To help meet the information needs of consumers, The Soap and Detergent Association (SDA) wanted to learn more about the attitudes of Americans toward hygiene and how they protect themselves against potential health threats in the home. A survey conducte d for SDA by Roper Starch Worldwide Research revealed that many Americans understand the connection between health and hygiene, but lack some key information about how the right cleaning practices can help maintain good health.

According to Peg Jordan, R.N., founder and editor of American Fitness Magazine, "Just as people know they should eat right and exercise for reasons that go beyond physical appearance, they should also realize that cleaning regularly and practicing good personal hygiene can help keep them healthy."

Here's what we learned from the 1998 SDA National Cleaning Survey:

Americans See a Clean Connection Between Health and Hygiene
But Knowledge Gaps Exist in Their Understanding

1998 SDA National Cleaning Survey
Key Research Findings

Who's Keeping House?
A Look at American Lifestyle Changes That Affect Our Cleaning Needs