Recently, my daughter’s school started a collection drive for hygiene products to support families in need. As we packed soaps, shampoos, and toothpaste into donation bags, it struck me how something so fundamental, having access to hygiene essentials, is out of reach for so many. This small act of kindness by children and parents in our community shone a light on a much larger, often overlooked issue: hygiene poverty.

What is Hygiene Poverty?

Hygiene poverty refers to the inability to afford basic hygiene products like soap, toothpaste, or sanitary items. For families living on tight budgets, these essentials often fall by the wayside in favour of other necessities, like food or rent. The result is a silent crisis affecting millions worldwide. In the UK alone, hygiene banks report that countless families rely on donated items just to meet their daily needs. Globally, the issue is even more severe, especially in low-income communities where limited access to hygiene products exacerbates existing health disparities.

Why It Matters

Hygiene poverty isn’t just about personal discomfort, it’s a public health issue. Inadequate access to hygiene increases the risk of infections, absenteeism from school and work, and mental health struggles due to stigma and shame. Children who lack proper hygiene products may face bullying or feel unable to participate fully in school life. Adults may find it harder to secure jobs or maintain confidence in social situations.

In essence, hygiene poverty traps individuals and families in cycles of inequity. Beyond its personal toll, it has ripple effects on society, leading to higher healthcare costs, reduced productivity, and greater social exclusion.

Connecting to RGHI’s Mission

At RGHI, we believe in the transformative power of hygiene to improve health and wellbeing. Tackling hygiene poverty aligns with our broader mission to fund impactful research, strengthen global research capacity, and foster collaboration to address systemic challenges. While community initiatives like my daughter’s school drive address immediate needs, RGHI’s focus is on generating evidence-based solutions that influence long-term change.

By working with policymakers, researchers, and practitioners, we aim to create a world where everyone can safely practise hygiene behaviours for improved health and wellbeing.

What Can We Do?

Hygiene poverty is a solvable problem, but it requires collective effort. Community-driven initiatives, like school collection drives or hygiene banks, play a vital role in providing immediate relief. However, we also need systemic solutions: governments and organisations must prioritize policies that ensure access to hygiene products for all, particularly the most vulnerable.

At RGHI, we are committed to supporting the research and partnerships necessary to address these gaps. By understanding the scope of the problem and identifying sustainable strategies, we can help build a future where hygiene poverty is a thing of the past.

As I reflect on my daughter’s involvement in this drive, I’m reminded of the power of small actions to inspire change. Whether it’s donating products, volunteering at a hygiene bank, or advocating for systemic reforms, each step brings us closer to a world where everyone can live with health, dignity, and opportunity.