In today’s world, washroom hygiene is an important factor influencing how customers perceive a brand, company, or public space. In places like restaurants, malls, airports, hospitals, and offices, a clean and well-maintained washroom reflects the organization's values and culture. It shows professionalism and respect for visitors. 

A clean, fresh, and well-stocked restroom makes customers feel comfortable and valued, which builds trust and satisfaction. On the other hand, dirty washrooms, bad smells, or empty supplies can lead to negative reviews, fewer visitors, and damage to the company's reputation. 

According to a 2025 study by Bradley Corporation, 84% of people believe a dirty or poorly stocked restroom harms a business's image, and 75% would think twice about returning after a bad restroom experience. However, 71% are more likely to return and spend more at places with clean facilities. These findings highlight a universal truth—expectations may vary across cultures and regions, requiring businesses to tailor their approach for international visitors. 

Organizations should adjust their restroom practices to meet the expectations of visitors from Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and North America, making them feel welcomed. 

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, expectations have increased. Visitors now prefer clean, touch-free washrooms and regular cleaning. Cleanliness is now critical for customer loyalty and competitiveness.  

A trained janitor is important for maintaining hygiene and must be trained and empowered to meet hygiene standards and provide excellent experiences. With changing standards and new technologies, training methods must be updated. 

Staff should learn safety measures, infection control, PPE use, eco-friendly cleaning products, and hygiene guidelines. With smart restroom technologies like sensors and automated cleaning systems, training ensures staff can use tools effectively and resolve technical issues. 

Alongside janitors, facility managers, and technology providers play a key role in designing processes, monitoring performance, and maintaining efficient restrooms. Appreciations and

incentives motivate staff. However, even the most dedicated team needs proper infrastructure—smart layouts and reliable fixtures—to sustain high standards. 

A holistic approach is needed to maintain hygienic washrooms: restroom design, user-centric facilities, smart fixtures, regular cleaning, maintenance, ensuring essential supplies, and using monitoring technology to improve effectiveness and sustainability. Helps in building trust and satisfaction among users. 

However, implementing such a holistic strategy can be challenging, especially in high-traffic venues where usage far exceeds typical cleaning cycles. 

Keeping washrooms clean is getting harder as customer expectations rise. Frequent cleaning and smart monitoring are essential to meet demands. Touchless fixtures improve hygiene, but their high cost can limit use. AI and IoT can manage cleaning schedules based on usage, helping maintain cleaner facilities. 

Sustainable hygiene solutions such as low-flow fixtures, waterless urinals, energy-efficient hand dryers, and recyclable supplies reduce environmental impact while meeting customer expectations. 

The future of hygiene management lies in efficient use of technology, adopting sustainable ways, and understanding the customer needs. Smart sensors, IoT monitoring, eco-friendly products, and accessible facilities will improve hygiene and make restrooms better for everyone. The companies adopting these new solutions will stand out from the competition, making hygiene a key part of their brand trust and operational success.

About the author:
Sarika Sakuja is the General Manager of the World Toilet Organization.