Why is feminine hygiene important in public restrooms?

14 December 2017

Hygiene has been a rising personal awareness concern among users, particularly females who are exposed to feminine hygiene risks within the washroom cubicle itself. There is a critical shift to a necessity, embedding the right culture in practicing optimal hygiene among individuals.

In recent publicity and social media views, negative comments relating to public restroom hygiene experiences often arise such as dirty, wet and smelly washroom complaints. These are also some reasons why people often avoid using the public washroom, particularly the female users, where unsightly and inappropriate disposal of sanitary napkins are seen in the cubicle.  

Very often, sanitary napkin waste might be viewed as normal washroom waste by comparing them against used toilet paper. However, there are implications which most users are unaware of. By not cultivating the right disposal:

• Cause potential choked toilets, drainage blockages (via used pads being flushed down)
• Additional expenses incurred in addressing drainage problems
• Spread infections and cross contamination
• Closure of washroom for repair – that creates inconvenience for users
• Foul smell emitted – which is the top common washroom complain
• Attract pests such as flying insects

It is easy to adopt good feminine hygiene habits:

• Use sanitary waste disposal units with sensor technology or auto-lid to avoid hand contact
• Follow the 3 simple disposal instructions steps
• Protect yourself with hand sanitiser after exiting the washroom
• Always wash your hands after usage

However, most businesses and users have a wrong misperception and often associate sanitary waste disposal unit as a normal waste unit. In some washrooms, normal waste bins are used for sanitary napkin disposal. These units either do not come with a lid or requires the user to lift the lid. They are usually made of plastic, that do not come with sanitation element. This not only increases the risks of cross contamination with germs and bacteria, but also places users at risks. Depending how often the waste are removed, stale waste will emit foul smell.

While female users are starting to embrace positive hygiene habits, these necessary facilities have to be made available for users as well. Facility and building management parts a major role in supporting the right culture by installing the relevant hygiene solution facilities in the washroom. From a health and safety perspective, your facility business can help minimize the risk of cross-contamination among female users. It also enhances your brand image and reputation among your property partners.

Adopt the optimal feminine hygiene solutions and make your female guests feel extra well cared for.