Hygiene Inequalities in Ireland: An Analysis of Secondary Data
This report explores the scale, distribution, and hidden realities of hygiene poverty across Ireland. Drawing on analysis of national datasets including the Household Budget Survey, the Harmonised Index of Consumer Prices, and the Minimum Essential Standard of Living, the report examines the affordability of essential hygiene products such as soap, toiletries, cleaning supplies, and personal care items. The findings reveal that although hygiene product prices have fallen over the past decade, household spending on these essentials has risen, placing growing pressure on many households.
The report highlights significant inequalities, with renters, lower income households, rural communities, and households with retired or unemployed earners facing particular challenges. It also finds that average spending on personal care often falls below the minimum essential standard required for many family types.
Crucially, the report exposes major gaps in current national data, especially around disability and long term health conditions, making hygiene poverty difficult to fully measure and address. It offers practical recommendations to strengthen data collection, improve policy responses, and support more equitable access to hygiene and dignity for all.
