Nearly four million Australians are living in ‘hygiene poverty’, with one in five people concerned they soon won’t be able to afford everyday products like deodorant and soap.
The findings come from new national research released today by charity Good360, showing that women and young people are most likely to be affected by hygiene poverty.
According to the survey, more than 20 per cent of women are concerned about affording essential personal hygiene and cleaning products. Women are also more likely to have skipped buying hygiene products to afford other essentials like food.
“While some commentators have declared that the cost of living crisis is over, our research has uncovered the heartbreaking reality that millions of Australians are struggling to afford everyday basics such as soap, shampoo, toothpaste, deodorant, household cleaning products and feminine hygiene products such as tampons,” founder and Managing Director of Good360, Alison Covington, said.
The research indicates hygiene poverty — which occurs when people cannot afford everyday personal hygiene products like soap, toothpaste, tampons and deodorant — deeply affects people’s everyday life. It can prevent people from going to school, work or social activities.
“Eliminating hygiene poverty isn’t just about ensuring people have access to toothpaste and deodorant, it’s about helping people to live a dignified and healthy life. There should not be millions of Australians, including children, going without the basics they need to thrive,” Covington said.
“The impacts of hygiene poverty are wide ranging, with our research showing it takes a devastating toll on people’s mental and physical wellbeing. Hygiene poverty can cause feelings of low self-esteem, embarrassment and shame, and make it difficult for people to maintain their health.”
The survey of 1,000 Australians found one in eight people were currently experiencing hygiene poverty for the first time. Among young people aged 18-24, nearly one third said they were struggling to buy the products they needed.
Good360 has supported over two million Australians to access hygiene products that otherwise may have ended up in landfill.
“Hygiene poverty is a hidden, but pervasive and personally devastating issue. It’s time for corporate Australia and governments to step forward and help eradicate hygiene poverty for good by funding initiatives that put these essentials into the homes that need them most,” Covington said.
Feature image: Founder and Managing Director of Good360, Alison Covington.