New Report Reveals Hidden Hygiene Inequalities Across Ireland

We are pleased to launch Hygiene Inequalities in Ireland: An Analysis of Secondary Data, a new report examining the scale and distribution of hygiene poverty across Ireland.

The report draws on national datasets, including the Household Budget Survey, the Harmonised Index of Consumer Prices, and the Minimum Essential Standard of Living, to assess the affordability of essential hygiene products such as soap, toiletries, cleaning supplies, and personal care items.

Findings highlight persistent inequalities in access to hygiene essentials. Households on lower incomes, renters, rural communities, and those with unemployed or retired earners face greater financial pressure in meeting basic hygiene needs. The analysis also shows that spending on personal care often falls below minimum essential standards for several household types.

While overall hygiene product prices have declined over time, household spending on these essentials has continued to rise, placing increased strain on many families.

The report also identifies important gaps in national data, particularly relating to disability and long-term health conditions, limiting a full understanding of hygiene poverty in Ireland.

It calls for improved data collection, stronger policy responses, and targeted action to ensure equitable access to hygiene, health, and dignity for all.

Read the report here: https://www.tasc.ie/publications/hygiene-inequalities-in-ireland-an-analysis-of-secondary-data/