When people talk about great workplaces, they mention open layouts, ergonomic chairs, good coffee, or flexible hours. Almost no one mentions the washroom.
They should.
Office washrooms have a surprisingly big impact on productivity, comfort, morale, and even how your business is perceived. In fact, a Statista study found that washrooms generate over 45% of all office building complaints, more than any other workplace issue.
Productivity Starts with Comfort
Employees shouldn’t have to hesitate before using the washroom, but many do.
Research by YouGov for washroom provider Elis found that 75% of employees have at least one concern about workplace washrooms. Common worries include dirtiness, lack of supplies, bad smells, and poor airflow.
When washrooms are unpleasant or unreliable, they disrupt the workday. Long queues, broken fixtures, or poor hygiene pull employees away from their tasks and add unnecessary stress. When basic needs are met, people get back to work faster, and more focused.
Key concerns highlighted in the survey:
- 47% expect dirty toilets
- 45% worry about insufficient toilet paper
- 45% believe washrooms will be unhygienic
A clean, well-managed washroom quietly supports productivity by reducing friction, distractions, and downtime.
A Clear Signal of How Much You Care
Cleanliness isn’t a “nice to have” it’s a trust signal.
Research from Tork shows that 86% of office employees see cleanliness as one of the most important aspects of a good work environment. The condition of your washroom sends a clear message: this is how much we value our people.
Well-stocked, thoughtfully maintained facilities show respect for employees’ comfort and wellbeing. Over time, that attention to detail boosts morale, builds trust, and strengthens workplace culture. Neglected washrooms do the opposite, making staff feel overlooked and undervalued.
Health, Hygiene, and Wellbeing
Poor washrooms don’t just affect comfort—they affect health.
A poll of 2,000 workers commissioned by global hygiene company Essity found that nearly 1 in 5 employees refuse to use workplace toilets due to hygiene concerns. Even more striking, 45% believe their workplace is a “breeding ground for bacteria.”
Washrooms play a critical role in preventing the spread of illness. Proper sanitation, good ventilation, touch-free fixtures, and reliable restocking reduce absenteeism and protect productivity.
The same Essity survey revealed:
- 24% avoid washrooms due to unhygienic conditions
- 50% have skipped using the washroom even when they needed to
That’s not just uncomfortable, it’s unhealthy.
Small Space. Big Impact.
Office washrooms may not be glamorous, but they shape the daily experience of everyone in the building. Investing in their upkeep isn’t just about cleanliness—it’s about productivity, morale, health, and reputation.
When done right, office washrooms work quietly in the background, supporting a better, more efficient workplace.
Contact us today to find out how TWC Pest Control can help improve comfort, morale, productivity, and the way your business is perceived. Call 0330 441 0985 or complete our online enquiry form for a free quote.
