Research of a wide selection of UK adults found 41 per cent, of those asked, described themselves as ‘latherers’ when it comes to their washing routine. But amidst the current economic climate, 53 per cent have made changes to the way they shower in a bid to save money and reduce household bills.
More than three in 10 (31 per cent) of the 2000 polled are showering less regularly, while 29 per cent are now even sharing the cubicle with their other half. In addition, 20 per cent of those who have children are washing them all together as opposed to individually.
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Ashley Cooper at Triton Showers, which commissioned the survey:
“It’s been interesting to find out about the nation’s showering habits, although it’s not been a surprise to see that there has been a marked changed due to the current cost-of-living crisis. We are all doing things differently to help keep costs down and our home habits have become a big part of that – particularly when it comes to our water and energy usage.
“For example, showering for just one minute less can save up to £88 per year.”
With the average adult spending a swift six minutes getting clean, more than half (56 per cent) switch the water flow off completely while they wash their hair or body. A third are even using their phone timers to make sure they don’t keep the water running too long.
Despite 53 per cent admitting they have changed the way they shower in a bid to reduce household bills, 69 per cent were already conscious about the impact of their bathing habits before the cost-of-living crisis arose. A third would consider switching to a more efficient shower type, but 69 per cent say they don’t know enough about them to commit.
Although the average time people spend in the shower has reduced, 48 per cent still prefer longer showers as opposed to shorter ones – with one in 10 getting nagged every time they take one. When it comes to who does this the most, two thirds are regularly reminded by their partners but, surprisingly, 39 per cent get called out by their children.
The average household will argue three times a week about how long each member spends in the cubicle, as 35 per cent often lose track of time and forget when they first got in. ‘Relaxing’ and ‘refreshing’ are among the top reasons why people enjoy having a shower, with nearly a fifth (18 per cent) preferring a colder water temperature.
More than three in 10 (32 per cent) typically have a shower to warm up, while 27 per cent use the opportunity to reflect on their day. The study, conducted via OnePoll, found that 29 per cent will step into the shower to simply enjoy some peace and quiet away from the kids.
Ashley Cooper:
“The bathroom acts as a sanctuary for many; a place to relax, gather your thoughts and take time out of the day for yourself. It doesn’t come as a surprise that 48 per cent of people still prefer a longer shower, despite the current climate.
“Those who don’t want to alter their showering habits, but want to save money, should consider swapping to a more energy and water efficient option, like an electric shower. An electric unit can save up to 48,000 litres of water and knock £133 off your household bills when compared to alternatives.”