Figure 1: America’s Hand-washing Habits

2006 Soap and Detergent Association Survey

Approximately how many times do you wash your hands on an average day? 

• 1–2 times 5%
• 3–4 times 11%
• 5–6 times 18%
• 7–10 times 24%
• More than 10 times 42%
• Don’t know 2%

When you wash your hands, how long do you typically lather them or rub them with soap?

• Less than 10 seconds 13%
• 10–15 seconds 32%
• 15–20 seconds 21%
• More than 20 seconds 28%
• Don’t know 3%

How often do you wash your hands after going to the bathroom?

• Always 92%
• Frequently 5%
• Seldom 2%
• Never 1%

How often do you wash your hands before eating lunch?

• Always 68%
• Frequently 20%
• Seldom 8%
• Never 2%
• Don’t know 2%