away business, with 73% reconsidering return visits
- Touchless fixtures now expected, with nearly 80% of users valuing hands-free technology
MENOMONEE FALLS, WI — The condition of a public restroom can directly impact customer retention and spending, according to the 2026 Healthy Handwashing Survey™ from Bradley Company.
The survey found that 68% of Americans are more likely to return to—and spend more at—businesses with clean, well-maintained restrooms, highlighting the role facility maintenance plays in overall business performance.
Restroom Quality Reflects Overall Facility Standards
Bradley’s data shows that restroom conditions shape how customers view an entire operation.
- 86% of US adults expect restroom quality to reflect the quality of goods and services
- 85% report a negative impression of businesses with dirty restrooms
- 73% say poor restroom conditions make them reconsider returning
“Restroom conditions are a visible reflection of overall facility management,” said Jon Dommisse, Vice President of Business Development and Strategy at Bradley Company. “When restrooms are clean, reliable, and easy to use, they build user confidence and reinforce trust in the entire building environment. For facility leaders, that makes restroom design and maintenance a strategic investment that supports both hygiene outcomes and business performance.”
Cleanliness and Maintenance Drive User Behavior
Cleanliness remains the top priority for restroom users, with expectations centered on:
- Clean fixtures and dry floors
- Fully stocked soap, paper towels and toilet paper
- Reliable, functioning sinks and dispensers
When those expectations aren’t met, users change their behavior. The survey found:
- 65% avoid touching surfaces using paper towels or clothing
- Nearly 60% limit fluid intake to avoid using public restrooms
Operational issues—like empty dispensers or out-of-order sinks—were also cited as key reasons users skip handwashing altogether.
First Impressions Start in the Restroom
Restroom conditions can influence customer decisions early in the visit. About 40% of Americans check a restroom before deciding whether to do business at a location.
Clean, well-maintained facilities reinforce trust, while poor conditions can quickly damage brand perception.
“These findings highlight the importance of consistency,” Dommisse said. “Maintaining clean, functional, and well-stocked restrooms is not just about upkeep—it’s about protecting brand perception and supporting customer confidence at every touchpoint.”
Touchless Fixtures Improve Hygiene and User Confidence
Touchless technology continues to gain traction as a standard feature in commercial restrooms.
- Nearly 80% of Americans say touchless fixtures are important
- A similar percentage say they improve the overall experience
- About 80% express confidence in their reliability
“Touchless fixtures have become an expected feature in today’s restrooms,” added Dommisse. “They not only support hygiene, but also improve ease of use and maintenance efficiency—helping facilities deliver a more consistent and reliable experience.”
Meeting Rising Expectations for Facility Performance
Bradley said the findings reinforce a growing expectation for clean, reliable and easy-to-maintain restrooms, making them a key factor in customer satisfaction and long-term business success.
About the Survey
The 2026 Healthy Handwashing Survey™ polled 1,020 U.S. adults from Jan. 5–16, 2026. Conducted annually since 2009, the survey tracks public attitudes and behaviors related to handwashing, hygiene and restroom conditions.
For more information, visit www.bradleycorp.com/handwashing.