Tork, a global leader in professional hygiene and an Essity brand, has released new guidance aimed at helping businesses transform their washrooms into assets that enhance user satisfaction and benefit business performance.
Citing research that indicates a significant gap in user and cleaner satisfaction, Tork recommendations focus on improving inclusive hygiene, environmental sustainability and operational efficiency.
Olivia Slater, Commercial Director, Professional Hygiene at Essity, said: “Our data shows that when washroom users and cleaners’ needs aren’t met, a business can suffer as people spend less time and/or money there. With three in four people concerned about washroom hygiene (Tork Insight Survey 2025), and one in two likely to face barriers to meeting their needs, small, targeted updates to the washroom – the most visited room in a facility – can make a substantial difference for both users and cleaning staff.”
Washroom visitors (survey respondents) cited several requirements for a washroom that exemplifies inclusive hygiene, meeting the needs of as many as possible. When the following ‘must have’ elements are provided, the majority (59%) of people say a business can improve its positive image:
- Toilet paper and paper hand towels in dispensers that are easy to grasp (67% said these are a ‘must have’)
- Spaces and design elements that enable privacy (63%)
- Disposal bins in the stall for personal items including incontinence and menstrual products (60%)
- Physical accessibility – including grab bars and ramps – for everyone (58%)
- The availability of paper hand towels (57%)
- Features in public washrooms that enable caregivers to meet their needs (40%) such as changing tables
The washroom is an overlooked place for reducing environmental impact yet 67% of people want washroom managers to prioritise environmental sustainability (Tork Insight Survey 2024). Tork recommends the following actions:
- Promote sustainability practices with signs in the washroom; Tork offers free resources.
- Ensure teams understand the importance of responsible sourcing and look for third-party certified products. Tork offers free training and educational assets for everyone.
- Control consumption with one at a time dispensing to reduce waste.
- Support sustainability goals – avoid the landfill with recyclable packaging and recycling schemes like Tork PaperCircle paper towel recycling.
To empower cleaning staff, many of whom feel unsupported, and enhance guest experiences, Tork recommends:
- Working smarter with data-driven cleaning which identifies service needs in a facility.
- Installing high-capacity dispensers that reduce the need for frequent refills, allowing cleaning staff to focus more on cleaning rather than refilling.
- Using compressed towels for refills to serve more guests before cleaners need to refill again.
- Sourcing products with ergonomic packaging including Tork Easy Handling packaging for easier carrying, opening and disposal.
Olivia continued: “By addressing these critical aspects, businesses can help washroom users and cleaners meet their basic needs and deliver an experience that meets the needs of as many as possible. Investing thoughtfully in inclusive hygiene, sustainability and operational support not only meets evolving public expectations, but also improves business performance.”
Tork helps businesses realise the benefit of sustainable hygiene with a focus on four key areas: materials & packaging, use & waste, carbon and hygiene for all.
