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SURVEY ON INDOOR USE AND USE
PATTERNS OF CONSUMER PRODUCTS
IN EU MEMBER STATES
- SURVEY REPORT -
Author: Andrew Johnson, Elena Lucica, Ipsos
February 2012
EPHECT is co-funded by the European Union in the framework of the Health Programmes 2006-2013 This report arises from the project EPHECT
“© IPSOS All rights on the materials described in this document rest with IPSOS. This document is produced in the frame of the EPHECT –project. The EPHECT-project is co-funded by the European Union in the framework of the health Programmes 2006-2013. The information and views set out in this document are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the official opinion of the European Union. Neither the European Union institutions and bodies nor any person acting on their behalf, nor the authors may be held responsible for the use which may be made of the information contained herein. Reproduction is authorized provided the source is acknowledged.”
Distribution List
III
DISTRIBUTION LIST
EPHECT associated partners
Vlaamse Instelling voor Technologisch Onderzoek , Mol, Belgium
University of Western Macedonia Research Comitee, Athens, Greece
Agence Nationale de Sécurité Sanitaire, Alimentation, Environnement, Travail, Paris,
France
Technische Universität München, Germany
The National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark
Instituto de Engenharia Mecanica Environment, Lisboa, Portugal
Universita Degli Studi di Milano, Italy
Ipsos Belgium, Waterloo, Belgium
EPHECT collaborative partners
EVALUATOR
The present report has been evaluated by ANSES (Agence Nationale de Sécurité Sanitaire,
Alimentation, Environnement, Travail, Paris, France)
Summary
V
SUMMARY
The following report presents the results of a survey on Indoor use and use patterns of consumer
products in the EU member states. The survey was conducted with the objective of creating an
inventory of information on consumption and use habits of 16 product classes across the EU. The
project was focused on identifying the most popular brands and products, as well as collecting
information on different behaviour patterns for each of the selected product classes, such as use
frequency, time of day when the product is used, quantity of product used, etc. In addition, the study
was also designed to identify whether and how consumers protect themselves from direct exposure
to the product. The survey was carried out in 10 European countries, across Eastern, Western,
Southern and Northern Europe. The results will provide an overview of different use patterns of
consumer products, and will serve as an input for simulated real life emission testing, exposure and
risk assessment.
After an introductory section, providing a detailed description of the project objectives and
methodology, the report will focus on the overall findings of the survey, all while highlighting the
differences between the 10 countries and the different European regions.
Table of contents
VII
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Distribution List _________________________________________________________________ III
evaluator ______________________________________________________________________ III
Summary _______________________________________________________________________ V
Table of contents _______________________________________________________________ VII
List of Symbols _________________________________________________________________ IX
CHAPTER 1 Introduction and survey objectives ______________________________________ 1
CHAPTER 2 Survey design and methodology ________________________________________ 4
2.1. Study approach 4
2.2. Country selection 4
2.3. Survey methodology 5
2.4. Sample description 5
2.5. Desk research 7
2.6. Questionnaire 7
CHAPTER 3 Survey results _______________________________________________________ 9
3.1 All purpose cleaners 14
3.2 Kitchen cleaners 24
3.3 Floor cleaners 35
3.4 Glass and window cleaners 45
3.5 Bathroom cleaners 55
3.6 Furniture polish 66
3.7 Floor polish 74
3.8 Combustible air fresheners 82
3.9 Air freshening sprays 91
3.10 Electric air fresheners 98
3.11 Passive air fresheners 104
3.12 Insecticides 110
3.13 Coating products for leather and textiles 119
3.14 Hairspray 128
Table of contents
VIII
3.15 Spray deodorants 135
3.16 Perfumes 141
3.17 . 146
CONCLUSION __________________________________________________________________ 147
List of symbols
IX
LIST OF SYMBOLS
“-” In the tables, this corresponds to “zero” “%” “N”
In the tables, when not preceded by any number, this means “a value of less than one half of one per cent, but greater than zero” In the tables, “N” is the base size. Most questions are based on all respondents asked each question, but some questions are only based on those responding to a previous question in a certain way (for example, only those who diliute a product on using it are asked the follow-up question on the temperature of the water in which they dilute).
CZ DK FR DE HU IT PL ES SE UK
Czech Republic Denmark France Germany Hungary Italy Poland Spain Sweden United Kingdom
Chapter 1 Definition
1
CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION AND SURVEY OBJECTIVES
The purpose of the survey was to gather information on consumer behaviour with regards to 16
selected consumer product classes. Survey results served as input for simulated real life emission
testing, exposure and risk assessment.
The information collected aims at representing use and use patterns of the 16 selected product
classes, in 10 countries across the EU. The study had two main objectives:
1. Identifying, for each of the selected product classes, the most frequently used products. This
involved identifying :
The most frequently used brands for each product class, in each country as well as across
the 10 countries
The most frequently used products for each of the top brands, in each country
The most frequently used formats for each product class, in each country as well as
across the 10 countries (whether liquid, spray, powder etc.).
2. Identifying, for each of the selected product classes, the different types of use patterns:
Frequency of use (how often a product is used, whether daily, weekly, monthly or less
often)
Time of day when the product is used (whether in the morning, in the afternoon, in the
evening or at night)
Rooms where the product is used (whether living room, kitchen, bathroom, bedroom,
storage places etc.)
Surfaces on which the product is used (whether walls, doors, floors, furniture, windows
etc.)
Protection measures (whether people wear gloves, avoid using the product in
combination with others, or whether they ventilate when using the product)
Ventilation patterns (whether people ventilate before/during/after using the product,
and for how long)
Reading product instructions (whether or not people read instructions before using a
product for the first time)
Chapter 1 Definition
2
Respect of recommended quantities (whether people use the recommended quantities,
or whether they use more or less product then recommended)
Dilution patterns (whether or not people dilute the products they use into water)
Quantities of product used (according to the different formats: quantities of liquid,
number of sprayings, number of wipes etc.).The most popular brands and products per
country have been identified and in a separate output (‘Shopping list’).
The study focused on collecting detailed information on use patterns of 16 selected product classes,
defined as follows:
All purpose cleaners - cleaning products that can be used on almost any hard surface i.e. stainless steel, ceramics, wood, glass etc.
Kitchen cleaners - products used for cleaning and/or degreasing different surfaces in the kitchen, i.e. oven cleaner, water softener, stainless steel cleaner etc.
Floor cleaners - products specially designed for cleaning different types of flooring such as hardwood, linoleum or tile. This is not to be confused with floor polish (see below).
Glass and window cleaners - cleaning products specially designed for surfaces such as glass, windows and mirrors.
Bathroom cleaners - products specially designed for cleaning different surfaces in bathrooms, such as bathtubs, sinks, faucets, shower cabins etc.
Furniture polish - products used on furniture in order to give it a smooth and shiny surface.
Floor polish - products which are used on non-carpeted floors such as hardwood and tile in order to give them a smooth and shiny surface. This is not to be confused with floor cleaners (see above).
Combustible air fresheners - products such as scented candles, incense or heated oils, which can be used inside homes and release fragrance when they are burned.
Air fresheners – sprays - sprays which are used inside homes and which release fragrance.
Electric air fresheners - air fresheners that you plug in to an electrical outlet.
Passive units - air fresheners - air fresheners which come as units/devices containing a gel, liquid or wipes/tissues which you leave in the room and which release fragrance.
Insecticides - products specially designed to kill insects and which can be used in homes (indoors).
Coating products for leather and textiles - products used on leather or textile items such as furnishing, clothing or accessories (i.e. Shoes, handbags), in order to protect them from water, scratch and wear and/or to improve their appearance (i.e. Leather protector, shoe polish etc.).
Hairspray - personal care products which are sprayed onto hair in order to keep it in place after styling.
Chapter 1 Definition
3
Spray deodorants - personal care products for men or women which come as sprays and are applied on skin in order to prevent body odour.
Perfumes - personal care products for men or women which are applied in order to provide a pleasant fragrance.
Prior to the survey design and set-up, we have reviewed several studies on related topics. This
background research enabled us to clearly define each of the product classes taken into account in
the survey. Furthermore, reviewing studies on similar topics has helped us set out specific objectives
for the survey, and to identify the appropriate methodology which would enable us to achieve them.
This step allowed us to perfect and develop our research tools for the survey, and provided input for
the results analysis.
The following surveys were reviewed:
The impact of using household cleaning products on indoor pollution
The study was conducted in March 2010, through online interviews, with the objective of identifying
the most commonly used products and brands, different types of use patterns of household
products, as well as people’s perceptions and selection criteria on consumer products. The survey
focused on 10 different categories of household products. The target was the Brussels population
aged 18 +, in charge of household cleaning chores; 500 people were interviewed.
Analysing purchase behaviour and use patterns of air fresheners
The study was conducted in 2006, and was focused on identifying the most popular distribution
channels, as well as use and frequency patterns of 10 different types of air fresheners. The study was
conducted through telephone interviews. The target population were users of different types of air
fresheners. The survey was conducted in Belgium, with 646 interviews carried out.
Chapter 2 Description
4
CHAPTER 2 SURVEY DESIGN AND METHODOLOGY
2.1. Study approach
Conducting the survey implied several actions which were undertaken throughout the process:
Reviewing existing studies on related topics
Identifying and defining the product classes on which the survey was focused
Defining the specific objectives to be attained through the survey
Selecting the countries where the survey took place
Defining the survey methodology and sampling
Designing the questionnaire in line with the survey objectives and with the selected product
classes
Conducting desk research in order to identify, for each product class, the brands and
products available on the market in each country where the survey took place
Translating and programming the questionnaire in the languages of the countries where the
survey took place
Conducting fieldwork in the selected countries
Data cleaning, processing and analysis.
The following sections describe the the background research (literature review), the survey
objectives, as well as all methodological and technical aspects of the project.
2.2. Country selection
The survey was conducted in 10 EU member countries, across four geographical regions (Southern
Europe, Northern Europe, Western Europe and Eastern Europe). We have selected a representative
number of countries in each geographic region, to reflect different use and use patterns of the 16
product classes selected: Northern Europe (Sweden, Denmark), Western Europe (Germany, France,
UK), Southern Europe (Italy, Spain), Eastern Europe (Poland, Hungary, Czech Republic).
Chapter 2 Description
5
2.3. Survey methodology
The survey was carried out online. In order to ensure comparability, we have used the same data
collection method in each of the 10 countries.
The target population was the general public, residents of each of the selected countries, aged 18
and older, who are generally in charge of cleaning tasks in their household, and who have used at
least one of the 16 selected product classes during the 6 months prior to the survey.
As the questionnaire was structured in 16 sections, each corresponding to one product class, each
respondent was allowed complete 5 sections at the most. This procedure was followed in order to
ensure that the interviews don’t exceed 25 minutes each (which is the maximum recommended
duration for online surveys). Between 587 and 1507 evaluations were therefore achieved for each
product class overall (across the 10 countries).
Sample sizes varied between the countries, due to the differences in product penetration. Results were weighted across the 10 countries, in order to ensure that each country has the same weight when analyzing the overall results, despite the sample sizes being different in each country.
2.4. Sample description
A total of 4335 interviews were conducted across the 10 countries. Sample sizes varied between
countries, with 368 to 578 interviews conducted in each, ensuring national representativity of
consumers of the selected product classes by age, gender and region.
The survey was designed to ensure representative samples of product users in each country. The
sample design followed national representative quotas, by age, gender and region. Respondent
selection was based on two main criteria: only those who were in sole or shared charge of household
cleaning tasks, and who have used at least one of the 16 product classes were able to answer the
survey. The following table presents the sample sizes for each country:
Sample sizes in each country
Region Country Number of
interviews
Western
Europe
France 487
Germany 358
UK 351
Northern
Europe
Denmark 449
Swedem 471
Southern
Europe
Italy 361
Spain 578
Chapter 2 Description
6
Eastern Europe
Czech Republic 365
Hungary 565
Poland 350
Total (across the 10 countries) 4335
The following table presents the characteristics of the overall surveyed population (across the 10
countries), in terms of gender, age, occupational status, marital status and children living in the
household.
Sample characteristics
Socio-demographic information
Number of interviews
%
Gender
Male 1711 39%
Female 2624 61%
Age
18-34 1459 34%
35-54 1958 45%
55+ 918 21%
Occupational
status
Active 2618 60%
Non-active 1717 40%
Marital
status
Married/Living as a couple 2493 58%
Single/Divorced/ Widow(er) 1842 43%
Children
living in the
household
Yes 2179 51%
No 2138 49%
Total (across the 10 countries) 4335 100%
Women are more likely than men to be product users (20% versus 39%). In terms of age, there are
more people aged 35-54 who use the products (45%) than among the other age groups. People who
are active (doing any type of paid work) are more likely to use the products than those inactive
(unemployed, retired, unable to work, etc.). People who are either married or living as a couple are
more inclined to use the products than those who are single, divorced or widow(er)s.
Having children living in the household does not make a difference in terms of product use, as there
is an almost equal balance between the proportion of product users who have children living in their
household (51%) and those who don’t (49%).
Chapter 2 Description
7
2.5. Desk research
Desk research was conducted in each of the 10 selected countries. This exercise provided a clearer
overview of the market, the objective being to identity, for each of the 16 product classes, the brands
and products available in each country.
The desk research was carried out through two different steps:
1. Identifying, for each of the countries in which the project would take place, the main brands
available in shops for each of the selected product classes. The strategy undertaken was to
visit the main supermarkets in each country, and inventory the brands available for each
product class.
2. Identifying, in each country, for each of the brands corresponding to the 16 product classes,
the different products available on the market. The approach was to visit the websites for
the different brands in each country and inventory the available products for each, making
sure to note all aspects of each product, (for example, where applicable, the fragrance).
Conducting desk research enabled us to identify the brands and products available in each country,
for each of the 16 product classes. The information was used when designing the questionnaire, as in
some of the questions the respondents were asked to select from a list the brands and products they
use most in their household.
2.6. Questionnaire
The questionnaire was designed in order to collect information on EU consumers’ use and use
patterns of the 16 product classes.
The document was structured as following:
1. A introduction and screening part: the first two questions aimed at selecting the
respondent as well as the product classes to be evaluated. The first question was designed to
identify whether the respondent generally takes part in household cleaning tasks.
Respondents who don’t fit this criteria were screened out, as we were only interested in
interviewing people who participate in these tasks and are therefore most likely to be regular
uses of the selected product classes.
The second question was meant to identify whether the respondent has used any of the 16
product classes during the past 6 months. Respondents who have not used at least one of
the listed products were screened out, as our objective was to only interview consumers of
these particular items.
Other questions asked in this module, common to all respondents, focused on the main
criteria of product selection, as well as on the size of the household.
A main module, specific to each product class: this module was structured in 16 different
sections, each corresponding to one product class. The sections follow a similar structure,
the objective being to collect comparable information on use patterns (use frequency, time
Chapter 2 Description
8
and place where the product is used, protection measures (including ventilation), dilution
behaviour, quantities used, most popular brands and products) for each of the 16 product
classes.
Therefore, the 16 sections each correspond to the different product classes included in the
study:
o All purpose cleaners o Kitchen cleaners o Floor cleaners o Glass and window cleaners o Bathroom cleaners o Furniture polish o Floor polish o Combustible air fresheners o Air fresheners - sprays o Electric air fresheners o Passive units - air fresheners o Insecticides o Coating products for leather and textiles o Hairspray o Spray deodorants o Perfumes.
A socio-demographic module, designed to collect information on the characteristics of the
respondents: age, sex, region, marital status, children, employment status and type of
dwelling.
The interview did not exceed 25 minutes for each respondent. Each of the respondents taking part in
the survey had to answer the first and the last part of the questionnaire. As for the main module, as
specified in the previous section, each respondent was asked to evaluate not more than 5 product
classes.
The questionnaire was designed after reviewing existing studies on the use of household products. In
line with the survey objectives, we have identified several main topics/variables to be covered
(identified as the main factors that influence human exposure via consumer products):
o Frequency of use o Time of day where the product is used o Room where the product is used o Surfaces on which the product is used o Protection measures (such as use of gloves, mask, respect for instructions, as well as
habits such as product dilution and rinsing) o Most frequently used formats o Most frequently used brands and products o Most frequently used quantities.
The survey instrument was developed in English and translated into the national language(s) of the
countries covered by the survey.
Chapter 3 Survey results
9
CHAPTER 3 SURVEY RESULTS
Product class penetration
Q. R1. In the past 6 months, which of the following products have you personally used in your
household? (several answers possiblea)
When looking at the overall results (across the 10 countries) the products with the highest
penetration are all purpose cleaners (81%), bathroom cleaning products (77%), kitchen cleaning
products (77%), glass and window cleaners (75%), and perfumes (72%).
On the other hand, products such as combustible air fresheners (26%), electric air fresheners (22%),
passive air fresheners (20%), coating products for leather and textiles (20%) and floor polish (14%)
are less used. Fewer than 30% of the respondents declare having used either one of these products
during the 6 months prior to the survey.
81%
77%
77%
75%
72%
65%
60%
48%
41%
37%
35%
26%
22%
20%
20%
14%
All purpose cleaners
Bathroom cleaning products
Kitchen cleaning products
Glass and w indow cleaners
Perfumes
Floor cleaner
Spray deodorants
Air fresheners in sprays
Hairspray
Insecticides
Furniture polish
Combustible air fresheners
Electric air fresheners
Passive air fresheners
Coating products for leather and textiles
Floor polish
Chapter 3 Survey results
10
Q.R1. In the past 6 months, which of the following products have you personally used in your household
(indoors) ? (several answers possible)
N= 4335
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
4335 365 358 449 578 487 565 361 350 471 351
All purpose cleaners 81% 83% 90% 86% 76% 78% 75% 80% 63% 86% 88%
Bathroom cleaning products 77% 82% 80% 67% 78% 66% 83% 82% 70% 76% 82%
Kitchen cleaning products 77% 92% 65% 59% 78% 68% 89% 77% 75% 83% 79%
Glass and window cleaner 75% 84% 85% 68% 70% 74% 80% 72% 76% 74% 68%
Perfumes 72% 82% 70% 63% 69% 74% 72% 70% 77% 74% 66%
Floor cleaner 65% 65% 63% 41% 82% 74% 42% 81% 74% 62% 65%
Spray deodorants 60% 74% 62% 48% 60% 56% 62% 66% 62% 42% 72%
Air fresheners in sprays 48% 56% 41% 23% 51% 47% 50% 54% 46% 42% 67%
Hairspray 41% 54% 49% 34% 32% 30% 36% 35% 43% 49% 43%
Insecticides 37% 45% 24% 23% 52% 42% 45% 56% 39% 22% 24%
Furniture polish 35% 33% 29% 11% 37% 39% 36% 32% 45% 35% 57%
Combustible air fresheners 26% 26% 18% 8% 30% 35% 23% 29% 30% 29% 36%
Electric air fresheners 22% 22% 15% 6% 37% 20% 19% 31% 25% 8% 37%
Passive air fresheners 20% 21% 20% 10% 23% 20% 18% 22% 18% 23% 28%
Coating products for leather and textiles 20% 25% 17% 16% 21% 18% 11% 17% 21% 31% 20%
Floor polish 14% 16% 13% 4% 12% 11% 11% 22% 29% 8% 18%
ELECTRIC UNITS 29% 35% 19% 7% 43% 26% 30% 42% 37% 10% 37%
There are certain differences between countries and European regions when it comes to product
penetration.
Although cross-country and cross-region differences are not as important among users of high
penetration products (all purpose cleaners, kitchen cleaners, bathroom cleaners, glass and window
cleaners and perfumes), variation is high when it comes to certain medium and low penetration
products.
People in Southern Europe are more inclined than the overall surveyed population to use certain
products, such as floor cleaners (81% vs 65%), insecticides (54% vs 37%), and electric air fresheners
(34% vs 22%).
Chapter 3 Survey results
11
People in Eastern Europe are more likely to use kitchen cleaners (85% vs 77%), as well as floor polish,
which is the lowest penetration product across the 10 countries (18% vs 14%).
On the other hand, people in Northern Europe are less likely than the overall population to use floor
cleaner (51% of those in Northern Europe have used this within the past 6 months before the survey,
compared to 65% of the overall population across the 10 countries), spray deodorants (45% vs 60%),
spray air fresheners (32% vs 48%), insecticides (23% vs 37%), furniture polish (23% vs 35%), as well as
electric air fresheners (7% vs 22%) and floor polish (6% vs 14%).
These differences are further illustrated when looking at the cross-country results.
In Italy, insecticides penetration is higher than across the 10 countries (56% vs 37%), while in the UK,
this is the case for products such as spray air fresheners (67% vs 48%), furniture polish (57% vs 35%),
and electric air fresheners (37% in Spain and UK, compared to 22% overall).
In Poland, 29% of the respondents have used floor polish within the 6 months before the survey,
compared to 14% of the overall population.
Spray deodorants penetration in is lower in Denmark and Sweden (48%, 42%), than it is across the 10
countries (60%). Following the same pattern, insecticides penetration is lower in these two countries
(23% in Denmark and 22% in Sweden), than it is overall (37%). When it comes to electric air
fresheners, 6% of those in Denmark and 8% of those in Sweden have used these during the 6 months
before the survey, compared to 22% of the overall survey population.
People in Denmark are less likely than the overall population to use products such as furniture polish
(11% vs 35%), and floor polish (4% vs 14%).
These variations between countries and regions may be explained through cultural differences
(different practices, environment awareness, beliefs about the effects of certain products on human
health, etc), as well as geographical and climate differences which can create the need for certain
products in certain parts of Europe (for example, the use of insecticides in Southern Europe more
than in other European regions).
Chapter 3 Survey results
12
Product selection criteria
Q.R2. Which are the 3 most important criteria that you consider when selecting a cleaning product?
(Up to 3 answers possible)
Overall, price is the most important criteria when selecting a product (68%), followed by efficiency
(63%). At the other extreme, aspects such as safety (11%), advertising (3%) or label (2%) are the least
important.
Selection criteria varies across the different regions, as brand seems to be more important in
Southern and Eastern Europe (36% each) than overall (30%). This aspect is less important in Northern
Europe (17%). Brand is an important selection criteria for 38% of the Italians and 48% of the Polish,
while only 15% of the Danish and 20% of the Swedish population take this aspect into account when
buying a product.
As for product price, this aspect counts more in Eastern and Western Europe (74% and 71%), than it
does overall (68%). Price is less important in Northern Europe (58%). When it comes to differences
between countries, product price is more important in Hungary (80%), Czech Republic(77%), as well
as Spain (75%), and less important in Sweden (57%) and Denmark (58%).
On the other hand, Northern Europeans are more concerned for the environment when selecting a
product (41%) then the overall interviewed population (29%), and than people in Southern Europe
(23%) and Western Europe (24%). This aspect is important to 45% of the Danish population, and less
important in the UK (15%), Poland (19%), or Spain (21%).
68%
63%
30%
29%
29%
22%
22%
11%
3%
2%
Price
Efficiency
Brand
Odour
Environmentally friendly
Promotion/Special offer
User friendly
Safety
Advertising
Product label
Chapter 3 Survey results
13
Q.R2. Which are the 3 most important criteria that you consider when selecting a cleaning product ? (up to
3 answers possible)
N= 4335
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
4335 365 358 449 578 487 565 361 350 471 351
Price 68% 71% 58% 75% 67% 80% 58% 66% 57% 75% 58%
Efficiency 63% 79% 69% 57% 57% 69% 73% 57% 42% 71% 57%
Brand 30% 30% 23% 15% 34% 29% 31% 38% 48% 20% 34%
Odour 29% 36% 30% 20% 24% 33% 24% 20% 37% 33% 32%
Environementally friendly 29% 26% 34% 45% 21% 23% 41% 25% 19% 38% 15%
Promotion/special offer 22% 5% 16% 28% 29% 25% 7% 38% 28% 17% 31%
User friendly 22% 16% 29% 22% 25% 21% 14% 27% 15% 33% 21%
Safety 11% 9% 8% 8% 10% 9% 13% 13% 14% 6% 17%
Advertising 3% 1% 3% 2% 2% 3% 1% 5% 6% 3% 3%
Product label 2% 2% 2% 1% 2% 4% % 1% 1% % 3%
Other 1% 2% - 2% - % 1% 1% 1% 1% %
Don’t know 1% % 1% 3% 1% - 1% 1% 1% 1% -
Chapter 3 Survey results
14
3.1 All purpose cleaners
Among all product classes, all purpose cleaners have the highest penetration rate, as 81% of the
respondents have used them at least once during the 6 months before the survey tookplace.
Use frequency
Q.1. How often do you use all purpose cleaners in your home ? (only one answer possible)
N= 1447
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1447 121 142 181 180 159 203 110 105 133 113
At least once a day 17% 17% 8% 7% 20% 28% 7% 32% 22% 17% 17%
Several times a week 36% 42% 29% 22% 44% 34% 40% 45% 48% 23% 39%
Once a week 29% 26% 42% 38% 25% 22% 30% 20% 24% 30% 26%
Once every two weeks 9% 7% 11% 17% 4% 9% 13% 2% 4% 9% 8%
Once a month 6% 4% 7% 12% 3% 3% 6% - 2% 14% 7%
Less than once a month 2% 2% 2% 4% 3% 1% 2% 1% - 5% 3%
Do not know 1% - 1% 2% 1% 3% 1% 1% 1% 2% 1%
Daily 17% 17% 8% 7% 20% 28% 7% 32% 22% 17% 17%
Weekly 65% 69% 70% 59% 69% 56% 70% 65% 71% 53% 65%
Monthly 15% 12% 18% 29% 7% 12% 19% 2% 6% 23% 15%
Less than once a month 2% 2% 2% 4% 3% 1% 2% 1% - 5% 3%
Do not know 1% - 1% 2% 1% 3% 1% 1% 1% 2% 1%
At least once a week 82% 86% 78% 66% 89% 84% 77% 96% 93% 70% 81%
At least once a month 96% 98% 96% 94% 96% 96% 97% 98% 99% 93% 96%
Less than once a month 2% 2% 2% 4% 3% 1% 2% 1% - 5% 3%
Do not know 1% - 1% 2% 1% 3% 1% 1% 1% 2% 1%
When it comes to use frequency, most people who use all purpose cleaners do it on a weekly basis
(65%), while only 17% use them daily, and 15% use them monthly.
Daily use is higher in countries such as Italy (32%) and France (28%) than it is overall, and lower in
Denmark and Hungary (7%).
People in Northern Europe are more likely to use this type of product at least once a month (26% vs
15%), this being the case for 29% of those in Denmark and 23% of those in Sweden.
Chapter 3 Survey results
15
Time of day when the product is used
Q.2. When do you normally use all purpose cleaners ? (several answers possible)
N= 1447
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1447 121 142 181 180 159 203 110 105 133 113
Mostly in the afternoon (between
12am and 6pm) 28% 30% 32% 31% 26% 23% 22% 30% 30% 28% 23%
Mostly in the morning (between
6am and 12am) 27% 13% 24% 19% 53% 36% 15% 44% 24% 14% 36%
Mostly in the evening (between 6pm
and 12pm) 16% 22% 16% 16% 15% 16% 10% 16% 15% 23% 12%
Mostly in the night (between 12pm
and 6am) % - - - 1% 1% % - 1% 1% 1%
At any time, no specific moment 34% 42% 35% 41% 12% 33% 55% 19% 31% 38% 32%
Most respondents use all purpose cleaners either in the afternoon (28%) or the morning (27%).
Fewer people use it in the evening (16%). This varies between countries, as people in Italy and Spain
are more likely than others to use the product in the morning (44% in Italy and 53% in Spain,
compared to 27% of the overall population).
Room where the product is used
Q.3. In which room(s) do you normally use all purpose cleaners ? (several answers possible)
N= 1447
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1447 121 142 181 180 159 203 110 105 133 113
Kitchen 84% 88% 87% 86% 64% 86% 92% 81% 74% 86% 87%
Bathroom 76% 76% 82% 84% 60% 77% 85% 76% 66% 76% 73%
WC 57% 71% 65% 62% 34% 57% 68% 46% 50% 65% 42%
Living/dining room 52% 52% 54% 56% 67% 58% 31% 53% 48% 53% 49%
Hallway 33% 51% 39% 40% 36% 27% 28% 21% 25% 44% 18%
Bedroom 31% 23% 27% 45% 52% 23% 13% 35% 19% 40% 32%
Closet/Storage room 18% 16% 15% 27% 34% 18% 7% 22% 16% 13% 14%
Other room in the house 13% 16% 10% 24% 13% 11% 11% 14% 7% 17% 3%
All purpose cleaners are mostly used in the kitchen (84%) and in the bathroom (76%), and less
frequently employed in the bedroom (31%) and storage rooms (18%). Spain is one of the exceptions,
as people are slightly less likely to use the product in the kitchen (64% compared to 84% of the
Chapter 3 Survey results
16
overall population) and bathroom (60% vs 76%), but more likely to use it in the bedroom (52% vs
31%). Northern Europeans and Southern Europeans are also more inclined then others to use the
product in the bedroom (both 43% vs 31%); 45% of consumers in Denmark and 40% of those in
Sweden use all purpose cleaners in their bedrooms.
Surfaces on which the product is used
Q.4. On which surface(s) do you use all purpose cleaners ? (several answers possible)
N= 1447
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1447 121 142 181 180 159 203 110 105 133 113
Floor 67% 76% 80% 70% 57% 72% 53% 62% 65% 78% 53%
Sink 57% 60% 61% 63% 28% 71% 51% 56% 58% 56% 65%
Toilet 52% 55% 49% 55% 27% 53% 68% 50% 52% 55% 50%
Doors 49% 54% 51% 59% 47% 49% 51% 40% 42% 51% 43%
Shower 47% 40% 56% 49% 33% 53% 49% 45% 40% 51% 55%
Bathtub 45% 50% 46% 18% 31% 47% 70% 43% 48% 47% 51%
Electrical kitchen appliances (oven,
stove, etc) 39% 36% 23% 34% 44% 38% 59% 48% 30% 28% 50%
Windows 30% 36% 19% 28% 44% 27% 38% 32% 35% 16% 27%
Mirrors 29% 34% 20% 23% 43% 21% 33% 36% 37% 19% 29%
Walls 29% 12% 35% 44% 27% 31% 11% 23% 30% 30% 44%
Furniture 28% 31% 18% 22% 47% 31% 22% 35% 40% 14% 28%
Other surface 12% 9% 6% 20% 6% 10% 14% 10% 8% 12% 19%
Most people use all purpose cleaners in order to clean the floor (67%), the sink (57%) or the toilet
(52%). The product is less frequently used on surfaces such as windows (30%), mirrors (29%), walls
(29%), or furniture (28%).
Chapter 3 Survey results
17
Protection measures
Use of gloves
Q.5.1. How, if at all, do you protect yourself when using all purpose cleaners ? I wear gloves (only one
answer possible)
N= 1447
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1447 121 142 181 180 159 203 110 105 133 113
Always 21% 12% 17% 16% 29% 18% 17% 31% 37% 13% 19%
Sometimes 35% 44% 30% 37% 37% 25% 40% 36% 45% 34% 27%
Never 44% 45% 53% 47% 34% 57% 43% 33% 18% 53% 53%
When it comes to protection measures, most people never wear gloves in order to protect
themselves when using all purpose cleaners (44%). Slightly more then a third (35%) sometimes take
this protection measure, while only 21% do it on a regular basis.
In Poland, there is a higher proportion of consumers who tend to wear gloves regularly when using
all purpose cleaners compared to the overall population (37% vs 21%). Also, slightly more people in
Southern Europe are likely to take this protection measure (30%, with 31% in Italy and 29% in Spain).
Use of protection mask
Q.5.2. How, if at all, do you protect yourself when using all purpose cleaners ? I wear a protection mask
(only one answer possible)
N= 1447
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1447 121 142 181 180 159 203 110 105 133 113
Always 4% 1% 1% 1% 7% 4% 2% 3% 11% 2% 6%
Sometimes 9% 6% 3% 6% 16% 8% 9% 20% 14% 2% 9%
Never 87% 93% 96% 93% 78% 88% 89% 77% 74% 96% 85%
Other measures, such as wearing a protection mask when using all purpose cleaners, are much less
common (with 87% of the respondents never taking this type of measure, 9% - sometimes, and only
4% regularly).
Chapter 3 Survey results
18
Avoiding contact with the product
Q.5.3. How, if at all, do you protect yourself when using all purpose cleaners ? I avoid getting the product in
contact with my eyes or mouth (only one answer possible)
N= 1447
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1447 121 142 181 180 159 203 110 105 133 113
Always 81% 88% 84% 84% 73% 82% 73% 79% 83% 79% 80%
Sometimes 8% 7% 2% 9% 12% 8% 5% 14% 9% 8% 6%
Never 12% 4% 14% 7% 15% 10% 22% 7% 9% 13% 14%
The majority of all purpose cleaners users avoid getting the product into their eyes or mouth (81%).
Avoiding using the product in combination with other products
Q.5.4. How, if at all, do you protect yourself when using all purpose cleaners ? I avoid using the product in
combination with other detergents or bleach (only one answer possible)
N= 1447
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1447 121 142 181 180 159 203 110 105 133 113
Always 59% 45% 54% 71% 64% 61% 63% 65% 52% 49% 57%
Sometimes 21% 39% 21% 14% 21% 19% 7% 23% 34% 18% 17%
Never 21% 16% 25% 15% 16% 20% 30% 12% 13% 33% 27%
Most users (59%) always avoid combining all purpose cleaners with other detergents or bleach.
However, an important proportion of the respondents (21%) tend not to adopt this measure. A third
of the respondents in Sweden (33%) and Hungary (30%) never avoid using all purpose cleaners in
combination with other products.
Room ventilation
Q.5.5. How, if at all, do you protect yourself when using all purpose cleaners ? I ventilate the room (only
one answer possible)
N= 1447
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1447 121 142 181 180 159 203 110 105 133 113
Always 54% 50% 61% 57% 68% 62% 72% 57% 50% 26% 32%
Sometimes 35% 45% 31% 35% 22% 31% 22% 32% 42% 48% 49%
Never 10% 4% 8% 8% 10% 7% 6% 11% 8% 26% 19%
Slightly more than half of the respondents (54%) always ventilate the room when using all purpose
cleaners. A third of them (35%) ventilate sometimes, while only 10% don’t do it at all.
Chapter 3 Survey results
19
Users in Spain are more likely to regularly ventilate the room when applying the product (68%) than
the overall population (54%). This practice is less common in Sweden (26%) and in the UK (32%).
Q.6. Which of the following statements best describe how you ventilate the room when using an all
purpose cleaner ? (several answers possible)
N= 1299
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1299 116 131 167 162 148 191 98 97 98 91
I open the window(s) 92% 93% 94% 90% 89% 91% 98% 93% 91% 85% 88%
I open the indoor door(s) 36% 25% 47% 38% 44% 29% 36% 26% 36% 30% 44%
I open the outdoor door(s) 22% 14% 9% 39% 25% 16% 32% 12% 26% 24% 26%
I use an electric in built
fan/ventilation system 5% 5% 2% 7% 1% 3% 4% 6% 12% 10% 3%
I use a mechanical (rotary) fan 4% 3% 1% 4% 5% 3% 4% 2% 13% 7% 1%
I ventilate in another way 1% - - 2% 2% 1% 1% - 1% 3% 1%
Among those who ventilate when using all purpose cleaners, most people do it by opening the
window (92%). Fewer ventilate by opening the indoor or outdoor doors (36%, 22%), or by using a fan,
whether electric (5%) or mechanical (4%).
Q.7. When do you ventilate the room ? (only one answer possible)
N= 1299
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1299 116 131 167 162 148 191 98 97 98 91
I ventilate the room during the use of
the product 27% 20% 31% 25% 30% 25% 14% 40% 18% 36% 44%
I ventilate the room during the use of
the product and for less than 15 minutes
afterwards
24% 23% 24% 23% 29% 25% 28% 21% 26% 23% 21%
I ventilate the room during the use of
the product and for at least 15 minutes
afterwards
38% 49% 35% 37% 36% 42% 50% 30% 47% 26% 26%
I do not ventilate the room during the
use of the product but I do it for less than
15 minutes afterwards
4% 4% 7% 4% 2% 5% 3% 5% 2% 10% 3%
I do not ventilate the room during the
use of the product but I do it for at least
15 minutes afterwards
5% 3% 3% 12% 3% 3% 6% 4% 7% 5% 5%
Ventilate during the use of the product 90% 92% 90% 84% 95% 92% 91% 91% 91% 85% 91%
Chapter 3 Survey results
20
Ventilate after the use of the product 10% 8% 10% 16% 5% 8% 9% 9% 9% 15% 9%
The vast majority ventilate during the use of the product (90%), while only 10% do it after using the
product.
Respecting product use instructions
Q.8. Do you read the instructions before using an all purpose cleaner for the
first time ? (only one answer possible)
N= 1447
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1447 121 142 181 180 159 203 110 105 133 113
Yes 73% 77
% 66% 71% 71% 65% 90% 78% 80% 62% 73%
No 24% 21
% 31% 27% 27% 32% 9% 18% 16% 36% 26%
The product you use does not come
with instructions 2% 2% 3% 3% 2% 3% 1% 4% 4% 2% 1%
Nearly three-quarters of the consumers (73%) tend to read the instructions before using an all
purpose cleaner for the first time. Users in Hungary (90%) and Poland (80%) are more inclined to
read these than the overall users of all purpose cleaners. However, a significant minority (24%) don’t
read the instructions before using a new all purpose cleaner. Consumers in Sweden (36%) are less
likely to read instructions than the those across the 10 countries.
Q.9. Do you usually respect the recommended quantities ? (only one answer possible)
N= 1447
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1447 121 142 181 180 159 203 110 105 133 113
Yes 65% 65% 64% 64% 70% 63% 72% 65% 67% 57% 59%
No, I use more product than what is
recommended 15% 16% 14% 9% 16% 18% 12% 16% 13% 18% 18%
No, I use less product than what is
recommended 7% 5% 11% 12% 5% 7% 4% 8% 7% 10% 4%
There are no recommendations
regarding quantities for the product you
are using
5% 4% 6% 2% 4% 4% 4% 2% 7% 4% 12%
Do not know 8% 10% 6% 13% 4% 8% 8% 8% 7% 11% 7%
Use the recommended quantities or less 72% 70% 75% 76% 75% 70% 76% 74% 73% 67% 64%
No, i use more product than what is
recommended 15% 16% 14% 9% 16% 18% 12% 16% 13% 18% 18%
Chapter 3 Survey results
21
There are no recommendations
regarding quantities for the product you
are using
5% 4% 6% 2% 4% 4% 4% 2% 7% 4% 12%
Do not know 8% 10% 6% 13% 4% 8% 8% 8% 7% 11% 7%
The majority (72%) use the recommended quantities of product, or less product then what is
recommended; 15% use more product then recommended, while 5% declare there are no
recommendations regarding quantities for the all purpose cleaner they use.
Most frequently used formats
Q.37.b. What format do you use most? (several answers possible)
N= 1447
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1447 121 142 181 180 159 203 110 105 133 113
Liquid 80% 78% 90% 90% 71% 80% 92% 55% 87% 88% 67%
Spray 47% 45% 24% 30% 68% 49% 34% 71% 47% 54% 65%
Cream 17% 46% 2% 9% 7% 16% 25% 19% 20% 9% 14%
Most people (90%) prefer using the product in liquid format (80%).
Most frequently used brands
Q.10.a. Which of the following all purpose cleaners do you use most in your household ? (up to 3
answers possible)
N= 1447
All
1447
Ajax 31%
Cif 26%
Cillit Bang 19%
The most frequently used brands of all purpose cleaners across the 10 countries are Ajax (31%), Cif
(26%) and Cillit Bang (19%).
Chapter 3 Survey results
22
Product dilution and rinsing
Q.11.a. Do you dilute your all purpose cleaner in water before
use? (only one answer possible)
N= 1271
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1271 115 130 171 141 133 197 75 101 124 84
Yes, every time 34% 19% 48% 57% 28% 43% 10% 35% 24% 44% 25%
Yes, most of the times 33% 30% 36% 35% 28% 34% 28% 43% 29% 39% 27%
Yes but rarely 17% 28% 11% 3% 18% 9% 24% 16% 34% 10% 17%
Never 17% 23% 5% 5% 26% 14% 38% 7% 14% 8% 31%
Every time/most of the
times 66% 49% 85% 92% 56% 77% 38% 77% 52% 82% 52%
Rarely/never 34% 51% 15% 8% 44% 23% 62% 23% 48% 18% 48%
Two-thirds (66%) of those who use all purpose cleaners regularly dilute the product in water, while
one third (34%) do it either rarely or never. Users in Denmark (92%), Germany (85%) and Sweden
(82%) are more likely than the overall population to dilute the product in water.
On the other hand, almost two-thirds (62%) of consumers in Hungary and half (51%) of those in
Czech Republic rarely dilute all purpose cleaners in water before using them.
Q.11.b. Most of the times, when you dilute your all purpose cleaner in water, is it in ...(only
one answer possible)?
N= 1044
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1044 88 124 162 104 114 123 70 87 114 58
Cold water 18% 18% 6% 6% 39% 16% 22% 49% 20% 6% 19%
Lukewarm water 57% 69% 70% 41% 41% 55% 68% 43% 68% 55% 50%
Hot water 25% 11% 24% 51% 18% 28% 10% 4% 13% 38% 29%
Don't know 1% 1% - 1% 1% 1% - 4% - 1% 2%
Among those who dilute all purpose cleaners, most do it in lukewarm water (57%), while a quarter
(25%) prefer hot water, and 18% cold water. Practices vary between countries, as users in Spain are
more likely to prefer diluting the product in cold water (39%) than the overall population, while
among those in Denmark, half prefer hot water (51%).
Chapter 3 Survey results
23
Q.12. After using all purpose cleaner, do you rinse the surface where the product
was used? (only one answer possible)
N= 1447
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1447 121 142 181 180 159 203 110 105 133 113
Yes, every time 37% 46% 37% 23% 34% 28% 65% 49% 27% 17% 37%
Yes, most of the times 32% 33% 37% 31% 28% 30% 26% 30% 35% 41% 28%
Yes but rarely 15% 13% 15% 19% 14% 19% 5% 13% 14% 22% 19%
Never 16% 7% 11% 28% 23% 22% 4% 8% 24% 21% 16%
Every time/most of the
times 68% 79% 73% 54% 63% 58% 91% 79% 62% 57% 65%
Rarely/never 32% 21% 27% 46% 37% 42% 9% 21% 38% 43% 35%
Most users (68%) rinse the surface after having applied all purpose cleaners. Rinsing is mostly
common in Hungary (91%), as well as Czech Republic (79%) and Italy (79%). It is however less of a
current practice in Northern Europe, as 46% of users in Denmark and 43% of those in Sweden do this
rarely if at all, compared to 32% of the overall population.
Quantities of product used
Q.13.a. How much all purpose cleaner do you use on one occasion, i.e. Each time you clean your home ?
(only one answer possible)
N= 1170
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1170 94 128 163 128 127 186 60 91 117 76
Less than 0.5 cap 13% 9% 13% 22% 20% 12% 6% 18% 9% 13% 9%
0.5 cap to less than 1 cap 36% 37% 34% 44% 36% 35% 35% 43% 26% 34% 38%
1 cap to less than 1.5 caps 29% 36% 38% 19% 24% 28% 25% 20% 38% 29% 25%
1.5 caps to less than 2 caps 11% 10% 8% 9% 16% 12% 16% 10% 14% 9% 12%
2 caps to less than 2.5 caps 6% 4% 7% 5% 2% 6% 6% 3% 5% 10% 9%
2.5 caps to less than 3 caps 2% 1% 1% 1% - 3% 4% 2% 2% 3% 1%
3 caps and more 3% 3% - 1% 2% 3% 8% 3% 4% 1% 5%
Less than 1 cap 49% 46% 46% 66% 55% 47% 41% 62% 35% 47% 47%
1 cap to less than 2 caps 40% 46% 46% 28% 41% 40% 41% 30% 53% 38% 37%
2 caps to less than 3 caps 8% 5% 8% 6% 2% 9% 10% 5% 8% 14% 11%
3 caps and more 3% 3% - 1% 2% 3% 8% 3% 4% 1% 5%
Mean 1,14 1,15 1,08 0,94 1,02 1,19 1,37 1,03 1,28 1,17 1,24
Chapter 3 Survey results
24
As liquid is the most current format for all purpose cleaners, most people (49%) use less than one cap
one each occasion and 40% use one to less than two caps. Fewer people use larger quantities, as 8%
use two caps to less than three caps, and only 3% use three caps or more.
In Denmark and Italy consumers tend to use smaller quantities (66% of those in Denmark and 62% of
those in Italy use less than one cap, compared to 49% of the overall surveyed population). In Poland,
people use slightly larger quantities of product, as 53% use one to less than two caps.
3.2 Kitchen cleaners
Among the respondents across the 10 countries, 77% have used kitchen cleaners at least once during
the 6 months prior to the survey.
Use frequency
Q.14. How often do you use kitchen cleaning products in your home ? (several answers possible)
N= 1461
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1461 121 141 191 179 158 203 109 105 140 114
At least once a day 29% 41% 16% 21% 33% 30% 31% 37% 35% 20% 34%
Several times a week 37% 32% 41% 37% 37% 37% 34% 39% 41% 38% 32%
Once a week 21% 16% 26% 24% 23% 18% 21% 19% 17% 21% 23%
Once every two weeks 6% 2% 9% 10% 6% 6% 5% 1% 3% 6% 4%
Once a month 3% 4% 2% 2% 1% 7% 2% 3% 4% 8% 3%
Less than once a month 2% 1% 4% 4% 1% 2% 3% 1% - 7% 2%
Do not know 1% 3% 3% 2% 1% 1% 2% - - - 2%
Daily 29% 41% 16% 21% 33% 30% 31% 37% 35% 20% 34%
Weekly 58% 48% 67% 61% 60% 55% 56% 59% 58% 59% 55%
Monthly 9% 7% 11% 13% 6% 13% 8% 4% 7% 14% 7%
Less than once a month 2% 1% 4% 4% 1% 2% 3% 1% - 7% 2%
Do not know 1% 3% 3% 2% 1% 1% 2% - - - 2%
At least once a week 87% 89% 82% 82% 93% 85% 87% 95% 93% 79% 89%
At least once a month 96% 96% 94% 94% 99% 97% 95% 99% 100% 93% 96%
Less than once a month 2% 1% 4% 4% 1% 2% 3% 1% - 7% 2%
Do not know 1% 3% 3% 2% 1% 1% 2% - - - 2%
Chapter 3 Survey results
25
Among those who use kitchen cleaners, most people employ the products at least weekly (58%),
while a third (29%) use them on a daily basis. Only 9% of the respondents use kitchen cleaners
monthly or twice a month, and even fewer (2%) use them less often than once a month. Slightly
more consumers in Czech Republic tend to use kitchen cleaners at least daily (41%), compared to
consumers across the 10 countries (29%).
Time of day when the product is used
Q.15. When do you normally use kitchen cleaning products ? (several answers possible)
N= 1461
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1461 121 141 191 179 158 203 109 105 140 114
Mostly in the afternoon (between
12am and 6pm) 26% 26% 28% 25% 36% 22% 22% 39% 29% 23% 18%
Mostly in the evening (between 6pm
and 12pm) 23% 21% 18% 29% 18% 20% 14% 31% 27% 26% 25%
Mostly in the morning (between 6am
and 12am) 20% 11% 18% 12% 36% 32% 11% 25% 20% 10% 34%
Mostly in the night (between 12pm
and 6am) 1% - - 1% 2% 1% % - 2% 1% 1%
At any time, no specific moment 37% 50% 42% 41% 17% 33% 56% 17% 29% 44% 32%
When taking into account the overall results across the 10 countries, most consumers use kitchen
cleaners in the afternoon (26%) and in the evening (23%), and slightly fewer of them use them in the
evening (20%).
Room where the product is used
Q.16. In which room(s) do you normally use kitchen cleaning products ? (several answers possible)
N= 1461
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1461 121 141 191 179 158 203 109 105 140 114
Kitchen 95% 95% 94% 93% 96% 95% 97% 97% 86% 96% 98%
Bathroom 26% 38% 15% 25% 16% 35% 32% 17% 37% 24% 25%
WC 14% 20% 6% 20% 7% 18% 18% 6% 24% 11% 12%
Living/dining room 11% 7% 11% 10% 7% 13% 16% 13% 12% 13% 10%
Hallway 4% 3% 4% 4% 3% 8% 4% 2% 2% 4% 3%
Closet/Storage room 4% 3% 3% 6% 9% 6% % 3% 1% 1% 4%
Bedroom 4% 2% 5% 6% 4% 4% 1% 3% 3% 1% 4%
Other room in the house 1% - 2% 3% 1% 4% % - - 2% 1%
Chapter 3 Survey results
26
The product is mostly used in the kitchen (95%). A quarter of the respondents use the product in
their bathroom. Users in Czech Republic (38%) and Poland (37%) are more likely than others to
employ kitchen cleaners when cleaning the bathroom.
Surfaces on which the product is used
Q.17. On which surface(s) do you use kitchen cleaning products ? (several answers possible)
N= 1461
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1461 121 141 191 179 158 203 109 105 140 114
Sink 71% 82% 66% 70% 27% 85% 56% 79% 81% 82% 84%
Electrical kitchen appliances
(oven, stove, etc) 70% 71% 65% 63% 74% 72% 85% 77% 63% 60% 71%
Floor 33% 23% 23% 30% 47% 41% 16% 41% 39% 29% 48%
Walls 29% 12% 34% 32% 47% 28% 13% 23% 30% 28% 39%
Furniture 21% 27% 26% 12% 31% 31% 22% 25% 18% 9% 14%
Doors 21% 13% 21% 24% 16% 20% 16% 9% 22% 34% 32%
Bathtub 18% 26% 8% 12% 9% 25% 28% 10% 29% 15% 22%
Toilet 18% 21% 9% 20% 9% 23% 24% 9% 25% 16% 22%
Shower 16% 18% 6% 18% 7% 25% 19% 7% 28% 16% 19%
Windows 14% 12% 6% 18% 13% 16% 12% 13% 24% 9% 19%
Mirrors 10% 8% 7% 15% 6% 8% 10% 8% 18% 11% 11%
Other surface 12% 4% 10% 24% 6% 6% 21% 4% 5% 14% 26%
Kitchen cleaners are mostly used on sinks (71%) and electrical kitchen appliances (70%), and less
frequently used on surfaces such as floors (33%), walls (29%), or furniture (21%). Consumers in the
UK and Spain are more likely than others to use kitchen cleaners for cleaning floors (48% and 47%
respectively vs 33%).Less than a fifth of the users employ the products in order to clean showers
(16%), windows (14%) or mirrors (10%).
Chapter 3 Survey results
27
Protection measures
Use of gloves
Q.18.1. How, if at all, do you protect yourself when using kitchen cleaning products ? I
wear gloves (only one answer possible)
N= 1461
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1461 121 141 191 179 158 203 109 105 140 114
Always 18% 8% 12% 11% 25% 13% 22% 28% 32% 11% 24%
Sometimes 36% 31% 32% 36% 41% 29% 38% 39% 43% 31% 37%
Never 46% 61% 56% 53% 34% 58% 40% 33% 25% 57% 39%
When it comes to protection measures, almost half (46%) never wear gloves when using kitchen
cleaners. A third (36%) tend to use gloves occasionally, while only 18% always wear them. Among
consumers in Poland (32%) Italy (28%) and Spain (25%) slightly more people wear gloves regularly,
compared to consumers overall (18%). Wearing gloves is less common in France and Sweden, as 58%
of the French users and 57% among the Swedish never wear gloves when using the product.
Use of protection mask
Q.18.2. How, if at all, do you protect yourself when using kitchen cleaning products ? I wear a
protection mask (only one answer possible)
N= 1461
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1461 121 141 191 179 158 203 109 105 140 114
Always 2% 1% 2% 2% 4% 1% 1% 2% 8% 1% 2%
Sometimes 7% 4% 3% 6% 14% 5% 11% 14% 8% 1% 7%
Never 90% 95% 95% 92% 82% 94% 88% 84% 85% 98% 91%
Wearing a protection mask when using kitchen cleaners is even less frequent, as 90% of the
consumers never take this measure. Only 2% of them always wear a protection mask while using
kitchen cleaners.
Chapter 3 Survey results
28
Avoiding contact with the product
Q.18.3. How, if at all, do you protect yourself when using kitchen cleaning products ? I avoid getting the
product in contact with my eyes or mouth (only one answer possible)
N= 1461
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1461 121 141 191 179 158 203 109 105 140 114
Always 82% 82% 80% 83% 79% 87% 77% 85% 87% 71% 86%
Sometimes 6% 5% 4% 6% 12% 4% % 6% 6% 9% 5%
Never 13% 13% 16% 11% 9% 8% 22% 8% 8% 20% 9%
The majority (82%) are careful when it comes to avoiding getting the product in contact with their
eyes or mouth. Users tend to be slightly less cautions in Hungary, as 22% never make the effort of
avoiding contact with the product, compared to 13% of the overall respondents.
Avoiding using the product in combination with other products
Q.18.4. How, if at all, do you protect yourself when using kitchen cleaning products ? I avoid using the
product in combination with other detergents or bleach (only one answer possible)
N= 1461
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1461 121 141 191 179 158 203 109 105 140 114
Always 60% 47% 56% 63% 68% 59% 67% 75% 58% 48% 63%
Sometimes 19% 25% 15% 17% 21% 21% 8% 14% 27% 24% 21%
Never 21% 28% 29% 19% 11% 20% 25% 11% 15% 28% 16%
Almost two-thirds of kitchen cleaners users (60%) always avoid combining the products with other
detergents or bleach. However , a fifth (21%) tend to regularly combine the products. Slightly more
people in Denmark (29%), Czech Republic (28%), and Sweden (28%), tend to use kitchen cleaners in
combination with other products or bleach.
Room ventilation
Q.18.5. How, if at all, do you protect yourself when using kitchen cleaning products ? I ventilate the
room (only one answer possible)
N= 1461
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1461 121 141 191 179 158 203 109 105 140 114
Always 51% 45% 51% 51% 66% 61% 66% 59% 53% 21% 34%
Sometimes 36% 43% 34% 35% 25% 32% 26% 36% 34% 54% 46%
Never 13% 12% 15% 14% 9% 7% 8% 6% 12% 25% 19%
Chapter 3 Survey results
29
Half of the users (51%) regularly ventilate when using the products, while a third (36%) only do it
sometimes; 13% tend not to ventilate at all.
Ventilation is more common in countries such as Spain and Hungary (with 66% of the users in each of
the two countries who ventilate regularly), and slightly less frequent in Sweden (where a quarter of
the respondents never ventilate).
Q.19. Which of the following statements best describe how you ventilate the room when using a kitchen
cleaning product ? (several answers possible)
N= 1278
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1278 106 120 164 162 147 187 103 92 105 92
I open the window(s) 88% 94% 91% 81% 87% 92% 91% 85% 90% 81% 89%
I open the indoor door(s) 29% 19% 42% 30% 41% 18% 29% 30% 23% 20% 34%
I open the outdoor door(s) 20% 11% 3% 40% 27% 21% 25% 12% 7% 20% 32%
I use an electric in built fan/ventilation
system 7% 7% - 9% 3% 7% 6% 3% 16% 19% 8%
I use a mechanical (rotary) fan 4% 2% 2% 5% 6% 2% 4% 5% 5% 3% 2%
I ventilate in another way 1% 1% - 2% 2% - 1% 1% 1% 5% 1%
Among kitchen cleaners users who ventilate, the majority (88%) do it by opening the window, while
29% ventilate by opening the indoor door and 20% by opening the outdoor door.
Following a similar pattern to all purpose cleaners users, very few people ventilate by using an
electric fan (7%) or a mechanical fan (4%).
Q.20. When do you ventilate the room ? (only one answer possible)
N= 1278
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1278 106 120 164 162 147 187 103 92 105 92
I ventilate the room during the use of
the product 24% 26% 30% 21% 23% 26% 16% 27% 20% 30% 27%
I ventilate the room during the use of
the product and for less than 15 minutes
afterwards
27% 24% 19% 27% 31% 27% 37% 31% 25% 27% 23%
I ventilate the room during the use of
the product and for at least 15 minutes
afterwards
39% 40% 39% 36% 41% 37% 42% 33% 42% 30% 45%
I do not ventilate the room during the
use of the product but I do it for less than
15 minutes afterwards
6% 7% 8% 9% 4% 7% 3% 7% 3% 11% 3%
Chapter 3 Survey results
30
I do not ventilate the room during the
use of the product but I do it for at least
15 minutes afterwards
4% 4% 3% 7% 1% 3% 2% 2% 10% 2% 2%
Ventilate during the use of the product 90% 90% 88% 84% 94% 90% 95% 91% 87% 87% 95%
Ventilate after the use of the product 10% 10% 12% 16% 6% 10% 5% 9% 13% 13% 5%
The vast majority (90%) of users who ventilate do it during the use of the product, while 10%
ventilate only after using the product. This pattern is followed by most respondents, with relatively
little variation between countries or regions.
Respecting product use instructions
Q.21. Do you read the instructions before using a kitchen cleaning product for the first
time ? (only one answer possible)
N= 1461
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1461 121 141 191 179 158 203 109 105 140 114
Yes 78% 75% 69% 73% 85% 71% 86% 87% 90% 72% 75%
No 20% 24% 28% 24% 13% 27% 14% 10% 9% 25% 24%
The product you use does not come
with instructions 2% 1% 4% 3% 2% 2% % 3% 2% 3% 2%
Most consumers (78%) read the instructions before using a kitchen cleaner for the first time. A fifth
(20%) however tend not to read the instruction when first using a new product. People in Poland
tend to pay more attention to this aspect, as 90% of them read the instructions before using a
kitchen cleaning product for the first time.
Q.22. Do you usually respect the recommended
quantities ? (only one answer possible)
N= 1461
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1461 121 141 191 179 158 203 109 105 140 114
Yes 65% 62% 64% 62% 72% 63% 71% 76% 64% 58% 61%
No, I use more product than what is
recommended 15% 16% 13% 11% 20% 18% 11% 10% 18% 16% 23%
No, I use less product than what is
recommended 6% 7% 6% 7% 2% 4% 6% 6% 7% 10% 4%
Chapter 3 Survey results
31
There are no recommendations
regarding quantities for the product
you are using
5% 2% 9% 4% 3% 8% 4% 6% 7% 5% 5%
Do not know 9% 14% 9% 16% 3% 7% 8% 3% 5% 11% 7%
Use the recommended quantities or
less 71% 69% 70% 69% 74% 68% 77% 82% 70% 68% 65%
No, i use more product than what is
recommended 15% 16% 13% 11% 20% 18% 11% 10% 18% 16% 23%
There are no recommendations
regarding quantities for the product
you are using
5% 2% 9% 4% 3% 8% 4% 6% 7% 5% 5%
Do not know 9% 14% 9% 16% 3% 7% 8% 3% 5% 11% 7%
When it comes to quantities, most users (71%) either respect the recommended quantities, or use
less product then recommended. Only 15% tend to use more product than what is recommended.
Most frequently used formats
Q.23. What kind of kitchen cleaning product(s) do you use in your household ? (only one answer possible)
N= 1461
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1461 121 141 191 179 158 203 109 105 140 114
Special kitchen cleaner 69% 72% 64% 58% 80% 72% 64% 65% 66% 75% 81%
Special oven cleaner 48% 54% 50% 49% 36% 44% 50% 30% 51% 60% 57%
Stainless steel cleaner 30% 36% 45% 34% 16% 16% 24% 42% 31% 23% 32%
Water softener 12% 8% 18% 13% 12% 4% 18% 6% 20% 9% 6%
Other 6% 3% 2% 11% 5% 4% 8% 4% 4% 10% 5%
Do not know 8% 6% 9% 13% 6% 11% 9% 6% 6% 8% 4%
Special kitchen cleaner is the most widely used product of this category (69%). Almost half of the
consumers use special oven cleaners (48%), while almost a third (30%) use stainless steel cleaners.
Oven cleaners are more frequently used in Sweden (60%), while stainless steel cleaners are more
widely used in Denmark (45%).
Chapter 3 Survey results
32
Q.37.b. What format do you use most? (several answers possible)
N= 1447
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1461 121 141 191 179 158 203 109 105 140 114
Liquid 66% 69% 81% 75% 60% 62% 76% 51% 83% 52% 41%
Spray 54% 36% 37% 24% 66% 65% 57% 61% 51% 77% 86%
Cream 22% 43% 9% 21% 10% 22% 22% 33% 30% 19% 20%
The preferred format for kitchen cleaners is liquid (66%); half of the respondents use the product as
a spray (54%).
Most frequently used brands
Q.24.a. Which of the following kitchen cleaning products do you use most in your household ? (up to 3
answers possible)
N= 1461
All
1461
Cif 30%
Cillit Bang 20%
Ajax 18%
Cif is the most frequently used brand of kitchen cleaners across the 10 countries, followed by Cillit
Bang (20%) and Ajax (18%).
Product dilution and rinsing
Q.25.a. Do you dilute the kitchen cleaning product in water before use? (only one answer possible)
N= 1152
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1152 112 120 164 133 118 171 84 95 92 63
Yes, every time 19% 11% 23% 32% 22% 26% 7% 23% 14% 17% 13%
Yes, most of the times 29% 22% 36% 32% 35% 25% 12% 46% 22% 23% 35%
Yes but rarely 20% 30% 15% 14% 11% 17% 24% 11% 32% 26% 22%
Never 32% 37% 27% 23% 32% 31% 57% 20% 33% 34% 30%
Every time/most of the times 48% 33% 58% 63% 57% 52% 19% 69% 36% 40% 48%
Rarely/never 52% 67% 42% 37% 43% 48% 81% 31% 64% 60% 52%
Chapter 3 Survey results
33
Slightly more people tend not to dilute kitchen cleaners regularly into water before using them
(52%), while 48% dilute the product either regularly or occasionally. A third (32%) never dilute the
product at all.
Practices vary across the different countries, as dilution is more common in Italy (69%) and Denmark
(63%) than it is overall, and less frequent in Hungary, where 81% of the respondents either dilute the
product rarely or, even more commonly, don’t dilute at all.
Q.25.b. Most of the times, when you dilute your kitchen cleaning product in water, is it in ...(only one
answer possible)
N= 768
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
768 71 88 127 91 81 74 67 64 61 44
Cold water 22% 25% 14% 15% 44% 16% 26% 34% 22% 13% 16%
Lukewarm water 53% 56% 63% 34% 49% 53% 68% 52% 66% 52% 45%
Hot water 24% 17% 24% 49% 7% 31% 7% 7% 13% 34% 36%
Don't know 1% 1% - 2% - - - 6% - - 2%
Among those who do dilute, 53% do it in lukewarm water, while 24% prefer diluting in hot water and
22% in cold water. The preference for hot water is more prominent in Denmark (49%), while in Spain
almost as many opt for cold water (44%) as lukewarm (49%).
Q.26. After using kitchen cleaning product, do you rinse the surface where the product was used? (only one
answer possible)
N= 1461
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1461 121 141 191 179 158 203 109 105 140 114
Yes, every time 57% 58% 60% 47% 54% 51% 78% 76% 55% 44% 52%
Yes, most of the times 25% 26% 24% 28% 33% 27% 18% 12% 25% 32% 23%
Yes but rarely 11% 12% 9% 16% 4% 12% 3% 7% 13% 14% 14%
Never 7% 3% 7% 10% 8% 9% 1% 5% 7% 10% 11%
Every time/most of the times 82% 84% 84% 74% 87% 78% 96% 88% 80% 76% 75%
Rarely/never 18% 16% 16% 26% 13% 22% 4% 12% 20% 24% 25%
The majority (82%) rinse the surface after having used kitchen cleaners, at least most times. This
practice is more frequent in Hungary, as 96% of the respondents rinse the surface where the product
was used.
Chapter 3 Survey results
34
Quantities of product used
Q.27.a. How much kitchen cleaning product do you use on one occasion i.e. Each time you clean your home
? (only one answer possible)
N= 964
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
964 83 114 144 108 98 154 56 87 73 47
Less than 0.5 cap 19% 16% 23% 22% 14% 17% 20% 30% 14% 21% 13%
0.5 cap to less than 1 cap 35% 36% 40% 38% 37% 32% 38% 39% 22% 38% 26%
1 cap to less than 1.5 caps 26% 31% 22% 19% 30% 23% 25% 20% 39% 21% 38%
1.5 caps to less than 2 caps 10% 8% 6% 12% 15% 14% 8% 7% 14% 4% 11%
2 caps to less than 2.5 caps 6% 6% 6% 4% 3% 8% 3% 2% 6% 12% 9%
2.5 caps to less than 3 caps 2% 1% 1% 3% 1% 2% 3% - 2% 1% -
3 caps and more 2% 1% 2% 2% 1% 3% 3% 2% 3% 3% 4%
Less than 1 cap 54% 52% 63% 60% 51% 49% 58% 70% 36% 59% 38%
1 cap to less than 2 caps 36% 40% 28% 31% 44% 38% 33% 27% 53% 25% 49%
2 caps to less than 3 caps 7% 7% 7% 7% 4% 10% 5% 2% 8% 14% 9%
3 caps and more 2% 1% 2% 2% 1% 3% 3% 2% 3% 3% 4%
Mean 1,06 1,06 0,96 1,03 1,06 1,16 1,03 0,84 1,23 1,07 1,22
Half of the consumers (54%) use less than one cap of kitchen cleaner on each occasion, while a third
(36%) use one to less then two caps. Very few consumers use two to three caps (7%) or more than
that (2%).
Chapter 3 Survey results
35
3.3 Floor cleaners
Nearly a third of the respondents (65%) use floor cleaners.
Use frequency
Q.28. How often do you use floor cleaners in your home ? (only one answer possible)
N= 1489
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1489 120 139 179 179 158 200 110 105 187 112
At least once a day 8% 4% 4% 3% 21% 4% 4% 15% 7% 9% 6%
Several times a week 23% 28% 14% 9% 37% 28% 22% 42% 35% 7% 18%
Once a week 38% 43% 40% 32% 30% 43% 41% 32% 41% 33% 43%
Once every two weeks 14% 14% 18% 20% 6% 12% 17% 5% 10% 22% 14%
Once a month 9% 5% 12% 15% 2% 4% 11% 5% 5% 17% 9%
Less than once a month 7% 4% 8% 18% 3% 5% 6% 1% - 10% 10%
Do not know 2% 2% 4% 3% 1% 3% 1% - 3% 2% -
Daily 8% 4% 4% 3% 21% 4% 4% 15% 7% 9% 6%
Weekly 60% 71% 54% 41% 67% 72% 63% 74% 76% 40% 61%
Monthly 23% 19% 29% 35% 8% 16% 27% 10% 14% 39% 23%
Less than once a month 7% 4% 8% 18% 3% 5% 6% 1% - 10% 10%
Do not know 2% 2% 4% 3% 1% 3% 1% - 3% 2% -
At least once a week 68% 75% 58% 44% 88% 76% 67% 89% 83% 49% 67%
At least once a month 91% 94% 88% 79% 96% 92% 94% 99% 97% 88% 90%
Less than once a month 7% 4% 8% 18% 3% 5% 6% 1% - 10% 10%
Do not know 2% 2% 4% 3% 1% 3% 1% - 3% 2% -
Among those who use floor cleaners, almost two-thirds (60%) employ the product on a weekly basis
(once or more a week), and nearly a quarter (23%) on a monthly basis. Very few respondents use
floor cleaners daily (8%).
Use of floor cleaners is more frequent in Spain, where 21% of the respondents use the product at
least once a day.
Chapter 3 Survey results
36
Time of day when the product is used
Q.29. When do you normally use floor cleaners ? (several answers possible)
N= 1489
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1489 120 139 179 179 158 200 110 105 187 112
Mostly in the afternoon (between
12am and 6pm) 29% 26% 26% 37% 32% 28% 26% 29% 30% 29% 29%
Mostly in the morning (between 6am
and 12am) 28% 16% 24% 23% 44% 34% 24% 50% 26% 13% 35%
Mostly in the evening (between 6pm
and 12pm) 16% 20% 15% 12% 15% 15% 7% 15% 27% 18% 18%
Mostly in the night (between 12pm
and 6am) 1% - - 2% 3% 1% 1% 1% - 1% 2%
At any time, no specific moment 31% 42% 37% 34% 13% 28% 46% 17% 24% 41% 25%
Most consumers use the product in the afternoon (29%) or in the morning (28%), while fewer do it in
the evening (16%).
Using the product in the morning rather than at other times of the day is more current in Southern
Europe, as 50% of the consumers in Italy and 44% of those in Spain use the product between 6 am
and 12 am.
Room where the product is used
Q.30. In which room(s) do you normally use floor cleaners ? (several answers possible)
N= 1489
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1489 120 139 179 179 158 200 110 105 187 112
Kitchen 83% 86% 79% 80% 80% 92% 62% 90% 85% 91% 90%
Bathroom 75% 82% 74% 60% 81% 86% 58% 88% 77% 78% 69%
Living/dining room 67% 53% 70% 66% 74% 82% 71% 79% 64% 78% 31%
Hallway 62% 74% 63% 54% 68% 68% 53% 65% 67% 83% 25%
WC 57% 78% 63% 46% 54% 78% 50% 49% 56% 66% 33%
Bedroom 51% 33% 42% 57% 69% 48% 52% 68% 53% 72% 12%
Closet/Storage room 22% 22% 20% 12% 50% 20% 13% 35% 15% 27% 11%
Other room in the
house 16% 13% 20% 26% 21% 13% 11% 21% 9% 21% 4%
Chapter 3 Survey results
37
Floor cleaners are mainly used in the kitchen (83%), but also in the bathroom (75%), living room
(67%) or hallway (62%). They are slightly less used in the bedroom (51%).
Users in Southern Europe (69% in Spain and 68% in Italy ) , as well as in Sweden (72%) are more likely
to use floor cleaners in the bedroom.
Only 22% of the respondents use the product in closets/storage room(s). Use varies across countries,
as 50% of the consumers in Spain use floor cleaners in closets or storage rooms, many more than in
other countries.
As might be expected, almost everyone uses this product on the floor (95%).
Protection measures
Use of gloves
Q.32.1. How, if at all, do you protect yourself when using floor cleaners ? I wear gloves (only one answer
possible)
N= 1489
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1489 120 139 179 179 158 200 110 105 187 112
Always 19% 16% 15% 29% 15% 18% 14% 29% 26% 11% 21%
Sometimes 27% 30% 22% 29% 21% 22% 31% 30% 39% 26% 25%
Never 53% 54% 63% 42% 64% 60% 56% 41% 35% 63% 54%
Slightly over half of the respondents (53%) do not wear gloves when using floor cleaners, while 27%
wear them occasionally and 19% do it regularly. Even though very few people tend to protect
themselves regularly, the number of those who do wear gloves either regularly or occasionally is
slightly higher than it is when using all purpose cleaners or kitchen cleaners.
People are more likely to use gloves in countries such as Denmark (29%), Italy (29%) and Poland
(26%), compared to the overall product users (19%).
Use of protection mask
Q.32.2. How, if at all, do you protect yourself when using floor cleaners ? I wear a protection mask (only
one answer possible)
N= 1489
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1489 120 139 179 179 158 200 110 105 187 112
Always 4% 2% 4% 6% 4% 3% 2% 7% 6% 1% 3%
Sometimes 7% 3% 3% 9% 13% 4% 6% 7% 11% 1% 11%
Never 90% 96% 94% 85% 83% 92% 93% 85% 83% 99% 87%
Chapter 3 Survey results
38
In line with the practices related to the use of all purpose cleaners and kitchen cleaners, very few
people wear a protection mask when using floor cleaners (4%), while 90% never resort to this type of
measure.
Avoiding contact with the product
Q.32.3. How, if at all, do you protect yourself when using floor cleaners ? I avoid getting the product in
contact with my eyes or mouth (only one answer possible)
N= 1489
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1489 120 139 179 179 158 200 110 105 187 112
Always 79% 83% 78% 82% 74% 85% 78% 85% 81% 70% 76%
Sometimes 6% 7% 2% 8% 11% 6% 1% 5% 8% 5% 6%
Never 15% 10% 20% 10% 15% 9% 22% 10% 11% 26% 18%
The majority (79%) consciously avoids getting the product in contact with their eyes or mouth.
Avoiding using the product in combination with other products
Q.32.4. How, if at all, do you protect yourself when using floor cleaners ? I avoid using the product in
combination with other detergents or bleach (only one answer possible)
N= 1489
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1489 120 139 179 179 158 200 110 105 187 112
Always 61% 58% 49% 73% 60% 63% 68% 75% 56% 48% 60%
Sometimes 15% 21% 14% 15% 21% 15% 7% 11% 29% 12% 14%
Never 24% 21% 37% 12% 18% 22% 26% 14% 15% 40% 26%
Less then two-thirds (61%) avoid using floor cleaners in combination with detergents or bleach, while
nearly a quarter (24%) never take this measure. People are most careful about avoiding
combinations between products in countries like Italy (75%) and Denmark (73%). Users are more
likely to combine floor cleaners with other products in Germany (37%).
Room ventilation
Q.32.5. How, if at all, do you protect yourself when using floor cleaners ? I ventilate the room (only one
answer possible)
N= 1489
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1489 120 139 179 179 158 200 110 105 187 112
Always 60% 58% 63% 66% 66% 70% 73% 76% 52% 28% 47%
Sometimes 27% 31% 23% 25% 22% 25% 16% 17% 42% 40% 27%
Never 13% 11% 14% 9% 11% 5% 11% 6% 6% 32% 26%
Chapter 3 Survey results
39
Consumers are more likely to ventilate when using floor cleaners (60%) than they are with kitchen
cleaners (51%). Users in France are slightly more inclined to always ventilate (70%).
On the other hand, users in the Sweden and in the UK are less likely to ventilate than the overall
population (32% and 26% respectively never ventilate, vs 13% overall).
Q.33. Which of the following statements best describe how you ventilate the room when using a floor
cleaner ? (several answers possible)
N= 1289
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1289 107 119 163 159 150 178 103 99 128 83
I open the window(s) 91% 93% 92% 88% 88% 91% 96% 94% 91% 88% 86%
I open the indoor door(s) 35% 32% 50% 31% 41% 32% 39% 23% 25% 23% 48%
I open the outdoor door(s) 26% 12% 15% 41% 24% 27% 33% 16% 12% 29% 48%
I use an electric in built
fan/ventilation system 4% 3% 1% 7% 1% 3% 2% 1% 5% 6% 11%
I use a mechanical (rotary) fan 3% - 1% 4% 4% 3% 1% 3% 7% 5% 4%
I ventilate in another way 1% - 2% 3% 1% 1% - - 2% 1% 1%
People who ventilate tend to do it mostly by opening the window (91%), and less often by opening
the indoor (35%) or outdoor (26%) doors. Following a similar pattern to the previous product classes,
very few people use an electric (4%) or mechanical (3%) fan.
Q.34. When do you ventilate the room ? (only one answer possible)
N= 1289
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1289 107 119 163 159 150 178 103 99 128 83
I ventilate the room during the use of
the product 25% 21% 32% 28% 19% 19% 14% 28% 21% 37% 35%
I ventilate the room during the use of
the product and for less than 15 minutes
afterwards
23% 33% 12% 20% 28% 22% 26% 20% 22% 19% 27%
I ventilate the room during the use of
the product and for at least 15 minutes
afterwards
43% 42% 45% 36% 46% 49% 51% 47% 47% 30% 37%
I do not ventilate the room during the
use of the product but I do it for less than
15 minutes afterwards
4% 3% 5% 6% 3% 7% 3% 1% 5% 5% -
I do not ventilate the room during the
use of the product but I do it for at least
15 minutes afterwards
5% 2% 7% 10% 4% 3% 6% 4% 4% 9% 1%
Chapter 3 Survey results
40
Ventilate during the use of the product 91% 95% 88% 84% 93% 90% 90% 95% 91% 86% 99%
Ventilate after the use of the product 9% 5% 12% 16% 7% 10% 10% 5% 9% 14% 1%
Most of them ventilate during the use of the product (91%), while 9% ventilate only afterwards.
Respecting product use instructions
Q.35. Do you read the instructions before using a floor cleaner for the first time ? (only one answer
possible)
N= 1489
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1489 120 139 179 179 158 200 110 105 187 112
Yes 77% 78% 68% 78% 73% 70% 93% 81% 86% 70% 75%
No 21% 20% 29% 18% 23% 27% 7% 18% 12% 29% 24%
The product you use does not
come with instructions 2% 2% 3% 4% 3% 3% - 1% 2% 1% 1%
Most consumers read the instructions when using a floor cleaners for the first time (77%) , while a
fifth (21%) don’t read these. Users in Hungary are more likely then others to consult the instructions
when using a product for the first time (93%).
Q.36. Do you usually respect the recommended quantities ? (only one answer possible)
N= 1489
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1489 120 139 179 179 158 200 110 105 187 112
Yes 66% 68% 63% 66% 63% 61% 76% 69% 63% 64% 64%
No, I use more product than what is
recommended 17% 18% 14% 14% 22% 20% 16% 15% 16% 19% 20%
No, I use less product than what is
recommended 7% 4% 10% 6% 7% 9% 5% 6% 11% 8% 5%
There are no recommendations
regarding quantities for the product you
are using
3% - 5% 2% 2% 4% 1% 5% 5% 2% 5%
Do not know 7% 9% 9% 11% 6% 5% 4% 5% 5% 8% 5%
Use the recommended quantities or less 73% 72% 73% 73% 70% 70% 80% 75% 74% 72% 70%
Chapter 3 Survey results
41
No, i use more product than what is
recommended 17% 18% 14% 14% 22% 20% 16% 15% 16% 19% 20%
There are no recommendations
regarding quantities for the product you
are using
3% - 5% 2% 2% 4% 1% 5% 5% 2% 5%
Do not know 7% 9% 9% 11% 6% 5% 4% 5% 5% 8% 5%
Almost three-quarters (73%) of users across the 10 countries either respect the recommended
quantities or use less product then recommended, while 17% use more then the recommended
quantities.
Most frequently used brands
Q.37.a. Which of the following floor cleaners do you use most in yourhousehold ? (up to three answers
possible)
N= 1489
All
1489
Ajax 19%
Cif 11%
The top brands of floor cleaners are Ajax (used by 19% of the consumers across the 10 countries) and
Cif (used by 11% of them).
Most frequently used formats
Q.37.b. What format do you use most ?
N= 1489
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1489 120 139 179 179 158 200 110 105 187 112
Liquid 91% 94% 91% 84% 90% 89% 96% 96% 93% 94% 84%
Spray 15% 10% 12% 9% 16% 13% 9% 15% 18% 17% 33%
Wipes/tissues 10% 3% 19% 5% 9% 15% 3% 10% 13% 4% 22%
Regarding the top formats, 91% of the consumers prefer using floor cleaners in liquid format, while
fewer of them prefer other formats such as spray (15%), wipes (10%) or gel (8%).
Chapter 3 Survey results
42
Product dilution and rinsing
Q.38a. Do you dilute your floor cleaner in water before use? (only one answer possible)
N= 1410
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1410 117 129 168 171 147 196 109 101 178 94
Yes, every time 76% 68% 81% 82% 78% 84% 72% 82% 59% 79% 68%
Yes, most of the times 16% 21% 9% 11% 16% 12% 14% 12% 30% 16% 19%
Yes but rarely 3% 4% 5% 4% 1% 2% 4% 3% 5% 2% 5%
Never 5% 6% 5% 4% 5% 1% 9% 4% 6% 3% 7%
Every time/most of the
times
91% 90% 90% 93% 94% 97% 87% 94% 89% 94% 87%
Rarely/never 9% 10% 10% 7% 6% 3% 13% 6% 11% 6% 13%
The vast majority prefer diluting all purpose cleaners before using them (91%), including 76% who do
so on every occasion.
Q.38.b. Most of the times, when you dilute a floor cleaner in water, is it in ...(only one answer possible)
N= 1339
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1339 110 122 162 163 145 178 105 95 172 87
Cold water 13% 2% 9% 4% 45% 12% 9% 37% 8% 5% 8%
Lukewarm water 50% 63% 57% 39% 34% 41% 71% 38% 74% 44% 46%
Hot water 36% 35% 34% 56% 20% 47% 20% 24% 18% 51% 45%
Don't know % - - 1% - 1% - 1% - 1% 1%
Half of those who dilute the product do this in lukewarm water, while 36% rather do it in hot water,
and only 13% have a preference for cold water.
In line with the pattern noticed for previous products, consumers in Denmark are more likely to
dilute floor cleaners in hot water (56%), while those in Spain have a preference for cold water (45%).
Chapter 3 Survey results
43
Q.39. After using floor cleaner, do you rinse the surface where the product was used? (only one answer
possible)
N= 1489
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1489 120 139 179 179 158 200 110 105 187 112
Yes, every time 19% 15% 23% 22% 27% 16% 13% 31% 13% 14% 22%
Yes, most of the times 19% 18% 17% 21% 23% 16% 14% 31% 17% 15% 18%
Yes but rarely 13% 12% 12% 12% 7% 15% 12% 10% 23% 17% 13%
Never 48% 55% 47% 45% 44% 53% 63% 28% 47% 54% 46%
EVERY TIME/MOST OF THE TIMES 38% 33% 40% 43% 50% 32% 26% 62% 30% 29% 40%
RARELY/NEVER 62% 67% 60% 57% 50% 68% 74% 38% 70% 71% 60%
Nearly two-thirds of the consumers (62%) do not tipically rinse the surface where the product was
used. Regular rinsing is slightly more common among the Italian (62%) and Spanish consumers (50%),
compared to the overall survey population (38%).
Quantities of product used
Q.40.a. How much floor cleaner do you use on one occasion i.e. Each time you clean your home ? (only one
answer possible)
N= 1356
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1356 113 126 150 161 141 192 106 98 175 94
Less than 0.5 cap 8% 12% 9% 15% 4% 2% 3% 10% 6% 9% 2%
0.5 cap to less than 1 cap 27% 23% 27% 24% 30% 28% 27% 31% 17% 31% 29%
1 cap to less than 1.5 caps 28% 31% 28% 25% 28% 30% 28% 26% 27% 26% 28%
1.5 caps to less than 2 caps 14% 16% 13% 11% 18% 17% 18% 14% 13% 10% 13%
2 caps to less than 2.5 caps 10% 6% 12% 12% 12% 12% 8% 8% 15% 10% 10%
2.5 caps to less than 3 caps 5% 5% 5% 4% 2% 3% 6% 7% 4% 7% 6%
3 caps to less than 3.5 caps 3% 3% 5% 3% 2% 1% 5% 2% 4% 2% 9%
3.5 caps to less than 4 caps 2% - - 1% 1% 3% 2% 1% 5% 2% 1%
4 caps to less than 4.5 caps 1% - 1% 1% 1% 2% - - 2% 1% 1%
4.5 caps to less than 5 caps 1% 2% - - 1% 1% 1% - 1% 1% 1%
5 caps or more 2% 3% 2% 4% 1% 1% 3% 1% 5% 2% 1%
Chapter 3 Survey results
44
Less than 1 cap 34% 35% 36% 39% 35% 30% 30% 42% 23% 40% 31%
1 cap to less than 2 caps 42% 47% 40% 36% 46% 47% 46% 41% 40% 36% 40%
2 caps to less than 3 caps 15% 12% 17% 16% 14% 15% 14% 14% 19% 17% 16%
3 caps to less than 4 caps 5% 3% 5% 4% 2% 4% 7% 3% 9% 3% 10%
4 caps to less than 5 caps 1% 2% 1% 1% 2% 3% 1% - 3% 1% 2%
5 caps and more 2% 3% 2% 4% 1% 1% 3% 1% 5% 2% 1%
Mean 1,53 1,46 1,46 1,48 1,44 1,55 1,64 1,33 1,89 1,47 1,65
In terms of quantities, most people (42%) use on one occasion one cap to less than two caps of floor
cleaners. Quantities are slightly higher for this product class than for kitchen cleaners or all purpose
cleaners.
A third (34%) use less than one cap, while only 15% use two to less than three caps. On average, 1,5
caps are used.
Chapter 3 Survey results
45
3.4 Glass and window cleaners
Three-quarters of the respondents (75%) have used glass and window cleaners at least once during
the 6 months before the survey.
Use frequency
Q.40. How often do you use glass and window cleaners in your home ? (only one answer possible)
N= 1487
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1487 120 141 198 179 164 201 108 104 161 111
At least once a day 4% 4% 1% 4% 7% 3% % 5% 4% 5% 4%
Several times a week 11% 9% 9% 14% 20% 13% 5% 14% 17% 7% 6%
Once a week 23% 22% 20% 23% 32% 21% 23% 26% 19% 16% 31%
Once every two weeks 17% 13% 18% 21% 16% 13% 19% 23% 13% 16% 11%
Once a month 22% 23% 26% 20% 14% 22% 23% 22% 26% 19% 28%
Less than once a month 21% 28% 24% 14% 11% 26% 27% 8% 18% 33% 19%
Do not know 2% 2% 4% 4% - 2% 1% 2% 2% 3% 2%
Daily 4% 4% 1% 4% 7% 3% % 5% 4% 5% 4%
Weekly 34% 31% 28% 37% 52% 34% 29% 40% 37% 24% 37%
Monthly 39% 36% 43% 41% 30% 35% 43% 45% 39% 35% 39%
Less than once a month 21% 28% 24% 14% 11% 26% 27% 8% 18% 33% 19%
Do not know 2% 2% 4% 4% - 2% 1% 2% 2% 3% 2%
At least once a week 38% 35% 29% 41% 59% 37% 29% 44% 40% 29% 41%
At least once a month 77% 71% 72% 82% 89% 72% 72% 90% 80% 64% 79%
Less than once a month 21% 28% 24% 14% 11% 26% 27% 8% 18% 33% 19%
Do not know 2% 2% 4% 4% - 2% 1% 2% 2% 3% 2%
Most people who use glass and window cleaner do it monthly (39%), using the product once or twice
a month. Slightly fewer consumers use the product weekly (34%), and only 4% use it on a daily basis.
In Spain people use glass and window cleaners more frequently as 52% do it on a weekly basis.
Chapter 3 Survey results
46
Time of day when the product is used
Q.41. When do you normally use glass and window cleaners ? (several answers possible)
N= 1487
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1487 120 141 198 179 164 201 108 104 161 111
Mostly in the afternoon (between
12am and 6pm) 30% 33% 34% 32% 20% 24% 26% 28% 38% 27% 35%
Mostly in the morning (between 6am
and 12am) 28% 15% 24% 17% 57% 37% 23% 47% 32% 9% 26%
Mostly in the evening (between 6pm
and 12pm) 11% 14% 15% 15% 14% 10% 2% 10% 10% 16% 5%
Mostly in the night (between 12pm
and 6am) % - 1% 1% - 1% - - - - 1%
At any time, no specific moment 36% 43% 35% 42% 13% 35% 51% 21% 25% 50% 38%
Consumers prefer using the product either in the afternoon (30%) or in the morning (28%), rather
than during the evening (11%). Those in Spain (57%) and Italy (47%) are more likely than the overall
consumer population to use glass and window cleaners in the morning.
Room where the product is used
Q.42. In which room(s) do you normally use glass and window cleaners ? (several answers possible)
N= 1487
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1487 120 141 198 179 164 201 108 104 161 111
Living/dining room 79% 84% 83% 59% 84% 85% 77% 83% 79% 72% 87%
Bathroom 71% 68% 72% 79% 64% 70% 70% 76% 64% 71% 68%
Kitchen 70% 75% 72% 54% 60% 72% 74% 81% 76% 60% 77%
Bedroom 67% 68% 72% 47% 74% 70% 73% 81% 57% 54% 76%
WC 31% 19% 43% 43% 28% 15% 22% 28% 29% 48% 33%
Hallway 26% 29% 23% 31% 20% 11% 26% 12% 32% 45% 32%
Closet/Storage room 10% 5% 11% 12% 30% 7% 9% 9% 6% 3% 8%
Other room in the
house 16% 28% 18% 23% 9% 10% 14% 19% 7% 15% 13%
Glass and window cleaners are mostly used in living rooms (79%), but also in bathrooms (71%) ,
kitchens (70%) and bedrooms (67%). Users in Italy and the UK are more likely than the overall
population (81% and 76% respectively, vs 67%) to employ the product in the bedroom.
Chapter 3 Survey results
47
Surfaces on which the product is used
Q.43. On which surface(s) do you use glass and window cleaners ? (several answers possible)
N= 1487
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1487 120 141 198 179 164 201 108 104 161 111
Windows 88% 94% 87% 74% 90% 88% 97% 92% 94% 83% 87%
Mirrors 86% 89% 86% 89% 79% 80% 96% 81% 89% 91% 79%
Doors 16% 20% 16% 7% 17% 11% 33% 18% 19% 4% 14%
Shower 8% 5% 9% 7% 8% 10% 5% 19% 8% 4% 8%
Furniture 8% 8% 7% 5% 10% 12% 9% 7% 12% 4% 7%
Electrical kitchen appliances
(oven, stove, etc) 7% 11% 5% 8% 8% 9% 6% 6% 10% 2% 3%
Sink 4% 3% 6% 7% 3% 2% % 5% 3% 1% 3%
Toilet 3% 1% 4% 6% 7% 4% % 2% 6% 1% 2%
Floor 3% 1% 4% 4% 3% 1% - 6% 6% 2% 2%
Bathtub 2% 3% 4% 2% 4% 1% 1% 3% 4% 1% 1%
Walls 2% 1% 3% 3% 6% 1% % 4% 2% 1% 2%
Other surface 6% 7% 3% 11% 4% 9% 4% 6% 3% 7% 3%
The product is mostly used on windows (88%) and mirrors (86%), and not as much on other surfaces
such as doors (16%), showers (8%) or furniture (8%).
Protection measures
Use of gloves
Q.44.1. How, if at all, do you protect yourself when using glass and window cleaners ? I wear gloves (only
one answer possible)
N= 1487
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1487 120 141 198 179 164 201 108 104 161 111
Always 13% 5% 10% 13% 14% 10% 11% 26% 17% 9% 15%
Sometimes 18% 19% 16% 16% 20% 15% 14% 22% 33% 16% 18%
Never 69% 76% 74% 72% 66% 76% 75% 52% 50% 75% 67%
Chapter 3 Survey results
48
Wearing gloves when using the product is not very common, as 69% of the respondents never take
this measure. Only 13% of them always wear protective gloves when using glass and window
cleaners.
Use of protection mask
Q.44.2. How, if at all, do you protect yourself when using glass and window cleaners ? I wear a
protection mask (only one answer possible)
N= 1487
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1487 120 141 198 179 164 201 108 104 161 111
Always 2% 1% 4% 4% 2% 2% 1% 3% 4% - 2%
Sometimes 5% 2% 1% 6% 7% 4% 4% 10% 8% 3% 8%
Never 93% 97% 95% 90% 91% 94% 95% 87% 88% 97% 90%
As for other products (all purpose cleaners, kitchen cleaners), most people never wear a mask as a
protection measure when using glass and window cleaners (93%).
Avoiding contact with the product
Q.44.3. How, if at all, do you protect yourself when using glass and window cleaners ? I avoid getting the
product in contact with my eyes or mouth (only one answer possible)
N= 1487
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1487 120 141 198 179 164 201 108 104 161 111
Always 77% 83% 78% 76% 76% 78% 75% 82% 80% 68% 72%
Sometimes 7% 6% 4% 7% 8% 9% 1% 6% 12% 9% 9%
Never 16% 11% 18% 17% 16% 13% 24% 11% 9% 23% 19%
Over three-quarters (77%) avoid getting the product in contact with their eyes or mouth. Similarly to
previous sections, consumers from Hungary are less cautions about avoiding contact with the
product: 24% of them never take this precautionary measure, compared to 16% of the overall
population.
Avoiding using the product in combination with other products
Q.44.4. How, if at all, do you protect yourself when using glass and window cleaners ? I avoid using the
product in combination with other detergents or bleach (only one answer possible)
N= 1487
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1487 120 141 198 179 164 201 108 104 161 111
Always 61% 56% 55% 64% 65% 66% 64% 74% 63% 47% 55%
Sometimes 12% 19% 14% 11% 13% 9% 6% 11% 17% 11% 14%
Never 27% 25% 30% 25% 22% 25% 30% 15% 20% 42% 31%
Chapter 3 Survey results
49
When using glass and window cleaners, 61% of the respondents always avoid combining them with
other products or bleach. Slightly over a quarter (27%) tend not to avoid these combinations.
Users in Italy are the most careful when it comes to avoiding combinations between glass and
window cleaners and other products (74%).
Room ventilation
Q.44.5. How, if at all, do you protect yourself when using glass and window cleaners ? I ventilate the room
(only one answer possible)
N= 1487
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1487 120 141 198 179 164 201 108 104 161 111
Always 49% 53% 56% 46% 57% 52% 69% 60% 45% 21% 33%
Sometimes 29% 38% 23% 32% 22% 28% 19% 30% 36% 35% 30%
Never 22% 10% 21% 22% 21% 20% 12% 10% 19% 44% 37%
Half of the users (49%) regularly ventilate the room when handling glass and window cleaners.
Hungarian users are more likely than others to ventilate when using the product (69%).
A fifth (22%) of the respondents never ventilate when using the product. Ventilation is less common
in Sweden, where 44% of the consumers never ventilate when using the product.
Q.45. Which of the following statements best describe how you ventilate the room when using glass and
window cleaners ? (several answers possible)
N= 1164
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1164 108 111 155 141 132 176 97 84 90 70
I open the window(s) 92% 97% 94% 83% 87% 92% 97% 94% 98% 91% 86%
I open the indoor door(s) 28% 22% 31% 27% 33% 21% 30% 27% 21% 21% 46%
I open the outdoor door(s) 17% 10% 7% 24% 21% 17% 22% 11% 11% 20% 29%
I use a mechanical (rotary) fan 2% 2% 2% 5% 3% 1% 3% 2% 4% 1% 1%
I use an electric in built
fan/ventilation system 2% 3% - 5% 1% 3% 1% 2% 2% 3% 3%
I ventilate in another way 1% 1% 2% 5% 1% 1% - 1% - 2% -
Most users ventilate by opening the window (92%), while 28% do it by opening the indoor door, and
17% by opening the outdoor door.
Chapter 3 Survey results
50
Q.46. When do you ventilate the room ? (only one answer possible)
N= 1164
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1164 108 111 155 141 132 176 97 84 90 70
I ventilate the room during the use of
the product 34% 38% 43% 31% 32% 33% 28% 26% 31% 49% 37%
I ventilate the room during the use of
the product and for less than 15 minutes
afterwards
24% 25% 23% 23% 26% 26% 28% 27% 19% 20% 16%
I ventilate the room during the use of
the product and for at least 15 minutes
afterwards
34% 31% 25% 26% 39% 32% 40% 43% 44% 14% 43%
I do not ventilate the room during the
use of the product but I do it for less than
15 minutes afterwards
4% 3% 5% 8% 1% 7% 2% 2% 1% 9% 1%
I do not ventilate the room during the
use of the product but I do it for at least
15 minutes afterwards
4% 3% 4% 11% 2% 2% 2% 2% 5% 8% 3%
Ventilate during the use of the product 92% 94% 91% 81% 96% 91% 96% 96% 94% 83% 96%
Ventilate after the use of the product 8% 6% 9% 19% 4% 9% 4% 4% 6% 17% 4%
The majority ventilate during the use of the product (92%), while 8% do it only after having used it.
Respecting product use instructions
Q.47. Do you read the instructions before using a glass and windows cleaner for the first time ? (only one
answer possible)
N= 1487
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1487 120 141 198 179 164 201 108 104 161 111
Yes 61% 70% 48% 51% 64% 38% 75% 75% 74% 57% 68%
No 36% 27% 47% 45% 32% 57% 24% 22% 21% 41% 31%
The product you use does not come
with instructions 3% 3% 6% 4% 3% 5% 1% 3% 5% 2% 1%
Among consumers across the 10 countries, 61% read the instructions before using a glass and
window cleaner for the first time. However, slightly over a third (36%) don’t read these.
In France consumers are less likely to read the instructions when using a new glass and window
cleaner (57% declare not reading these when using a product for the first time).
Chapter 3 Survey results
51
Q.48. Do you usually respect the recommended quantities ? (only one answer possible)
N= 1487
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1487 120 141 198 179 164 201 108 104 161 111
Yes 57% 62% 60% 49% 57% 43% 65% 69% 60% 45% 63%
No, I use more product than what is
recommended 13% 13% 6% 10% 20% 12% 11% 10% 19% 24% 12%
No, I use less product than what is
recommended 5% 6% 6% 6% 3% 9% 3% 9% 2% 4% -
There are no recommendations
regarding quantities for the product you
are using
12% 6% 11% 12% 13% 25% 7% 6% 11% 10% 17%
Do not know 13% 14% 16% 24% 7% 11% 13% 5% 9% 17% 8%
Use the recommended quantities or less 62% 68% 67% 55% 60% 52% 68% 79% 62% 50% 63%
No, i use more product than what is
recommended 13% 13% 6% 10% 20% 12% 11% 10% 19% 24% 12%
There are no recommendations
regarding quantities for the product you
are using
12% 6% 11% 12% 13% 25% 7% 6% 11% 10% 17%
Do not know 13% 14% 16% 24% 7% 11% 13% 5% 9% 17% 8%
Regarding quantities, most people (62%) use as much product as is recommended, or less, while 13%
use more product than indicated. Among users in Sweden, nearly a quarter (24%) use more product
than what is recommended.
Most frequently used brands
Q.49.a. Which of the following types of glass and window cleaners do you use most in your household ? (up
to 3 answers possible)
N= 1487
All
1487
Ajax 31%
Clin 15%
Glassex 10%
The most frequently used brand of glass and window cleaners is Ajax, as stated by 31% of the
respondents across the 10 countries. Other popular brands are Clin (15%) and Glassex (10%).
Chapter 3 Survey results
52
Most frequently used formats
Q.49.b. What format do you use most? (several answers possible)
N= 1487
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1487 120 141 198 179 164 201 108 104 161 111
Spray 67% 63% 50% 77% 60% 76% 57% 67% 61% 73% 88%
Liquid 42% 57% 52% 27% 50% 26% 60% 43% 62% 33% 18%
Wipes / Tissues 7% 3% 4% 5% 6% 11% 2% 9% 6% 12% 10%
Spray is the preferred format for glass and window cleaners for most consumers (67%), while liquid is
slightly less frequently used (42%). Only in Poland , Hungary and Denmark are as many using liquids
as are using sprays.
Product dilution and rinsing
Q.50.a. Do you dilute glass and windows cleaners in water before use? (only one answer possible)
N= 655
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
655 70 75 54 92 47 122 49 64 56 26
Yes, every time 13% 4% 19% 11% 11% 6% 6% 20% 17% 16% 27%
Yes, most of the times 15% 17% 16% 20% 13% 13% 6% 35% 14% 13% 12%
Yes but rarely 9% 11% 9% 7% 4% 2% 6% 8% 17% 13% 15%
Never 62% 67% 56% 61% 72% 79% 83% 37% 52% 59% 46%
Every time/most of the times 28% 21% 35% 31% 24% 19% 11% 55% 31% 29% 38%
Rarely/never 72% 79% 65% 69% 76% 81% 89% 45% 69% 71% 62%
Unlike for other cleaning products, most people tend not to dilute glass and window cleaners in
water before using them (9% do this rarely while 62% don’t dilute at all). Only 28% dilute the product
before using it, either regularly or on most occasions. The practice is more common in Italy, with
55% of the respondents dilute the product in water before use.
Chapter 3 Survey results
53
Q.50.b. Most of the times, when you dilute your glass and windows cleaner in water, is it in ...(only one
answer possible)?
N= 233
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
233 23 33 21 26 10 21 31 31 23 14
Cold water 22% 22% 21% - 46% 20% 24% 39% 19% - 14%
Lukewarm water 64% 70% 67% 48% 42% 50% 76% 52% 71% 83% 71%
Hot water 13% 9% 12% 52% 12% 30% - 3% 10% 17% 7%
Don't know 1% - - - - - - 6% - - 7%
Among those who dilute, 64% prefer doing this in lukewarm water, while 22% rather do it in cold
water, and 13% in hot water. Users in Denmark are more likely to dilute the product in hot water
(52%), while 46% among those in Spain tend to use cold water to dilute the product.
Q.51. After using glass and windows cleaners, do you rinse the surface where the product was used? (only
one answer possible)
N= 1487
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1487 120 141 198 179 164 201 108 104 161 111
Yes, every time 16% 9% 16% 20% 23% 9% 14% 22% 15% 11% 15%
Yes, most of the times 12% 13% 12% 12% 14% 6% 4% 34% 12% 11% 9%
Yes but rarely 9% 12% 9% 8% 6% 6% 8% 4% 15% 13% 14%
Never 63% 67% 63% 60% 56% 79% 74% 40% 58% 66% 62%
Every time/most of the times 28% 22% 28% 32% 37% 15% 18% 56% 27% 21% 24%
Rarely/never 72% 78% 72% 68% 63% 85% 82% 44% 73% 79% 76%
Most users don’t rinse the surface where they have used glass and window cleaners (63% declare
they never do this, while 9% do it rarely). Only 28% of the users rinse regularly rinses the surface
after using glass and window cleaners. Consumers in Italy are more rigorous, as 56% of them rinse
the surface after using the product.
Chapter 3 Survey results
54
Quantities of product used
Q.52.b. How much glass and windows cleaner do you use on one occasion i.e. Each time you clean your
home ? (only one answer possible)
N= 997
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
997 75 71 153 107 125 115 72 63 118 98
1 spraying 10% 17% 8% 13% 7% 10% 3% 11% 6% 2% 15%
2 sprayings 24% 16% 28% 26% 38% 23% 16% 31% 13% 22% 30%
3 sprayings 24% 28% 20% 24% 26% 22% 21% 28% 38% 20% 18%
4 sprayings 12% 5% 8% 15% 12% 10% 16% 10% 11% 17% 9%
5 sprayings 6% 9% 6% 4% 3% 7% 8% 3% 8% 8% 7%
More than 5 sprayings 24% 24% 30% 18% 14% 28% 37% 18% 24% 31% 20%
1 spraying 10% 17% 8% 13% 7% 10% 3% 11% 6% 2% 15%
2 to 3 sprayings 48% 44% 48% 50% 64% 46% 37% 58% 51% 42% 48%
4 to 5 sprayings 18% 15% 14% 19% 15% 17% 23% 13% 19% 25% 16%
More than 5 sprayings 24% 24% 30% 18% 14% 28% 37% 18% 24% 31% 20%
Mean 3,53 3,45 3,63 3,25 3,08 3,66 4,23 3,17 3,73 4,01 3,24
Among those who use the product in spray format, most of them (48%) apply two to three sprayings
on each occasion. Fewer users apply more product (18% - four to five sprayings), while almost as
many (24%) use more than 5 sprayings. The average is 3.5 sprayings.
Chapter 3 Survey results
55
3.5 Bathroom cleaners
Bathroom cleaners are among the high penetration product classes, as 77% of the respondents have
used them.
Use frequency
Q.53. How often do you use bathroom cleaning products in your home ? (only one answer possible)
N= 1487
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1487 120 140 196 179 160 202 109 104 165 112
At least once a day 9% 5% 8% 6% 16% 8% 9% 17% 10% 11% 5%
Several times a week 34% 41% 21% 29% 39% 34% 31% 48% 46% 28% 30%
Once a week 37% 33% 42% 32% 34% 38% 44% 32% 35% 37% 46%
Once every two weeks 10% 14% 12% 14% 8% 9% 6% 4% 8% 12% 11%
Once a month 5% 6% 5% 11% 1% 6% 4% - 1% 7% 4%
Less than once a month 3% 1% 6% 5% 2% 3% 3% - - 4% 3%
Do not know 2% 1% 5% 5% 1% 2% 2% - 1% 2% 1%
Daily 9% 5% 8% 6% 16% 8% 9% 17% 10% 11% 5%
Weekly 71% 73% 64% 60% 73% 72% 75% 80% 81% 65% 76%
Monthly 15% 20% 17% 24% 9% 15% 11% 4% 9% 18% 15%
Less than once a month 3% 1% 6% 5% 2% 3% 3% - - 4% 3%
Do not know 2% 1% 5% 5% 1% 2% 2% - 1% 2% 1%
At least once a week 80% 78% 71% 66% 89% 80% 84% 96% 90% 76% 81%
At least once a month 95% 98% 89% 91% 98% 95% 95% 100% 99% 95% 96%
Less than once a month 3% 1% 6% 5% 2% 3% 3% - - 4% 3%
Do not know 2% 1% 5% 5% 1% 2% 2% - 1% 2% 1%
For bathroom cleaners consumers, most people use weekly (71% use them once or several times a
week), while fewer use them monthly (15%) or daily (9%).
Chapter 3 Survey results
56
Time of day when the product is used
Q.54. When do you normally use bathroom cleaning products ? (several answers possible)
N= 1487
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1487 120 140 196 179 160 202 109 104 165 112
Mostly in the morning (between
6am and 12am) 29% 16% 28% 21% 53% 39% 18% 50% 24% 13% 35%
Mostly in the afternoon (between
12am and 6pm) 24% 23% 26% 29% 19% 23% 20% 21% 24% 21% 30%
Mostly in the evening (between
6pm and 12pm) 15% 18% 11% 12% 17% 9% 12% 10% 35% 13% 12%
Mostly in the night (between 12pm
and 6am) 1% 1% 1% 1% 2% 2% - - 2% 1% 1%
At any time, no specific moment 37% 44% 40% 44% 16% 33% 52% 25% 24% 53% 29%
People tend to use the product either in the morning (29%) or the afternoon (24%), and less during
the evening (15%). In Southern Europe, bathroom cleaners are most often used in the morning, as
53% of the Spanish and 50% of the Italians use the product between 6am and 12 am.
Room where the product is used
Q.55. In which room(s) do you normally use bathroom cleaning products ? (several answers possible)
N= 1487
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1487 120 140 196 179 160 202 109 104 165 112
Bathroom 96% 98% 97% 92% 92% 97% 99% 94% 94% 96% 96%
WC 64% 63% 61% 67% 59% 54% 71% 63% 67% 76% 52%
Kitchen 11% 18% 3% 6% 4% 16% 22% 9% 17% 4% 9%
Closet/Storage room 3% 2% - 1% 26% 1% % 2% - - 4%
Living/dining room 2% 1% 2% 1% 1% 1% 2% 1% 3% 1% 5%
Hallway 2% 4% 1% 2% 1% 1% 5% - 2% - 1%
Bedroom 1% 1% - 2% 4% - - 4% - - 2%
Other room in the house 1% 1% - 2% 1% 1% 1% - 2% 1% -
As intended, the product is mainly used in the bathrooms (96%) or WC (64%).
Chapter 3 Survey results
57
Surfaces on which the product is used
Q.56. On which surface(s) do you use bathroom cleaning products ? (several answers possible)
N= 1487
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1487 120 140 196 179 160 202 109 104 165 112
Toilet 80% 65% 79% 86% 78% 60% 85% 88% 82% 90% 82%
Shower 73% 70% 79% 71% 76% 72% 63% 79% 70% 78% 75%
Bathtub 71% 87% 76% 27% 77% 74% 89% 72% 74% 61% 85%
Sink 61% 27% 83% 76% 45% 64% 75% 66% 63% 13% 90%
Walls 29% 29% 34% 35% 29% 28% 25% 16% 28% 39% 26%
Floor 28% 23% 23% 36% 35% 23% 19% 34% 38% 34% 21%
Mirrors 21% 25% 12% 26% 21% 22% 24% 14% 30% 24% 13%
Doors 10% 8% 5% 10% 4% 11% 15% 6% 12% 13% 11%
Furniture 8% 20% 4% 3% 20% 17% 5% 8% 5% 3% 4%
Windows 6% 3% 1% 7% 7% 6% 5% 9% 9% 4% 7%
Electrical kitchen appliances
(oven, stove, etc) 2% 3% - 2% 1% 1% 3% 4% 4% 1% 2%
Other surface 5% 8% 1% 3% 3% 3% 7% 1% 2% 16% 3%
Bathroom cleaners are mainly used on toilets (80%), showers (73%), bathtubs (71%), sinks (61%).
Protection measures
Use of gloves
Q.57.1. How, if at all, do you protect yourself when using bathroom cleaning products ? I wear gloves (only
one answer possible)
N= 1487
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1487 120 140 196 179 160 202 109 104 165 112
Always 23% 17% 17% 22% 34% 16% 19% 36% 35% 13% 26%
Sometimes 29% 38% 24% 27% 26% 31% 33% 27% 38% 26% 23%
Never 48% 45% 59% 51% 40% 53% 48% 38% 28% 61% 51%
Nearly a quarter of the respondents (23%) always wear gloves when using bathroom cleaners, while
29% adopt this measure occasionally. Almost half of the respondents (48%) never wear gloves when
using bathroom cleaners.
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People are more prone to wearing gloves in countries such as Spain (34%), Italy (36%) and Poland
(35%).
Use of protection mask
Q.57.2. How, if at all, do you protect yourself when using bathroom cleaning products ? I wear a protection
mask (only one answer possible)
N= 1487
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1487 120 140 196 179 160 202 109 104 165 112
Always 3% 2% 1% 3% 5% 2% 2% 5% 5% 1% 4%
Sometimes 7% 3% 1% 5% 12% 6% 11% 14% 10% 1% 7%
Never 90% 95% 97% 93% 83% 92% 87% 82% 86% 98% 89%
The majority (90%) tend not to wear a mask as a protection measure when using the product.
Avoiding contact with the product
Q.57.3. How, if at all, do you protect yourself when using bathroom cleaning products ? I avoid getting the
product in contact with my eyes or mouth (only one answer possible)
N= 1487
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1487 120 140 196 179 160 202 109 104 165 112
Always 81% 89% 76% 86% 81% 86% 81% 84% 88% 70% 72%
Sometimes 5% 4% 4% 5% 7% 7% 1% 2% 7% 5% 6%
Never 14% 7% 21% 9% 12% 8% 18% 14% 6% 25% 21%
Most bathroom cleaners users avoid getting the product in contact with their eyes or mouth (81%).
Users in Czech Republic (89%) and in Poland (88%) are more attentive then the overall population.
Avoiding using the product in combination with other products
Q.57.4. How, if at all, do you protect yourself when using bathroom cleaning products ? I avoid using the
product in combination with other detergents or bleach (only one answer possible)
N= 1487
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1487 120 140 196 179 160 202 109 104 165 112
Always 61% 57% 51% 69% 66% 68% 70% 76% 55% 45% 52%
Sometimes 16% 20% 14% 12% 20% 16% 6% 8% 27% 16% 18%
Never 23% 23% 34% 18% 13% 16% 23% 16% 18% 38% 30%
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Among bathroom cleaners users, 61% always avoid combining the products with other detergents or
bleach. Almost a quarter of the respondents (23%) tend to mix bathroom cleaners with other
products.
Users in Sweden (38%) and those in Germany (34%) are more likely than others to use bathroom
cleaners in combination with other products.
Room ventilation
Q.57.5. How, if at all, do you protect yourself when using bathroom cleaning products ? I ventilate the room
(only one answer possible)
N= 1487
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1487 120 140 196 179 160 202 109 104 165 112
Always 56% 48% 54% 65% 68% 69% 73% 71% 52% 22% 40%
Sometimes 25% 34% 25% 21% 21% 23% 17% 18% 32% 28% 32%
Never 19% 18% 21% 14% 11% 8% 10% 11% 16% 50% 28%
Just over half of the respondents (56%) ventilate the room regularly after using bathroom cleaners. A
quarter (25%) ventilate sometimes, while 19% never ventilate.
People are more likely to ventilate regularly in countries such as Hungary (73%), Italy (71%) France
(69%) and Spain (68%).
In Sweden, half of the users don’t ventilate when using the product.
Q.58. Which of the following statements best describe how you ventilate the room when using bathroom
cleaning products ? (several answers possible)
N= 1212
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1212 98 111 168 159 147 181 97 87 83 81
I open the window(s) 76% 65% 86% 80% 73% 78% 74% 91% 56% 58% 85%
I open the indoor door(s) 45% 53% 37% 40% 48% 44% 55% 26% 53% 49% 44%
I open the outdoor door(s) 14% 11% 7% 20% 18% 14% 25% 13% 6% 13% 11%
I use an electric in built
fan/ventilation system 7% 11% 5% 5% 4% 7% 7% 1% 7% 16% 10%
I use a mechanical (rotary) fan 3% 2% - 2% 3% - 3% 5% 10% 4% 2%
I ventilate in another way 2% 2% - 4% 2% 3% 1% - 6% 5% -
The results show a different pattern when it comes to ventilation than for other product classes (all
purpose cleaners, kitchen cleaners, floor cleaners). Users of bathroom cleaners are therefore more
likely to ventilate by opening the door and slightly less tempted to ventilate by opening the window
Chapter 3 Survey results
60
than for the other product classes – although windows are still the most common ventilation
technique. Three quarters of those who ventilate do it by opening the window (a smaller proportion
than among the users of previous product classes); 45% ventilate by opening the window door (a
higher percentage than for previous product classes. These differences may be related to
characteristics of certain dwellings (ie no windows/inaccessible windows in bathrooms or WC). Use
patterns vary by country, as in Italy people are more likely to ventilate by opening the windows
(91%), while in Hungary, Czech Republic and Poland users are more likely to ventilate by opening the
indoor door (more than 50% in each country).
Q.59. When do you ventilate the room ? (only one answer possible)
N= 1212
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1212 98 111 168 159 147 181 97 87 83 81
I ventilate the room during the use of
the product 27% 20% 32% 30% 22% 24% 21% 28% 22% 36% 38%
I ventilate the room during the use of
the product and for less than 15 minutes
afterwards
24% 29% 20% 22% 30% 26% 27% 26% 20% 18% 22%
I ventilate the room during the use of
the product and for at least 15 minutes
afterwards
41% 43% 40% 33% 42% 45% 50% 40% 46% 31% 33%
I do not ventilate the room during the
use of the product but I do it for less than
15 minutes afterwards
4% 3% 3% 7% 3% 3% 1% 3% 7% 10% 2%
I do not ventilate the room during the
use of the product but I do it for at least
15 minutes afterwards
4% 5% 5% 9% 4% 2% 1% 3% 6% 5% 4%
Ventilate during the use of the product 92% 92% 92% 85% 94% 95% 98% 94% 87% 86% 94%
Ventilate after the use of the product 8% 8% 8% 15% 6% 5% 2% 6% 13% 14% 6%
In line with the behaviour patterns related to the use of other product classes, most of those who
ventilate tend to do it during the use of the product (92%), while 8% do it only after having used the
product.
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61
Respecting product use instructions
Q.60. Do you read the instructions before using a bathroom cleaning product for the first time ? (only one
answer possible) (only one answer possible)
N= 1487
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1487 120 140 196 179 160 202 109 104 165 112
Yes 75% 77% 64% 71% 76% 72% 87% 81% 90% 68% 71%
No 22% 21% 31% 27% 21% 25% 13% 17% 6% 29% 27%
The product you use does not come
with instructions 3% 3% 6% 2% 3% 3% - 3% 4% 3% 2%
Most consumers read the instructions before using a new bathroom cleaner for the first time (75%).
Users in certain Eastern European countries are more careful when it comes to reading instructions
then users in other countries (90% in Poland and 87% in Hungary). Consumers in Northern Europe
are slightly less likely to read the instructions (29% of those in Sweden and 31% of those in Denmark
do not read the instructions before using a bathroom cleaner for the first time).
Q.61. Do you usually respect the recommended quantities ? (only one answer possible)
N= 1487
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1487 120 140 196 179 160 202 109 104 165 112
Yes 64% 67% 66% 64% 64% 58% 71% 70% 68% 59% 57%
No, I use more product than what is
recommended 14% 14% 6% 13% 17% 19% 11% 9% 15% 19% 16%
No, I use less product than what is
recommended 5% 3% 9% 4% 6% 5% 4% 8% 3% 5% 6%
There are no recommendations
regarding quantities for the product you
are using
7% 8% 7% 4% 9% 9% 2% 6% 5% 5% 15%
Do not know 9% 8% 12% 15% 4% 9% 11% 6% 9% 12% 5%
Use the recommended quantities or less 70% 70% 75% 68% 69% 63% 75% 78% 71% 65% 63%
No, i use more product than what is
recommended 14% 14% 6% 13% 17% 19% 11% 9% 15% 19% 16%
There are no recommendations
regarding quantities for the product you
are using
7% 8% 7% 4% 9% 9% 2% 6% 5% 5% 15%
Do not know 9% 8% 12% 15% 4% 9% 11% 6% 9% 12% 5%
Chapter 3 Survey results
62
Most users (70%) use the recommended quantities of bathroom cleaners, or less product than is
recommended, while 14% use the product in larger quantities than is recommended; an important
minority (9%) don’t know whether or not they are using the recommended quantitities.
Most frequently used brands
Q.62.a. Which of the following bathroom cleaning products do you use most in your household ? (up to 3
answers possible)
N= 1487
All
1487
Ajax 24%
Cif 21%
Cillit Bang 18%
Taking into account results across the 10 countries, the most popular brands of bathroom cleaners
are Ajax (chosen by 24% of those who use bathroom cleaners), as well as Cif (21%) and Cillit Bang
(18%).
Most frequently used formats
Q.62.b. What format do you use most? (several answers possible)
N= 1487
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1487 120 140 196 179 160 202 109 104 165 112
Liquid 67% 65% 74% 70% 77% 48% 84% 68% 73% 59% 51%
Spray 51% 47% 47% 42% 31% 68% 45% 42% 40% 75% 72%
Gel 21% 40% 6% 8% 27% 19% 29% 31% 46% 4% 12%
Most users prefer bathroom cleaners in liquid format (67%). Spray is the second most popular format
(51%), while only 21% use the product as gel. Most users in Sweden (75%), the UK (72%) and France
(68%) prefer bathroom cleaners in spray format, these being the only countries where spray is the
most popular format.
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63
Product dilution and rinsing
Q.63.a. Do you dilute your bathroom cleaning product in water before use? (only one answer possible)
N= 1165
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1165 109 105 150 159 100 184 95 94 103 66
Yes, every time 23% 15% 33% 36% 25% 30% 9% 24% 11% 18% 24%
Yes, most of the times 22% 23% 20% 24% 25% 24% 16% 34% 15% 23% 17%
Yes but rarely 14% 17% 12% 13% 14% 11% 17% 13% 17% 14% 9%
Never 42% 46% 34% 27% 36% 35% 58% 29% 57% 45% 50%
Every time/most of the times 45% 38% 53% 60% 50% 54% 25% 58% 26% 42% 41%
Rarely/never 55% 62% 47% 40% 50% 46% 75% 42% 74% 58% 59%
Just over half of the users (55%) don’t usually dilute bathroom cleaners into water; 45% regularly
dilute the product.
Behaviour varies across the different countries, as users in Denmark are more likely to dilute the
product before using it (60%), contrary to those in Hungary (75%) and Poland (74%) who are less
inclined to dilute bathroom cleaners.
Q.63.b. Most of the times, when you dilute your bathroom cleaning product in water, is it in ...(only one
answer possible)
N= 679
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
679 59 69 109 102 65 78 67 40 57 33
Cold water 20% 25% 9% 6% 38% 20% 15% 43% 18% 9% 18%
Lukewarm water 55% 59% 78% 39% 51% 52% 68% 43% 75% 37% 58%
Hot water 24% 14% 13% 52% 9% 28% 17% 12% 8% 54% 24%
Don't know 1% 2% - 2% 2% - - 1% - - -
Among those who dilute, just over half (55%) do it in lukewarm water, while 24% prefer hot water
and 20% prefer diluting in cold water.
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64
As with many other products, users in Denmark prefer diluting in hot water (52%).
Q.64. After using bathroom cleaning products, do you rinse the surface where the product was used? (only
one answer possible)
N= 1487
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1487 120 140 196 179 160 202 109 104 165 112
Yes, every time 54% 68% 64% 38% 53% 63% 67% 77% 38% 38% 41%
Yes, most of the times 25% 24% 21% 22% 24% 22% 23% 11% 33% 28% 39%
Yes but rarely 7% 3% 5% 10% 9% 4% 4% 3% 12% 15% 4%
Never 14% 5% 9% 29% 13% 11% 6% 9% 17% 19% 15%
Every time/most of the times 79% 92% 86% 61% 77% 84% 90% 88% 71% 66% 80%
Rarely/never 21% 8% 14% 39% 23% 16% 10% 12% 29% 34% 20%
Most consumers (79%) regularly rinse the surfaces where they have used bathroom cleaners; 21%
either do this rarely or not at all.
Rinsing is more common in certain Eastern European countries, as 92% of those in Czech Republic
and 90% of those in Hungary do this regularly after using the product. It is, on the other hand, slightly
less frequent in Northern Europe, with 39% of users in Denmark and 34% of those in Sweden rarely
rinse or don’t rinse at all.
Quantities of product used
Q.65.a. How much bathroom cleaning product do you use on one occasion i.e. Each time you clean your
home ? (only one answer possible)
N= 1006
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1006 78 103 138 137 76 170 74 76 97 57
Less than 0.5 cap 13% 9% 26% 19% 10% 12% 4% 22% 4% 12% 12%
0.5 cap to less than 1 cap 32% 28% 27% 32% 42% 36% 36% 42% 20% 30% 23%
1 cap to less than 1.5 caps 29% 27% 33% 28% 29% 25% 29% 27% 32% 26% 39%
1.5 caps to less than 2 caps 12% 17% 7% 12% 12% 20% 15% 1% 22% 12% 7%
2 caps to less than 2.5 caps 6% 12% 4% 6% 6% 7% 5% 4% 13% 5% 4%
2.5 caps to less than 3 caps 3% 3% 1% 2% 1% - 3% - 3% 8% 5%
3 caps and more 4% 5% 2% 1% - 1% 8% 4% 7% 6% 11%
Less than 1 cap 45% 37% 53% 51% 52% 47% 40% 64% 24% 42% 35%
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65
1 cap to less than 2 caps 42% 44% 40% 40% 41% 45% 44% 28% 54% 38% 46%
2 caps to less than 3 caps 9% 14% 5% 8% 7% 7% 8% 4% 16% 13% 9%
3 caps and more 4% 5% 2% 1% - 1% 8% 4% 7% 6% 11%
Mean 1,21 1,36 0,98 1,08 1,08 1,14 1,36 0,95 1,53 1,34 1,37
When it comes to quantities, most people either use less then one cap (45%), or one to less then two
caps (42%). Fewer people use between two and three caps (9%), or more then three caps (4%).
Consumers in Italy tend to use the product in slightly smaller quantities, as 64% use less then one
cap.
Chapter 3 Survey results
66
3.6 Furniture polish
Across the 10 countries, 35% of the respondents use furniture polish. The product is less used in
Denmark (11%) than it is in the other countries.
Use frequency
Q.66. How often do you use furniture polish in your home ? (only one answer possible)
N= 1239
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1239 111 90 47 181 159 189 87 102 162 111
At least once a day 4% 3% 1% 6% 9% 6% - 3% 4% 2% 4%
Several times a week 14% 5% 6% - 20% 18% 3% 28% 29% 1% 26%
Once a week 28% 25% 18% 11% 42% 37% 26% 36% 37% 3% 34%
Once every two weeks 15% 21% 21% 11% 15% 13% 23% 11% 10% 8% 14%
Once a month 17% 24% 27% 17% 8% 13% 26% 11% 11% 24% 12%
Less than once a month 19% 22% 23% 53% 6% 12% 18% 10% 6% 51% 11%
Do not know 3% 1% 4% 2% - 1% 3% - 3% 11% -
Daily 4% 3% 1% 6% 9% 6% - 3% 4% 2% 4%
Weekly 42% 30% 23% 11% 62% 55% 29% 63% 67% 4% 60%
Monthly 32% 45% 48% 28% 23% 26% 50% 23% 21% 32% 25%
Less than once a month 19% 22% 23% 53% 6% 12% 18% 10% 6% 51% 11%
Do not know 3% 1% 4% 2% - 1% 3% - 3% 11% -
At least once a week 46% 32% 24% 17% 71% 61% 29% 67% 71% 6% 64%
At least once a month 78% 77% 72% 45% 94% 87% 79% 90% 91% 38% 89%
Less than once a month 19% 22% 23% 53% 6% 12% 18% 10% 6% 51% 11%
Do not know 3% 1% 4% 2% - 1% 3% - 3% 11% -
Taking into account the results across the 10 countries, most people who use furniture polish do so
weekly (42% - once a week or more), while a third (32%) do so once or twice a month, and a fifth
(19%) use it less than once a month. Only 4% use furniture polish daily.
Chapter 3 Survey results
67
Time of day when the product is used
Q.67. When do you normally use furniture polish ? (several answers possible)
N= 1239
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1239 111 90 47 181 159 189 87 102 162 111
Mostly in the morning (between 6am
and 12am) 34% 16% 29% 23% 60% 50% 27% 55% 34% 12% 31%
Mostly in the afternoon (between 12am
and 6pm) 26% 32% 30% 21% 25% 26% 21% 21% 35% 19% 31%
Mostly in the evening (between 6pm
and 12pm) 10% 11% 12% 11% 9% 11% 2% 10% 14% 15% 11%
Mostly in the night (between 12pm and
6am) 1% - - 6% 1% 1% 1% - - 2% 2%
At any time, no specific moment 34% 41% 38% 40% 12% 21% 51% 18% 25% 54% 34%
People use furniture polish mostly in the morning (34%) or in the afternoon (26%). Only one in ten do
so in the evening. A third (34%) use furniture at any time, without having a specific moment of the
day.
Southern Europeans are more likely to use furniture polish in the morning (60% of the respondents in
Spain and 55% of those in Italy use the product between 6 am and 12 am).
Room where the product is used
Q.68. In which room(s) do you normally use furniture polish ? (several answers possible)
N= 1239
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1239 111 90 47 181 159 189 87 102 162 111
Living/dining room 93% 97% 98% 83% 90% 96% 80% 94% 91% 95% 98%
Bedroom 62% 60% 42% 15% 74% 73% 75% 76% 76% 23% 74%
Hallway 25% 25% 22% 9% 36% 19% 8% 17% 48% 20% 38%
Kitchen 21% 25% 24% 9% 19% 25% 17% 25% 30% 16% 13%
Closet/Storage room 8% 9% 12% 6% 9% 21% 12% 6% 1% 2% 5%
Bathroom 7% 2% 9% 11% 14% 12% 3% 11% 2% 3% 9%
WC 3% 1% 2% 6% 7% 4% - 2% 1% 1% 5%
Other room in the house 11% 23% 10% 2% 12% 9% 10% 13% 5% 14% 4%
Chapter 3 Survey results
68
Furniture polish is mainly used in living rooms (93%), and bedrooms (62%), and less in storage rooms
(8%) and in bathrooms (7%).
This is probably related to the type of the furniture and decorations typically found in each of these
rooms.
Protection measures
Use of gloves
Q.69.1. How, if at all, do you protect yourself when using furniture polish ? I wear gloves (only one answer
possible)
N= 1239
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1239 111 90 47 181 159 189 87 102 162 111
Always 16% 10% 18% 38% 23% 14% 7% 21% 18% 19% 12%
Sometimes 22% 23% 17% 21% 25% 18% 21% 21% 38% 25% 12%
Never 62% 68% 66% 40% 52% 68% 71% 59% 44% 56% 77%
Most users (62%) do not wear gloves when polishing furniture. A fifth (22%) wear protection gloves
occasionally, while only 16% always wear them when using the product. Users in Denmark are
slightly more likely to always wear protection gloves (38%) than those in other countries.
Use of protection mask
Q.69.2. How, if at all, do you protect yourself when using furniture polish ? I wear a protection mask (only
one answer possible)
N= 1239
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1239 111 90 47 181 159 189 87 102 162 111
Always 3% - 4% 11% 8% 3% 1% 3% 3% 3% 3%
Sometimes 6% 2% 6% 13% 14% 3% 4% 5% 10% 6% 2%
Never 91% 98% 90% 77% 78% 95% 95% 92% 87% 91% 95%
In line with habits related to other products, most users (91%) don’t wear a protection mask when
using furniture polish.
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69
Avoiding contact with the product
Q.69.3. How, if at all, do you protect yourself when using furniture polish ? I avoid getting the product in
contact with my eyes or mouth (only one answer possible)
N= 1239
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1239 111 90 47 181 159 189 87 102 162 111
Always 80% 82% 79% 68% 81% 81% 78% 89% 81% 75% 77%
Sometimes 6% 5% 4% 6% 10% 5% 1% 6% 9% 8% 6%
Never 14% 14% 17% 26% 9% 14% 21% 6% 10% 17% 16%
On the other hand, people are careful when it comes to avoiding getting the product in contact with
their eyes or mouth (80%).
Avoiding using the product in combination with other products
Q.69.4. How, if at all, do you protect yourself when using furniture polish ? I avoid using the product in
combination with other detergents or bleach (only one answer possible)
N= 1239
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1239 111 90 47 181 159 189 87 102 162 111
Always 65% 62% 57% 66% 75% 67% 67% 79% 65% 56% 61%
Sometimes 12% 17% 16% 13% 14% 11% 5% 7% 21% 12% 5%
Never 23% 21% 28% 21% 11% 21% 29% 14% 15% 32% 33%
When it comes to other protection measures, two-thirds (65%) of the respondents always avoid
using furniture polish in combination with other products.
Room ventilation
Q.69.5. How, if at all, do you protect yourself when using furniture polish ? I ventilate the room (only one
answer possible)
N= 1239
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1239 111 90 47 181 159 189 87 102 162 111
Always 51% 60% 56% 51% 60% 62% 67% 54% 40% 36% 23%
Sometimes 32% 36% 32% 28% 28% 26% 20% 36% 47% 32% 35%
Never 17% 4% 12% 21% 12% 12% 13% 10% 13% 32% 41%
Half of the respondents regularly ventilate the room when using furniture polish. Cross-country
differences show that consumers in Hungary (67%) and France (62%) are more inclined to ventilate
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70
when using the product. At the opposite end of the spectrum, users in the UK are less likely to
ventilate than other consumers (41% never ventilate, vs 17% across the 10 countries).
Q.70. Which of the following statements best describe how you ventilate the room when using furniture
polish ? (several answers possible)
N= 1028
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
102
8 107 79 37 159 140 164 78 89 110 65
I open the window(s) 91% 95% 91% 78% 86% 96% 97% 94% 91% 85% 83%
I open the indoor door(s) 34% 26% 53% 38% 42% 32% 36% 19% 26% 24% 48%
I open the outdoor door(s) 20% 15% 8% 46% 29% 25% 32% 10% 11% 22% 17%
I use a mechanical (rotary) fan 4% - 3% 14% 6% 8% 1% - 9% 4% 3%
I use an electric in built fan/ventilation
system 4% 1% 1% 5% 4% 9% 1% 5% 3% 5% 2%
I ventilate in another way 2% - 1% 3% 3% 4% - - 3% 5% 2%
Ventilation is mostly done by opening the window (91%). A third (34%) do it by opening the indoor
door, and 20% by opening the outdoor door.
Q.71. When do you ventilate the room ? (only one answer possible)
N= 1028
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1028 107 79 37 159 140 164 78 89 110 65
I ventilate the room during the use of the
product 26% 21% 19% 32% 30% 27% 17% 31% 16% 27% 49%
I ventilate the room during the use of the
product and for less than 15 minutes
afterwards
25% 30% 15% 8% 30% 25% 27% 24% 34% 23% 23%
I ventilate the room during the use of the
product and for at least 15 minutes
afterwards
39% 36% 49% 49% 38% 38% 49% 36% 35% 39% 22%
I do not ventilate the room during the use
of the product but I do it for less than 15
minutes afterwards
5% 7% 10% 3% 1% 4% 2% 9% 9% 3% 3%
I do not ventilate the room during the use
of the product but I do it for at least 15
minutes afterwards
5% 7% 6% 8% 2% 6% 4% - 7% 8% 3%
Ventilate during the use of the product 90% 87% 84% 89% 97% 90% 94% 91% 84% 89% 94%
Ventilate after the use of the product 10% 13% 16% 11% 3% 10% 6% 9% 16% 11% 6%
Chapter 3 Survey results
71
The majority (90%) ventilate during the use of the product, while only 10% ventilate exclusively after
having used the product.
Respecting product use instructions
Q.72. Do you read the instructions before using furniture polish for the first time ? (only one answer
possible)
N= 1239
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
123
9 111 90 47 181 159 189 87 102 162 111
Yes 77% 77% 78% 77% 74% 78% 86% 85% 79% 85% 50%
No 22% 23% 22% 23% 24% 22% 14% 13% 17% 14% 50%
The product you use does not come
with instructions 1% - - - 2% - - 2% 4% 2% 1%
Among those who use furniture polish, 77% read the instructions when using a product for the first
time. Users in the UK are less interested in reading the instructions, with habits being divided equally
between those who read these and those who don’t.
Q.73. Do you usually respect the recommended quantities ? (only one answer possible)
N= 1239
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1239 111 90 47 181 159 189 87 102 162 111
Yes 64% 65% 62% 62% 60% 68% 72% 78% 60% 65% 49%
No, I use more product than what is
recommended 15% 15% 13% 11% 19% 18% 12% 8% 15% 15% 19%
No, I use less product than what is
recommended 4% 3% 11% 11% 6% 4% 3% 3% 2% 4% 3%
There are no recommendations regarding
quantities for the product you are using 8% 7% 8% 9% 10% 6% 7% 8% 12% 7% 13%
Do not know 8% 10% 6% 9% 6% 5% 7% 2% 12% 10% 17%
Use the recommended quantities or less 68% 68% 73% 72% 66% 72% 75% 82% 62% 69% 51%
No, i use more product than what is
recommended 15% 15% 13% 11% 19% 18% 12% 8% 15% 15% 19%
There are no recommendations regarding
quantities for the product you are using 8% 7% 8% 9% 10% 6% 7% 8% 12% 7% 13%
Do not know 8% 10% 6% 9% 6% 5% 7% 2% 12% 10% 17%
Chapter 3 Survey results
72
Most consumers (68%) use the recommended quantities or less, while only 15% use more product
than recommended. Only 4% use less product than recommended.
Most frequently used brands
Q.74.a. Which of the following types of furniture polish do you use most in your household ? (up to 3
answers possible)
N= 1239
All
1239
Pronto 45%
Pledge 9%
Swiffer 7%
Pronto is the most frequently used brand of furniture polish across the 10 countries, and it is used by
45% of the respondents. Other popular brands (although far less frequently used than the first) are
Pledge (9%) and Swiffer (7%).
Most frequently used formats
Q.74.b. What format do you use most? (several answers possible)
N= 1239
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1239 111 90 47 181 159 189 87 102 162 111
Spray 69% 81% 51% 32% 82% 75% 76% 82% 81% 19% 94%
Liquid 41% 50% 56% 60% 44% 24% 41% 49% 31% 57% 12%
Wipes / Tissues 23% 24% 16% 13% 22% 50% 15% 47% 14% 5% 20%
The preferred format for furniture polish is spray (69%). The product is used as liquid by 41% of the
respondents, more commonly in Denmark (60%) ,Sweden (57%), and Germany (56%) – the only
country where liquid is more often used than spray.
Chapter 3 Survey results
73
Quantities of product used
Q.77.b. How much furniture polish do you use on each occasion ? (only one answer possible)
N= 852
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
852 90 46 15 148 120 144 71 83 31 104
1 spraying 16% 21% 15% 20% 19% 18% 7% 21% 7% 13% 18%
2 sprayings 32% 32% 35% 27% 40% 32% 23% 41% 28% 29% 28%
3 sprayings 19% 20% 30% 13% 20% 27% 12% 14% 19% 19% 15%
4 sprayings 7% 2% 7% 13% 7% 10% 6% 8% 8% 16% 6%
5 sprayings 5% 3% - 7% 5% 4% 7% 4% 6% 6% 8%
More than 5 sprayings 21% 21% 13% 20% 9% 10% 46% 11% 31% 16% 25%
1 spraying 16% 21% 15% 20% 19% 18% 7% 21% 7% 13% 18%
2 to 3 sprayings 51% 52% 65% 40% 60% 58% 35% 55% 47% 48% 43%
4 to 5 sprayings 12% 6% 7% 20% 12% 14% 13% 13% 14% 23% 13%
More than 5 sprayings 21% 21% 13% 20% 9% 10% 46% 11% 31% 16% 25%
Mean 3,19 2,98 2,80 3,20 2,66 2,82 4,20 2,68 3,72 3,23 3,32
Among those who use the product as spray, half (51%) use two to three sprayings on each occasion.
A fifth (21%) use more than 5 sprayings, while only 16% use only one spraying. People in Hungary are
more likely to use larger quantities, as 46% use more than 5 sprayings. The average across the
countries is 3,2.
Chapter 3 Survey results
74
3.7 Floor polish
Floor polish is the lowest penetration product class, as it is used by only 14% of the respondents.
The product is used slightly more often in Eastern Europe (18%) and Southern Europe (17%) than it is
compared to other regions. In Northern Europe however, only 6% of the respondents use the
product.
Use frequency
Q.78. How often do you use floor polish in your home ? (only one answer possible)
N= 587
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
587 57 48 17 69 54 60 81 100 39 62
At least once a day 7% 7% 19% 12% 14% 6% - 7% 2% 8% 6%
Several times a week 14% 9% 6% 12% 14% 24% 7% 14% 17% 3% 21%
Once a week 27% 23% 27% 6% 23% 28% 28% 25% 35% 10% 35%
Once every two weeks 15% 25% 10% 12% 16% 17% 12% 19% 17% 5% 11%
Once a month 13% 16% 13% 18% 10% 4% 23% 12% 15% 8% 13%
Less than once a month 18% 18% 21% 35% 16% 15% 27% 20% 9% 44% 10%
Do not know 6% 4% 4% 6% 6% 7% 3% 4% 5% 23% 3%
Daily 7% 7% 19% 12% 14% 6% - 7% 2% 8% 6%
Weekly 41% 32% 33% 18% 38% 52% 35% 38% 52% 13% 56%
Monthly 29% 40% 23% 29% 26% 20% 35% 31% 32% 13% 24%
Less than once a month 18% 18% 21% 35% 16% 15% 27% 20% 9% 44% 10%
Do not know 6% 4% 4% 6% 6% 7% 3% 4% 5% 23% 3%
At least once a week 48% 39% 52% 29% 52% 57% 35% 46% 54% 21% 63%
At least once a month 77% 79% 75% 59% 78% 78% 70% 77% 86% 33% 87%
Less than once a month 18% 18% 21% 35% 16% 15% 27% 20% 9% 44% 10%
Do not know 6% 4% 4% 6% 6% 7% 3% 4% 5% 23% 3%
Most consumers use floor polish weekly (41% use it once or twice a week), or once or twice a month
(29%); 18% use the product less often than once a month. Few people use the product daily (7%).
Chapter 3 Survey results
75
Time of day when the product is used
Q.79. When do you normally use floor polish ? (several answers possible)
N= 587
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
587 57 48 17 69 54 60 81 100 39 62
Mostly in the morning (between 6am
and 12am) 35% 23% 42% - 52% 33% 27% 62% 28% 13% 34%
Mostly in the afternoon (between
12am and 6pm) 27% 32% 21% 24% 33% 37% 13% 19% 35% 23% 29%
Mostly in the evening (between 6pm
and 12pm) 17% 19% 23% 41% 12% 7% 5% 14% 17% 10% 29%
Mostly in the night (between 12pm
and 6am) 2% - 6% - 3% 2% - 1% 1% 5% 3%
At any time, no specific moment 25% 33% 19% 35% 12% 24% 55% 11% 24% 51% 18%
As for the time of day, floor polish is mosty used in the morning (35%) or in the afternoon (27%).
Results show that people in France (37%) and Poland (35%) prefer using the product in the
afternoon, while those in Italy (62%) and Spain (52%) tend to use floor polish in the morning.
Room where the product is used
Q.80. In which room(s) do you normally use floor polish ? (several answers possible)
N= 587
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
587 57 48 17 69 54 60 81 100 39 62
Living/dining room 68% 58% 65% 29% 77% 78% 68% 73% 77% 72% 50%
Hallway 51% 54% 54% 29% 61% 50% 28% 58% 61% 36% 37%
Bedroom 48% 30% 44% 35% 58% 39% 57% 72% 53% 46% 27%
Kitchen 47% 68% 42% 41% 36% 52% 33% 26% 52% 56% 58%
Bathroom 31% 26% 29% 53% 29% 44% 23% 20% 35% 23% 40%
WC 22% 28% 19% 29% 17% 33% 20% 12% 26% 13% 21%
Closet/Storage room 12% 9% 13% 24% 16% 11% 8% 21% 8% 10% 8%
Other room in the house 13% 18% 25% 18% 14% 6% 12% 21% 6% 8% 3%
Floor polish is most often used in the living room (68%) and in the hallway (51%). Users in Italy are
more likely to use the product in the bedroom (72%), compared to 48% of users across the 10
countries).
Chapter 3 Survey results
76
Protection measures
Use of gloves
Q.81.1. How, if at all, do you protect yourself when using floor polish ? I wear gloves (only one answer
possible)
N= 587
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
587 57 48 17 69 54 60 81 100 39 62
Always 39% 28% 46% 71% 46% 39% 15% 44% 39% 44% 35%
Sometimes 27% 35% 17% 29% 23% 20% 33% 20% 37% 5% 31%
Never 35% 37% 38% - 30% 41% 52% 36% 24% 51% 34%
People are more inclined to use protection gloves when using floor polish than they are with other
products: 39% always wear gloves when using the product, while 27% do so occasionally. A third
(35%) do not wear gloves at all.
Use of protection mask
Q.81.2. How, if at all, do you protect yourself when using floor polish ? I wear a protection mask (only one
answer possible)
N= 587
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
587 57 48 17 69 54 60 81 100 39 62
Always 11% 5% 25% 29% 19% 11% 2% 15% 5% 15% 8%
Sometimes 18% 7% 19% 29% 32% 15% 7% 22% 16% 5% 27%
Never 71% 88% 56% 41% 49% 74% 92% 63% 79% 79% 65%
Measures such as wearing a protection mask are not as common, as 71% never resort to this
method. However, compared to practices related to other products measured among users, a slightly
larger proportion tend to employ this measure either always (11%), or occasionally (18%).
Avoiding contact with the product
Q.81.3. How, if at all, do you protect yourself when using floor polish ? I avoid getting the product in contact
with my eyes or mouth (only one answer possible)
N= 587
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
587 57 48 17 69 54 60 81 100 39 62
Always 77% 91% 75% 88% 70% 72% 77% 77% 82% 77% 63%
Sometimes 12% 5% 15% 12% 22% 9% 3% 15% 10% 8% 16%
Never 11% 4% 10% - 9% 19% 20% 9% 8% 15% 21%
Chapter 3 Survey results
77
In line with use habits for other product classes, the majority (77%) avoid getting the product in
contact with their eyes or mouth.
Avoiding using the product in combination with other products
Q.81.4. How, if at all, do you protect yourself when using floor polish ? I avoid using the product in
combination with other detergents or bleach (only one answer possible)
N= 587
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
587 57 48 17 69 54 60 81 100 39 62
Always 64% 61% 69% 71% 71% 59% 73% 74% 58% 59% 56%
Sometimes 18% 21% 13% 29% 22% 19% 2% 12% 27% 15% 21%
Never 17% 18% 19% - 7% 22% 25% 14% 15% 26% 23%
Two-thirds (64%) of the users avoid combining floor polish with other products; 17% never avoid this.
Room ventilation
Q.81.5. How, if at all, do you protect yourself when using floor polish ? I ventilate the room (only one answer
possible)
N= 587
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
587 57 48 17 69 54 60 81 100 39 62
Always 67% 70% 73% 76% 67% 70% 83% 74% 62% 54% 55%
Sometimes 23% 25% 23% 18% 26% 17% 12% 21% 25% 18% 31%
Never 10% 5% 4% 6% 7% 13% 5% 5% 13% 28% 15%
Two-thirds (67%) always ventilate when using the products, while 23% do it occasionally. Users in
Hungary are more likely to regularly ventilate (83%) than those in other countries.
In Sweden, people are more likely to never ventilate (28%) than users across the 10 countries (10%).
Q.82. Which of the following statements best describe how you ventilate the room when using floor polish?
(several answers possible)
N= 529
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
529 54 46 16 64 47 57 77 87 28 53
I open the window(s) 87% 89% 83% 87% 86% 83% 98% 86% 92% 79% 79%
I open the indoor door(s) 44% 43% 61% 31% 50% 32% 51% 35% 39% 43% 57%
I open the outdoor door(s) 28% 24% 20% 56% 38% 38% 42% 26% 17% 39% 28%
I use a mechanical (rotary) fan 8% 4% 11% 25% 14% 4% - 5% 10% 11% 9%
Chapter 3 Survey results
78
I use an electric in built fan/ventilation
system 8% 6% 7% 38% 9% 2% 4% 6% 7% 18% 8%
I ventilate in another way 3% - 4% 13% 11% 4% - 1% 1% 11% 2%
Ventilation is most often achieved by opening the window (87%), while fewer people ventilate by
opening the indoor door (44%) or the outdoor door (28%).
Q.83. When do you ventilate the room ? (only one answer possible)
N= 529
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
529 54 46 16 64 47 57 77 87 28 53
I ventilate the room during the
use of the product 27% 37% 22% 31% 30% 23% 16% 32% 23% 25% 28%
I ventilate the room during the
use of the product and for less
than 15 minutes afterwards
22% 22% 22% 13% 28% 21% 26% 18% 23% 25% 23%
I ventilate the room during the
use of the product and for at
least 15 minutes afterwards
44% 39% 41% 44% 42% 49% 46% 40% 46% 39% 49%
I do not ventilate the room
during the use of the product
but I do it for less than 15
minutes afterwards
2% - 4% 6% - 2% 5% 4% 2% 4% -
I do not ventilate the room
during the use of the product
but I do it for at least 15
minutes afterwards
5% 2% 11% 6% - 4% 7% 5% 6% 7% -
Ventilate during the use of the
product 93% 98% 85% 87% 100% 94% 88% 91% 92% 89% 100%
Ventilate after the use of the
product 7% 2% 15% 13% - 6% 12% 9% 8% 11% -
The majority of those who ventilate do it during the use of the product(93%), while 7% ventilate only
after having used the product. Consumers in Germany are slightly more inclined to behave like this
(15%).
Chapter 3 Survey results
79
Respecting product use instructions
Q.84. Do you read the instructions before using a floor polish for the first time ? (only one answer possible)
N= 587
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
587 57 48 17 69 54 60 81 100 39 62
Yes 81% 84% 77% 82% 83% 67% 90% 86% 83% 79% 76%
No 16% 14% 23% 6% 14% 28% 10% 11% 16% 18% 21%
The product you use does not come
with instructions 2% 2% - 12% 3% 6% - 2% 1% 3% 3%
As for the instructions, most users (81%) read these before using a floor polish for the first time. Only
16% do not consult the instructions before first using a floor polish. Reading product instructions is
less frequent in France (28%) than it is overall.
Q.85. Do you usually respect the recommended quantities ? (only one answer possible)
N= 587
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
587 57 48 17 69 54 60 81 100 39 62
Yes 73% 77% 75% 65% 78% 69% 80% 74% 67% 56% 77%
No, I use more product than
what is recommended 16% 16% 13% 18% 17% 19% 13% 16% 19% 15% 16%
No, I use less product than
what is recommended 5% 5% 13% 6% 3% 9% - 5% 2% 8% 5%
There are no recommendations
regarding quantities for the
product you are using
2% - - 6% 1% - 2% 2% 4% 3% -
Do not know 4% 2% - 6% - 4% 5% 2% 8% 18% 2%
Use the recommended
quantities or less 78% 82% 88% 71% 81% 78% 80% 79% 69% 64% 82%
No, i use more product than
what is recommended 16% 16% 13% 18% 17% 19% 13% 16% 19% 15% 16%
There are no recommendations
regarding quantities for the
product you are using
2% - - 6% 1% - 2% 2% 4% 3% -
Do not know 4% 2% - 6% - 4% 5% 2% 8% 18% 2%
Regarding quantities, most users use the recommended quantities or less (78%), while 16% use more
product than advised. Very few (5%) use less product than recommended.
Chapter 3 Survey results
80
Most frequently used brands
Q.86.a. Which of the following types of floor polish do you use most in your household ? (up to 3 answers
possible)
N= 587
All
587
Pronto 22%
Sidolux 14%
Emulsio 10%
The most popular brand of floor polish is Pronto (22%). Other frequently used brands are Sidolux
(14%) and Emulsio (10%).
Most frequently used formats
Q.86.b. What format do you use most? (several answers possible)
N= 587
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
587 57 48 17 69 54 60 81 100 39 62
Liquid 79% 74% 88% 65% 87% 87% 85% 83% 88% 74% 48%
Spray 34% 26% 33% 41% 45% 33% 23% 30% 29% 23% 61%
Wipes / Tissues 19% 12% 38% 18% 22% 26% 7% 20% 9% 15% 26%
Most users prefer the product in liquid format (79%), while a third (34%) prefer using the product as
spray. Floor polish in spray format is slightly more popular in the UK and Spain than it is in other
countries (61% and 45% respectively).
Chapter 3 Survey results
81
Quantities of product used
Q.89.a. How much floor polish do you use on one occasion? (only one answer possible)
N= 467
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
467 42 42 11 60 47 51 67 88 29 30
Less than 0.5 cap 6% 14% 10% 27% 7% 13% 2% 3% - 3% 3%
0.5 cap to less than 1 cap 21% 21% 19% 18% 38% 17% 22% 31% 18% 7% 7%
1 cap to less than 1.5 caps 24% 29% 24% 27% 22% 28% 27% 28% 18% 14% 27%
1.5 caps to less than 2 caps 16% 12% 10% - 13% 21% 20% 19% 17% 10% 20%
2 caps to less than 2.5 caps 11% 7% 24% 9% 5% 11% 8% 3% 17% 7% 17%
2.5 caps to less than 3 caps 7% 5% 2% 9% 5% 9% 4% 4% 9% 17% 13%
3 caps to less than 3.5 caps 4% 5% 5% - 3% - 4% 4% 7% 7% 3%
3.5 caps to less than 4 caps 2% 2% 2% 9% 2% 2% 6% 1% 1% - 7%
4 caps to less than 4.5 caps 2% - - - 2% - - - 3% 14% 3%
4.5 caps to less than 5 caps 1% 5% - - - - 2% 1% 2% - -
5 caps or more 4% - 5% - 3% - 6% 3% 7% 21% -
Less than 1 cap 27% 36% 29% 45% 45% 30% 24% 34% 18% 10% 10%
1 cap to less than 2 caps 40% 40% 33% 27% 35% 49% 47% 48% 35% 24% 47%
2 caps to less than 3 caps 18% 12% 26% 18% 10% 19% 12% 7% 26% 24% 30%
3 caps to less than 4 caps 7% 7% 7% 9% 5% 2% 10% 6% 8% 7% 10%
4 caps to less than 5 caps 3% 5% - - 2% - 2% 1% 6% 14% 3%
5 caps and more 4% - 5% - 3% - 6% 3% 7% 21% -
Mean 1,82 1,52 1,73 1,34 1,48 1,43 1,89 1,56 2,17 2,94 1,98
Among those using floor polish as liquid, most use one to less than two caps (40%), while slightly
fewer use less than one cap (27%).
Chapter 3 Survey results
82
3.8 Combustible air fresheners
Combustible air fresheners are used by 26% of the respondents overall.
Use frequency
Q.90. How often do you use combustible air fresheners (scented candles, incense, heated oils) in your home
? (only one answer possible)
N= 1004
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1004 90 56 35 153 147 128 83 85 133 94
At least once a day 19% 11% 27% 14% 24% 22% 13% 29% 16% 16% 14%
Several times a week 31% 27% 27% 23% 35% 34% 34% 25% 39% 27% 34%
Once a week 15% 16% 16% 11% 21% 13% 11% 18% 12% 14% 15%
Once every two weeks 9% 8% 7% 14% 5% 7% 14% 7% 12% 11% 7%
Once a month 9% 12% 7% 6% 8% 10% 12% 7% 7% 12% 9%
Less than once a month 12% 19% 7% 20% 5% 11% 13% 5% 9% 14% 20%
Do not know 5% 8% 9% 11% 2% 3% 3% 8% 5% 6% 1%
Daily 19% 11% 27% 14% 24% 22% 13% 29% 16% 16% 14%
Weekly 46% 42% 43% 34% 56% 47% 45% 43% 51% 41% 49%
Monthly 18% 20% 14% 20% 14% 18% 26% 14% 19% 23% 16%
Less than once a month 12% 19% 7% 20% 5% 11% 13% 5% 9% 14% 20%
Do not know 5% 8% 9% 11% 2% 3% 3% 8% 5% 6% 1%
At least once a week 65% 53% 70% 49% 80% 69% 58% 72% 67% 57% 63%
At least once a month 83% 73% 84% 69% 93% 86% 84% 87% 86% 80% 79%
Less than once a month 12% 19% 7% 20% 5% 11% 13% 5% 9% 14% 20%
Do not know 5% 8% 9% 11% 2% 3% 3% 8% 5% 6% 1%
Among those who use air fresheners which come as candles or incense (combustible air fresheners),
most people tend to use these products weekly (46% say they do so once or several times a week).
The proportion of those who use the product daily (19%) is similar to that of those who use the
product once or twice a month (18%).
Chapter 3 Survey results
83
Time of day when the product is used
Q.91. When do you normally use combustible air fresheners (scented candles, incense, heated oils) ? (several
answers possible)
N= 1004
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1004 90 56 35 153 147 128 83 85 133 94
Mostly in the evening (between 6pm
and 12pm) 53% 67% 61% 63% 41% 41% 64% 35% 47% 64% 55%
Mostly in the afternoon (between 12am
and 6pm) 16% 9% 16% 3% 23% 26% 12% 27% 19% 4% 13%
Mostly in the morning (between 6am
and 12am) 9% 4% 13% 11% 20% 8% 1% 18% 9% 1% 6%
Mostly in the night (between 12pm and
6am) 4% 1% 2% 6% 8% 3% 2% 2% 2% 3% 14%
At any time, no specific moment 28% 24% 23% 31% 27% 32% 28% 24% 31% 32% 28%
Most people use combustible air fresheners in the evenings (53%), while only 16% use them in the
afternoon and even fewer (9%) in the morning.
Results vary slightly between the 10 countries, as more people tend to use this type of product in the
afternoon in countries such as Italy (27%) and France (26%) than in other countries – although
evening use remains the most common in these countries, as elswere.
Room where the product is used
Q.92. In which room(s) do you normally use combustible air fresheners (scented candles, incense, heated
oils) ? (several answers possible)
N= 1004
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1004 90 56 35 153 147 128 83 85 133 94
Living/dining room 81% 84% 87% 83% 82% 90% 71% 70% 68% 83% 86%
Bedroom 34% 24% 23% 23% 41% 24% 55% 30% 44% 26% 45%
Bathroom 26% 14% 34% 29% 30% 15% 13% 39% 33% 32% 31%
Kitchen 24% 28% 30% 11% 17% 33% 9% 40% 8% 35% 23%
Hallway 16% 11% 16% 9% 26% 12% 5% 28% 12% 19% 18%
WC 14% 10% 21% 26% 9% 18% 2% 19% 20% 20% 7%
Closet/Storage room 5% 3% 14% 6% 8% 1% 2% 7% 6% 3% 3%
Other room in the house 8% 11% 7% 23% 10% 6% 3% 16% 6% 8% 3%
Chapter 3 Survey results
84
These types of air fresheners are mostly used in the living room (81%); a third (34%) of the
respondents use them in the bedroom. There are more people who use these products in bedrooms
in countries such as Hungary (55%), the UK (45%) and Poland (44%) than there are in other countries.
Protection measures
Avoiding contact with the product
Q.93.1. How, if at all, do you protect yourself when using combustible air fresheners (scented candles,
incense, heated oils) ? I avoid direct exposure to the air freshener i.e avoid inhaling the fragrance (only one
answer possible)
N= 1004
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1004 90 56 35 153 147 128 83 85 133 94
Always 54% 49% 45% 49% 61% 71% 63% 65% 52% 29% 51%
Sometimes 25% 29% 27% 34% 24% 19% 16% 23% 25% 29% 29%
Never 21% 22% 29% 17% 16% 10% 21% 12% 24% 42% 20%
Most users always (54%) try to protect themselves when using these products by avoiding directly
inhaling the fragrance. However, nearly half of the users are not as cautious, and only avoid this
exposure occasionally (25%) or not at all (21%).
Avoiding using the product in combination with other products
Q.93.2. How, if at all, do you protect yourself when using combustible air fresheners (scented candles,
incense, heated oils) ? I avoid using the product simultaneously with other air fresheners (only one answer
possible)
N= 1004
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1004 90 56 35 153 147 128 83 85 133 94
Always 63% 64% 66% 57% 67% 75% 71% 70% 59% 49% 52%
Sometimes 21% 16% 23% 29% 23% 17% 7% 23% 27% 26% 23%
Never 16% 20% 11% 14% 10% 8% 22% 7% 14% 26% 24%
Almost two-thirds (63%) always avoid using the products at the same time as using other air
fresheners, while 16% never take this precaution measure. There are slightly more users in Sweden
(26%) who tend to use several air fresheners simultaneously than there are in other countries.
Chapter 3 Survey results
85
Room ventilation
Q.93.3. How, if at all, do you protect yourself when using combustible air fresheners (scented candles,
incense, heated oils) ? I ventilate the room (only one answer possible)
N= 1004
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1004 90 56 35 153 147 128 83 85 133 94
Always 26% 17% 23% 46% 33% 21% 37% 41% 20% 18% 21%
Sometimes 46% 66% 54% 37% 37% 48% 42% 40% 45% 40% 47%
Never 28% 18% 23% 17% 30% 31% 21% 19% 35% 42% 32%
Most users only ventilate occasionally when using combustible air fresheners (46%), while 28% don’t
do it at all. A quarter of the respondents (26%) always ventilate. People in Denmark (46%) and those
in Italy (41%) are more likely to always ventilate when using these types of air fresheners than those
in other countries.
Q.94. Which of the following statements best describe how you ventilate the room when using combustible
air fresheners (scented candles, incense) ? (several answers possible)
N= 718
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
718 74 43 29 107 101 101 67 55 77 64
I open the window(s) 77% 86% 74% 76% 66% 76% 77% 85% 85% 70% 69%
I open the indoor door(s) 37% 34% 47% 21% 45% 37% 41% 27% 22% 30% 55%
I open the outdoor door(s) 15% 7% 14% 41% 19% 19% 12% 15% 15% 19% 8%
I use a mechanical (rotary) fan 5% - 12% 7% 4% 4% 2% 3% 9% 8% 5%
I use an electric in built fan/ventilation system 4% - 5% 14% 4% 5% 3% 1% 2% 6% 3%
I ventilate in another way 4% 1% 7% 10% 4% 4% 1% - 2% 10% 5%
Ventilation is mostly done by opening the window (77%), and less by opening the indoor door (37%).
Fewer people ventilate by opening the outdoor door (15%).
Chapter 3 Survey results
86
Q.95. When do you ventilate the room ? (only one answer possible)
N= 718
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
718 74 43 29 107 101 101 67 55 77 64
I ventilate the room during the
use of the product 28% 24% 23% 24% 25% 28% 14% 33% 16% 35% 53%
I ventilate the room during the
use of the product and for less
than 15 minutes afterwards
18% 19% 9% 17% 23% 19% 19% 25% 13% 10% 19%
I ventilate the room during the
use of the product and for at least
15 minutes afterwards
17% 14% 21% 21% 24% 18% 11% 16% 22% 13% 13%
I do not ventilate the room
during the use of the product but
I do it for less than 15 minutes
afterwards
26% 32% 21% 21% 18% 25% 39% 21% 36% 29% 13%
I do not ventilate the room
during the use of the product but
I do it for at least 15 minutes
afterwards
12% 11% 26% 17% 9% 11% 18% 4% 13% 13% 3%
Ventilate during the use of the
product 63% 57% 53% 62% 73% 64% 44% 75% 51% 58% 84%
Ventilate after the use of the
product 37% 43% 47% 38% 27% 36% 56% 25% 49% 42% 16%
Consumers are more likely to ventilate either during or during and after the use of the product (63%),
rather than ventilating only after the product has been used (37%). However, the proportion of
people who ventilate after having used the product is higher for users of combustible air fresheners
than it is among users many of the product classes measured.
Most frequently used brands
Q.97.a. Which of the following combustible air fresheners do you use most in your household ? (up to 3
answers possible)
N= 1004
All
1004
Brise 34%
Air Wick 29%
Glade 20%
Chapter 3 Survey results
87
When looking at the overall results, the most frequently used brands across the 10 countries are
Brise (34%), Air Wick (29%) and Glade (20%).
Most frequently used formats
Q.97.b. What format do you use most? (several answers possible)
N= 1004
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1004 90 56 35 153 147 128 83 85 133 94
Scented candles 87% 92% 79% 80% 87% 83% 85% 89% 89% 88% 91%
Heated oils 29% 28% 39% 31% 22% 31% 20% 37% 35% 33% 22%
Incense sticks 18% 4% 20% 40% 27% 17% 21% 25% 12% 17% 13%
Scented candles are by far the most popular format for combustible air fresheners (87%). Fewer
people use heated oils (29%), or incense sticks (18%).
Respecting product use instructions
Q.99.a. Do you read the instructions before using a combustible air freshener for the first time ? (only one
answer possible)
N= 1004
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1004 90 56 35 153 147 128 83 85 133 94
Yes 60% 64% 59% 46% 60% 59% 59% 73% 65% 50% 54%
No 31% 31% 29% 26% 30% 35% 27% 22% 29% 36% 41%
The product you use does not come with
instructions 9% 4% 13% 29% 10% 6% 13% 5% 6% 14% 4%
Twice as many read the instructions when using a product for the first time than those who don’t
read them (60% vs 31%).
Among users in the UK, there are more people who tend not to read the instructions (41%),
compared to other countries.
Chapter 3 Survey results
88
Q.99.b. Do you respect the recommended quantities ? (only one answer possible)
N= 1004
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1004 90 56 35 153 147 128 83 85 133 94
Yes 59% 57% 64% 49% 59% 65% 58% 75% 64% 43% 57%
No, I use more product than
what is recommended 9% 9% 7% 14% 12% 10% 7% 11% 11% 8% 4%
No, I use less product than what
is recommended 2% 2% - - 1% 1% 2% 4% 2% 3% 1%
There are no recommendations
regarding quantities for the
product you are using
18% 12% 21% 17% 22% 16% 22% 8% 13% 23% 28%
Do not know 11% 20% 7% 20% 5% 10% 11% 2% 11% 23% 10%
Use the recommended quantities
or less 61% 59% 64% 49% 61% 65% 60% 78% 66% 46% 59%
No, i use more product than
what is recommended 9% 9% 7% 14% 12% 10% 7% 11% 11% 8% 4%
There are no recommendations
regarding quantities for the
product you are using
18% 12% 21% 17% 22% 16% 22% 8% 13% 23% 28%
Do not know 11% 20% 7% 20% 5% 10% 11% 2% 11% 23% 10%
In line with previously analysed use patterns, there are more people who use the recommended
quantities of product or less (61%) than who use more product than recommended (9%).
However, an important proportion (18%) declares that there are no instructions for the product they
use. Among the UK users, 28% state that the product they use does not come with instructions.
Chapter 3 Survey results
89
Quantities of product used
Q.101.a. How much combustible air freshener do you use on one occasion? How long do you let the candle
burn for ? (only one answer possible)
N= 866
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
866 83 38 28 133 122 109 74 76 117 86
Less than 30 min 23% 16% 21% 21% 29% 26% 17% 38% 25% 11% 24%
30 min - 1 hour 30% 30% 32% 18% 41% 36% 39% 31% 30% 22% 16%
1 hour - 2 hours 23% 27% 21% 21% 14% 21% 21% 16% 28% 26% 34%
2 hours - 3 hours 12% 17% 16% 18% 9% 11% 9% 7% 9% 18% 14%
3 hours - 4 hours 5% 5% 5% 7% 2% 2% 6% 1% 5% 11% 8%
4 hours - 5 hours 3% 5% 5% 7% 2% 1% 3% 3% 1% 6% 1%
More than 5 hours 3% 1% - 7% 2% 2% 5% 4% 1% 6% 2%
Less than 2 hours 76% 72% 74% 61% 84% 84% 77% 85% 83% 59% 74%
2 hours to less than 4 hours 18% 22% 21% 25% 11% 13% 16% 8% 14% 29% 22%
4 hours or more 6% 6% 5% 14% 5% 3% 7% 7% 3% 12% 3%
Mean 85,58 92,17 85,26 115,18 67,33 70,82 88,76 67,91 75,00 120,90 90,17
Among those who use candles, most (30%) let them leave them burning between 30 minutes and
one hour.
Most people leave candles lit for less than two hours (76%), while fewer respondents use these for
two to four hours (18%), or for four hours or longer (6%). The average is 85,6 minutes, ranging from
67 minutes in Spain and Italy to just over 120 minutes in Sweden.
Chapter 3 Survey results
90
Q.101.b. How much combustible air freshener do you use on one occasion? How many scented candles do
you light in one room simultaneously ? (only one answer possible)
N= 866
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
866 83 38 28 133 122 109 74 76 117 86
1 scented candle 61% 81% 53% 32% 64% 63% 80% 61% 45% 44% 63%
2 scented candles 24% 12% 24% 29% 24% 25% 11% 27% 33% 28% 28%
3-4 scented candles 12% 6% 21% 25% 11% 11% 8% 9% 14% 21% 8%
5-6 scented candles 2% - 3% 7% 1% 1% 1% 1% 5% 3% 1%
More than 6 scented candles 1% 1% - 7% 1% - - 1% 3% 4% -
1 scented candle 61% 81% 53% 32% 64% 63% 80% 61% 45% 44% 63%
2 scented candles or more 39% 19% 47% 68% 36% 37% 20% 39% 55% 56% 37%
Mean 1,70 1,34 1,88 2,63 1,58 1,57 1,36 1,64 2,07 2,15 1,53
Among those who use candles, 61% light one candle on each occasion, while 39% have two or more
candles burning at the same time.
Users in Sweden and Poland are more likely to have more than one candle lit simultaneously in the
same room (56% and 51% respectively) then those in other countries.
Chapter 3 Survey results
91
3.9 Air freshening sprays
Overall, 48% of the respondents have used air freshening sprays during the 6 months before the
survey took place.
Use frequency
Q.102. How often do you use air freshening sprays in your home ? (only one answer possible)
N= 1364
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1364 120 108 101 179 155 202 105 102 182 110
At least once a day 39% 43% 25% 25% 37% 38% 69% 34% 50% 26% 39%
Several times a week 33% 37% 46% 20% 34% 35% 20% 35% 32% 30% 35%
Once a week 10% 6% 9% 21% 12% 8% 3% 12% 9% 13% 9%
Once every two weeks 5% 7% 3% 11% 7% 6% 1% 8% 1% 7% 4%
Once a month 3% 1% 3% 8% 1% 4% % 2% 3% 5% 5%
Less than once a month 6% 5% 10% 10% 6% 5% 2% 6% - 12% 6%
Do not know 4% 3% 4% 6% 3% 4% 4% 3% 5% 8% 1%
Daily 39% 43% 25% 25% 37% 38% 69% 34% 50% 26% 39%
Weekly 42% 43% 56% 41% 46% 43% 23% 48% 41% 42% 45%
Monthly 8% 8% 6% 19% 8% 10% 2% 10% 4% 12% 9%
Less than once a month 6% 5% 10% 10% 6% 5% 2% 6% - 12% 6%
Do not know 4% 3% 4% 6% 3% 4% 4% 3% 5% 8% 1%
At least once a week 81% 85% 81% 65% 83% 81% 92% 82% 91% 69% 84%
At least once a month 90% 93% 86% 84% 91% 91% 94% 91% 95% 81% 93%
Less than once a month 6% 5% 10% 10% 6% 5% 2% 6% - 12% 6%
Do not know 4% 3% 4% 6% 3% 4% 4% 3% 5% 8% 1%
Air freshening sprays are used daily by 39% of consumers across the 10 countries. A further 42% use
them at least once a week.
In Hungary, these products are used more frequently than in other countries, with over two-thirds
(69%) of the respondents using these at least once a day.
Chapter 3 Survey results
92
Time of day when the product is used
Q.103. When do you normally use air freshening sprays ? (several answers possible)
N= 1364
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1364 120 108 101 179 155 202 105 102 182 110
Mostly in the morning (between 6am
and 12am) 17% 8% 19% 8% 26% 23% 20% 25% 15% 8% 23%
Mostly in the afternoon (between
12am and 6pm) 16% 13% 23% 15% 23% 16% 7% 21% 18% 14% 15%
Mostly in the evening (between 6pm
and 12pm) 14% 8% 19% 17% 18% 12% 5% 18% 18% 15% 15%
Mostly in the night (between 12pm
and 6am) 1% - 1% 3% 2% 1% - 2% 1% 2% 3%
At any time, no specific moment 60% 77% 52% 67% 43% 57% 71% 47% 62% 68% 55%
Most users (60%) don’t have a preferred time of the day for using the product.
Room where the product is used
Q.104. In which room(s) do you normally use air freshening sprays ? (several answers possible)
N= 1364
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1364 120 108 101 179 155 202 105 102 182 110
WC 65% 88% 59% 58% 44% 78% 90% 40% 75% 70% 44%
Bathroom 56% 33% 56% 62% 75% 37% 28% 74% 67% 66% 68%
Living/dining room 42% 38% 47% 28% 62% 50% 22% 52% 43% 18% 70%
Kitchen 28% 26% 28% 24% 32% 39% 12% 45% 17% 21% 41%
Bedroom 26% 16% 21% 24% 50% 23% 9% 36% 24% 10% 49%
Hallway 25% 33% 23% 19% 44% 21% 6% 30% 20% 18% 44%
Closet/Storage room 9% 8% 4% 8% 23% 12% 2% 10% - 9% 12%
Other room in the house 6% 5% 6% 11% 9% 7% 1% 14% 1% 4% 3%
The product is most frequently used in WC (65%) and bathrooms (56%). Fewer people use it in the
living room (42%). Air freshening sprays are slightly less frequently used in kitchens (28%), bedrooms
(26%) and hallways (25%).
In Spain and in the UK, there are more people who use the product in their bedrooms (50% and 49%
respectively) than in other countries.
Chapter 3 Survey results
93
Protection measures
Avoiding contact with the product
Q.105.1. How, if at all, do you protect yourself when using air freshening sprays ? I avoid getting the product
in contact with my eyes or mouth (only one answer possible)
N= 1364
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1364 120 108 101 179 155 202 105 102 182 110
Always 87% 93% 93% 85% 83% 88% 75% 89% 91% 84% 86%
Sometimes 5% 3% 3% 6% 11% 8% 2% 2% 5% 4% 5%
Never 9% 4% 5% 9% 7% 3% 22% 10% 4% 12% 8%
Most people (87%) are careful to avoid getting their product in contact with their eyes or mouth.
Avoiding using the product in combination with other products
Q.105.2. How, if at all, do you protect yourself when using air freshening sprays ? I avoid using the product
simultaneously with other air fresheners (only one answer possible)
N= 1364
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1364 120 108 101 179 155 202 105 102 182 110
Always 64% 63% 69% 61% 55% 73% 65% 70% 70% 50% 65%
Sometimes 15% 17% 11% 19% 30% 10% 6% 12% 15% 17% 15%
Never 21% 20% 20% 20% 15% 17% 28% 18% 16% 33% 20%
Nearly two-thirds (64%) always avoid using air freshening sprays in combination with other air
fresheners. However, a fifth of the consumers never avoid these combinations. Users in France are
more careful about not using the product in combination with others (73%) than those in other
countries.
Room ventilation
Q.105.3. How, if at all, do you protect yourself when using air freshening sprays ? I ventilate the room (only
one answer possible)
N= 1364
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1364 120 108 101 179 155 202 105 102 182 110
Always 31% 25% 40% 32% 34% 37% 35% 40% 25% 20% 28%
Sometimes 37% 50% 34% 41% 35% 35% 35% 32% 38% 40% 34%
Never 31% 25% 26% 28% 31% 28% 30% 28% 36% 40% 38%
Chapter 3 Survey results
94
Ventilation patterns vary. Almost two in five (37%) sometimes ventilate the room. The remainer are
evenly divided between those who always do and those who never do (both 31%).
Q.106. Which of the following statements best describe how you ventilate the room when using air
fresheners ? (several answers possible)
N= 938
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
938 90 80 73 123 112 142 76 65 109 68
I open the window(s) 71% 67% 81% 62% 71% 74% 70% 92% 72% 53% 71%
I open the indoor door(s) 36% 33% 35% 32% 41% 43% 34% 30% 32% 36% 46%
I open the outdoor door(s) 13% 11% 3% 22% 17% 17% 13% 9% 17% 8% 13%
I use an electric in built fan/ventilation
system 6% 8% 6% 4% 1% 4% 6% 4% 6% 16% 3%
I use a mechanical (rotary) fan 4% 1% 3% 4% 7% 2% 2% 5% 11% 4% 3%
I ventilate in another way 5% 6% 1% 12% 1% 4% 5% 1% 3% 13% 1%
Among those who do ventilate, most (71%) do it by opening the window, while just over a third
(36%) do it by opening the indoor door. Very few respondents use other means of ventilation, such
as opening the outdoor door (13%) or using an electric (6%) or mechanical (4%) fan.
Q.107. When do you ventilate the room ? (only one answer possible)
N= 938
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
938 90 80 73 123 112 142 76 65 109 68
I ventilate the room during the
use of the product 26% 31% 21% 18% 24% 27% 20% 29% 17% 28% 41%
I ventilate the room during the
use of the product and for less
than 15 minutes afterwards
22% 22% 20% 15% 29% 24% 27% 17% 20% 24% 21%
I ventilate the room during the
use of the product and for at
least 15 minutes afterwards
23% 12% 21% 27% 27% 25% 22% 32% 25% 21% 26%
I do not ventilate the room
during the use of the product
but I do it for less than 15
minutes afterwards
18% 26% 25% 18% 13% 16% 21% 17% 18% 18% 7%
I do not ventilate the room
during the use of the product
but I do it for at least 15
minutes afterwards
10% 9% 13% 22% 7% 8% 10% 5% 20% 8% 4%
Ventilate during the use of the 71% 66% 63% 60% 80% 76% 69% 78% 62% 73% 88%
Chapter 3 Survey results
95
product
Ventilate after the use of the
product 29% 34% 38% 40% 20% 24% 31% 22% 38% 27% 12%
Most users (71%) ventilate during the use of the product. However, in line with the ventilation
patterns related to combustible air fresheners, a large minority of the users do it only after using the
product.
Most frequently used brands
Q.108.a. Which of the following air freshening sprays do you use most in your household ? (up to 3 answers
possible)
N= 1364
All
1364
Air Wick 44%
Brise 29%
Glade 17%
When looking at the overall results, the top brand of spray air fresheners is Air Wick (44%). Other
frequently used brands are Brise (29%) and Glade (17%).
Most frequently used formats
Q.108.b. What format do you use most? (several answers possible)
N= 1364
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1364 120 108 101 179 155 202 105 102 182 110
Spray (manual) 73% 10% 79% 78% 74% 83% 86% 75% 80% 84% 81%
Spray (automatic) 47% 98% 35% 40% 54% 35% 30% 50% 48% 29% 52%
‘Manual’ sprays are the most frequently used formats for spray air fresheners (73%). ‘Automatic’
sprays (air fresheners than spray at regular intervals) are slightly less common (47%).
Chapter 3 Survey results
96
Respecting product use instructions
Q.109. Do you read the instructions before using an air freshening spray for the first time ? (only one
answer possible)
N= 1364
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1364 120 108 101 179 155 202 105 102 182 110
Yes 53% 51% 46% 54% 56% 44% 54% 64% 61% 48% 54%
No 45% 48% 53% 42% 42% 54% 45% 33% 36% 49% 46%
The product you use does not come
with instructions 2% 2% 1% 4% 2% 2% % 3% 3% 3% -
Half of the people (53%) read the instructions before using an air freshening spray for the first time,
while 45% don’t. Users in Italy are more inclined to read these (64%) than the overall survey
population.
Q.110. Do you usually respect the recommended quantities ? (only one answer possible)
N= 1364
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1364 120 108 101 179 155 202 105 102 182 110
Yes 53% 55% 52% 59% 51% 47% 59% 57% 54% 49% 51%
No, I use more product than
what is recommended 16% 14% 15% 12% 23% 19% 7% 12% 19% 16% 19%
No, I use less product than
what is recommended 4% 3% 6% 3% 2% 5% 4% 6% 5% 4% 2%
There are no recommendations
regarding quantities for the
product you are using
10% 8% 8% 8% 12% 12% 10% 8% 7% 8% 19%
Do not know 17% 20% 19% 18% 11% 17% 18% 17% 16% 23% 9%
Use the recommended
quantities or less 57% 58% 58% 62% 54% 52% 64% 63% 59% 53% 53%
No, i use more product than
what is recommended 16% 14% 15% 12% 23% 19% 7% 12% 19% 16% 19%
There are no recommendations
regarding quantities for the
product you are using
10% 8% 8% 8% 12% 12% 10% 8% 7% 8% 19%
Do not know 17% 20% 19% 18% 11% 17% 18% 17% 16% 23% 9%
Chapter 3 Survey results
97
Just over half (57%) of the respondents use the recommended quantities or less; 16% use more
product than what is recommended, while 4% use less product than the indicated quantities.
One user in ten declares there are no instructions for the air freshening spray they are using.
Quantities of product used
Q.111.a. How much air freshening spray do you use on one occasion? (only one answer possible)
N= 1011
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1011 12 85 79 132 128 173 79 82 152 89
1-2 seconds 41% 42% 42% 51% 31% 34% 64% 27% 45% 50% 21%
3-4 seconds 42% 50% 38% 37% 45% 44% 32% 51% 48% 38% 53%
5-6 seconds 11% - 13% 8% 18% 19% 3% 13% 4% 7% 17%
7-8 seconds 3% - 1% 1% 5% - 1% 6% - 3% 7%
9-10 seconds 1% 8% 5% 4% - 2% - 1% 1% 1% -
More than 10 seconds 2% - 1% - 2% 2% 1% 3% 2% 1% 2%
1-2 seconds 41% 42% 42% 51% 31% 34% 64% 27% 45% 50% 21%
3-6 seconds 53% 50% 51% 44% 63% 63% 35% 63% 51% 45% 70%
7-10 seconds 4% 8% 6% 5% 5% 2% 1% 8% 1% 4% 7%
More than 10 seconds 2% - 1% - 2% 2% 1% 3% 2% 1% 2%
Mean 3,20 3,17 3,34 2,92 3,55 3,48 2,40 3,75 2,94 2,87 3,86
Among those who use ‘manual’ sprays, around half spray between three to six seconds (53%), while
41% spray for one to two seconds. Few respondents spray for seven to ten seconds (4%) or for longer
than 10 seconds (2%).
The average ‘spraying’ time is estimated at 3.2 seconds.
Chapter 3 Survey results
98
3.10 Electric air fresheners
Electric air fresheners qualify among the low penetration product classes, as they are used by only
22% of the consumers.
Q.112. How often do you use electric air fresheners in your home ? (only one answer possible)
N= 952
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
952 82 55 27 216 98 109 111 86 39 129
At least once a day 40% 27% 36% 41% 52% 33% 42% 34% 40% 23% 47%
Several times a week 26% 30% 20% 7% 25% 19% 22% 34% 35% 13% 26%
Once a week 10% 9% 18% 15% 10% 21% 5% 14% 3% 5% 7%
Once every two weeks 3% 6% 2% - 1% 3% 1% 5% 1% 10% 3%
Once a month 7% 9% 11% 7% 3% 7% 6% 6% 8% 8% 7%
Less than once a month 8% 11% 7% 15% 4% 9% 13% 3% 6% 15% 9%
Do not know 7% 9% 5% 15% 5% 7% 12% 5% 7% 26% 2%
Daily 40% 27% 36% 41% 52% 33% 42% 34% 40% 23% 47%
Weekly 36% 39% 38% 22% 34% 41% 27% 48% 38% 18% 33%
Monthly 10% 15% 13% 7% 4% 10% 6% 11% 9% 18% 10%
Less than once a month 8% 11% 7% 15% 4% 9% 13% 3% 6% 15% 9%
Do not know 7% 9% 5% 15% 5% 7% 12% 5% 7% 26% 2%
At least once a week 76% 66% 75% 63% 87% 73% 69% 82% 78% 41% 79%
At least once a month 85% 80% 87% 70% 91% 84% 75% 93% 87% 59% 89%
Less than once a month 8% 11% 7% 15% 4% 9% 13% 3% 6% 15% 9%
Do not know 7% 9% 5% 15% 5% 7% 12% 5% 7% 26% 2%
Most electric air fresheners users employ the product daily (40%), with another third (36%) using it
once a week or more
Chapter 3 Survey results
99
Time of day when the product is used
Q.113. When do you normally use electric air fresheners ? (several answers possible)
N= 952
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
952 82 55 27 216 98 109 111 86 39 129
Mostly in the evening (between 6pm and
12pm)
15
%
15
%
15
%
19
%
13
%
24
%
13
%
21
% 8%
13
%
16
%
Mostly in the afternoon (between 12am and
6pm)
15
%
22
%
16
%
11
%
11
%
13
%
11
%
21
%
13
% 8%
16
%
Mostly in the morning (between 6am and
12am)
12
% 5%
16
%
19
%
15
%
11
% 5%
19
% 9%
15
% 7%
Mostly in the night (between 12pm and 6am) 4% 1% 5% 7% 8% 3% 3% 5% 2% 8% 3%
At any time, no specific moment 30
%
32
%
24
%
37
%
29
%
36
%
38
%
16
%
38
%
41
%
29
%
The air freshener is permanently plugged in 31
%
29
%
31
%
19
%
33
%
21
%
34
%
28
%
33
%
26
%
40
%
For almost one-third of the users (31%) the air fresheners stays permanently plugged in. There are
more people among the UK users who tend to leave the air freshener permanently plugged in (40%)
then among users in the other countries. Usage patterns vary among those who don’t leave the
device plugged in permanently, with fairly equal numbers using it in the evening (15%), the afternoon
(15%) and the morning (12%).
Room where the product is used
Q.114. In which room(s) do you normally use electric air fresheners ? (several answers possible)
N= 952
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
952 82 55 27 216 98 109 111 86 39 129
Living/dining room 60% 65% 53% 67% 61% 65% 66% 53% 55% 41% 68%
Bathroom 32% 21% 47% 52% 42% 22% 9% 53% 37% 33% 16%
Bedroom 30% 21% 18% 41% 38% 27% 45% 23% 40% 13% 29%
Hallway 29% 33% 20% 30% 34% 20% 6% 23% 23% 21% 52%
Kitchen 24% 22% 18% 37% 16% 31% 17% 38% 13% 21% 30%
WC 23% 17% 22% 41% 26% 29% 10% 31% 35% 31% 10%
Closet/Storage room 9% 6% 13% 26% 15% 10% 2% 15% 1% 18% 3%
Other room in the house 7% 9% 7% 19% 7% 12% 3% 10% 1% 10% 5%
Chapter 3 Survey results
100
Electric air fresheners are mostly used in the living room (60%). Half as many people tend to use
electric air fresheners in their bathrooms (32%) or in the bedroom (30%). Users in Italy are more
inclined to use these in their bathrooms (53%).
Protection measures
Room ventilation
Q.115.2. How, if at all, do you protect yourself when using electric air fresheners ? I ventilate the room (only
one answer possible)
N= 952
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
952 82 55 27 216 98 109 111 86 39 129
Always 32% 29% 36% 63% 31% 42% 33% 40% 27% 31% 20%
Sometimes 39% 48% 42% 19% 32% 35% 37% 37% 44% 33% 44%
Never 29% 23% 22% 19% 37% 23% 30% 23% 29% 36% 36%
A third of the users (32%) always ventilate the room when having the air freshener plugged in.
Slightly more people (39%) tend to ventilate occasionally. An important proportion (29%) don’t
ventilate at all when having the device plugged in.
Q.116.a. Which of the following statements best describe how you ventilate the room when using electric air
fresheners ? (several answers possible)
N= 669
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
669 63 43 22 136 75 76 85 61 25 83
I open the window(s) 76
%
71
%
81
%
82
%
74
%
71
%
86
%
79
%
80
%
72
%
67
%
I open the indoor door(s) 33
%
40
%
23
%
41
%
33
%
28
%
28
%
28
%
31
%
28
%
42
%
I open the outdoor door(s) 16
%
14
%
14
%
55
%
16
%
16
% 9%
19
%
10
%
24
%
12
%
I use an electric in built fan/ventilation
system 5% 5% -
27
% 4% 3% 1% 4% 8%
16
% 5%
I use a mechanical (rotary) fan 5% - 2% 23
% 5% 5% 1% 6% 3%
12
% 4%
I ventilate in another way 3% 3% 5% 14
% 2% 3% 3% 1% 2%
16
% 2%
Users ventilate mostly by opening the windows (79%), and less often by opening the indoor door
(33%).
Chapter 3 Survey results
101
Q.116.b. When do you ventilate the room ? (only one answer possible)
N= 669
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
669 63 43 22 136 75 76 85 61 25 83
I ventilate the room during the
use of the product 31% 32% 40% 18% 29% 29% 29% 26% 26% 20% 41%
I ventilate the room during the
use of the product and for less
than 15 minutes afterwards
20% 16% 16% 14% 23% 19% 14% 25% 21% 28% 17%
I ventilate the room during the
use of the product and for at
least 15 minutes afterwards
21% 14% 19% 55% 24% 27% 12% 21% 13% 24% 23%
I do not ventilate the room
during the use of the product
but I do it for less than 15
minutes afterwards
18% 25% 12% - 12% 19% 28% 18% 30% 8% 11%
I do not ventilate the room
during the use of the product
but I do it for at least 15
minutes afterwards
12% 13% 14% 14% 13% 7% 17% 11% 10% 20% 8%
Ventilate during the use of the
product 71% 62% 74% 86% 76% 75% 55% 72% 61% 72% 81%
Ventilate after the use of the
product 29% 38% 26% 14% 24% 25% 45% 28% 39% 28% 19%
Users who ventilate do it during the use of the product (71%), rather than after the product has been
used (29%).
Most frequently used brands
Q.117.a. Which of the following electrical air fresheners do you use most in your household ? (up to 3
answers possible)
N= 952
All
952
Air Wick 55%
Ambi Pur 40%
Brise 25%
The most frequently used brand of electric air fresheners across the 10 countries is Air Wick (55%).
Other popular brands are Ambi Pur (40%), and Brise (25%).
Chapter 3 Survey results
102
Respecting product use instructions
Q.118. Do you read the instructions before using an electric air freshener for the first time ? (only one
answer possible)
N= 952
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
952 82 55 27 216 98 109 111 86 39 129
Yes 72
%
65
%
73
%
67
%
74
%
69
%
72
%
78
%
79
%
74
%
66
%
No 26
%
35
%
24
%
30
%
25
%
26
%
28
%
17
%
21
%
23
%
34
%
The product you use does not come with
instructions 2% - 4% 4% 1% 5% 1% 5% - 3% -
The majority (72%) read the instructions when using an electric air freshener for the first time, while
quarter (26%) tend not to read these.
Q.119. Do you usually respect the recommended quantities ? (only one answer possible)
N= 952
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
952 82 55 27 216 98 109 111 86 39 129
Yes 68% 72% 65% 56% 69% 68% 69% 73% 60% 62% 67%
No, I use more product than
what is recommended 7% 11% 5% 15% 8% 8% - 5% 10% 5% 7%
No, I use less product than
what is recommended 4% 4% 7% 7% 2% 1% 6% 7% 5% 13% 1%
There are no recommendations
regarding quantities for the
product you are using
12% 4% 15% 11% 15% 13% 15% 5% 14% 8% 16%
Do not know 9% 10% 7% 11% 6% 9% 11% 9% 10% 13% 9%
Use the recommended
quantities or less 72% 76% 73% 63% 71% 69% 74% 80% 65% 74% 68%
No, i use more product than
what is recommended 7% 11% 5% 15% 8% 8% - 5% 10% 5% 7%
There are no recommendations
regarding quantities for the
product you are using
12% 4% 15% 11% 15% 13% 15% 5% 14% 8% 16%
Do not know 9% 10% 7% 11% 6% 9% 11% 9% 10% 13% 9%
Chapter 3 Survey results
103
Two-thirds (68%) respect the recommended quantities, while very few use more (7%) or less (4%)
product than is recommended.
An small but important proportion however (12%) declare there are no recommendations regarding
quantities for the air freshener they are using.
Quantities of product used
Q.120. How much electric air freshener do you use on one occasion? How long do you leave the air freshener
plugged in for ? (only one answer possible)
N= 952
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
952 82 55 27 216 98 109 111 86 39 129
Less than 1 hour 21
%
24
%
20
%
30
%
13
%
21
%
22
%
27
%
21
%
23
%
18
%
Between 1 and 6 hours 28
%
27
%
31
%
15
%
24
%
39
%
34
%
27
%
26
%
31
%
27
%
Between 6 and 12 hours 9% 12
%
15
%
15
% 9% 7% 4% 8% 8% 5% 9%
Between 13 and 24 hours 2% 4% - 7% 1% 1% - 2% 5% 3% 3%
Between 25 and 48 hours 1% - 2% - 2% 3% 2% 2% 1% 3% 1%
Between 2 and 3 days 1% - - - % - 1% - - 3% 3%
More than 3 days 1% 1% 2% 7% 1% 1% 1% 1% 1% 3% 1%
The air freshener is permanently plugged
in
37
%
32
%
31
%
26
%
49
%
28
%
37
%
33
%
38
%
31
%
39
%
Less than 1 hour 21
%
24
%
20
%
30
%
13
%
21
%
22
%
27
%
21
%
23
%
18
%
Between 1 and 12 hours 37
%
39
%
45
%
30
%
33
%
46
%
38
%
35
%
34
%
36
%
36
%
Between 13 and 24 hours 2% 4% - 7% 1% 1% - 2% 5% 3% 3%
25 hours or more 40
%
33
%
35
%
33
%
52
%
32
%
40
%
36
%
41
%
38
%
43
%
Many people (37%) leave the air freshener permanently plugged in; 28% leave it plugged in between
one and six hours more than those who use it for under an hour (21%).
We can therefore assume that most people either leave the device permanently plugged in, or only
use it on certain occasions, for no longer than half a day.
Chapter 3 Survey results
104
3.11 Passive air fresheners
Air fresheners which come as gels, liquids or wipes (passive air fresheners) are used by only 20% of
the respondents across the 10 countries.
Use frequency
Q.121. How often do you use passive air fresheners (gel, liquid, wipes/tissues) in your home ? (only one
answer possible)
N= 822
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
822 77 60 44 127 95 101 64 56 106 92
At least once a day 30% 25% 37% 23% 33% 31% 38% 20% 39% 25% 32%
Several times a week 21% 30% 13% 16% 21% 24% 18% 22% 29% 20% 17%
Once a week 13% 12% 10% 7% 15% 20% 6% 22% 14% 9% 13%
Once every two weeks 8% 8% 3% 11% 8% 4% 3% 14% 9% 3% 13%
Once a month 7% 8% 10% 11% 10% 3% 7% 3% - 9% 8%
Less than once a month 11% 6% 15% 23% 8% 8% 17% 13% 2% 18% 9%
Do not know 10% 12% 12% 9% 5% 9% 12% 6% 7% 15% 9%
Daily 30% 25% 37% 23% 33% 31% 38% 20% 39% 25% 32%
Weekly 34% 42% 23% 23% 36% 44% 24% 44% 43% 29% 30%
Monthly 15% 16% 13% 23% 18% 7% 10% 17% 9% 12% 21%
Less than once a month 11% 6% 15% 23% 8% 8% 17% 13% 2% 18% 9%
Do not know 10% 12% 12% 9% 5% 9% 12% 6% 7% 15% 9%
At least once a week 65% 66% 60% 45% 69% 75% 61% 64% 82% 55% 62%
At least once a month 79% 82% 73% 68% 87% 82% 71% 81% 91% 67% 83%
Less than once a month 11% 6% 15% 23% 8% 8% 17% 13% 2% 18% 9%
Do not know 10% 12% 12% 9% 5% 9% 12% 6% 7% 15% 9%
Most of them use these products either on a weekly (34% - once or several times a week) or on a
daily (30%) basis.
Chapter 3 Survey results
105
Time of day when the product is used
Q.122. When do you normally use passive air fresheners (gel, liquid, wipes/tissues) ? (several answers
possible)
N= 822
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
822 77 60 44 127 95 101 64 56 106 92
Mostly in the afternoon (between 12am and
6pm)
15
%
13
%
12
% 5%
19
%
22
%
13
%
28
%
16
% 4%
18
%
Mostly in the evening (between 6pm and
12pm)
13
%
16
% 5%
23
%
10
%
16
% 6%
16
%
20
% 8%
12
%
Mostly in the morning (between 6am and
12am)
12
% 6%
13
%
14
%
18
%
19
% 3%
13
%
14
% 8%
13
%
Mostly in the night (between 12pm and 6am) 3% - 2% 5% 4% 4% 3% 3% 2% 1% 4%
At any time, no specific moment 64
%
69
%
73
%
66
%
56
%
52
%
80
%
48
%
52
%
79
%
64
%
These products are generally used at any time (no specific moment of the day - 64%).
Room where the product is used
Q.123. In which room(s) do you normally use passive air fresheners (gel, liquid, wipes/tissues) ? (several
answers possible)
N= 822
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
822 77 60 44 127 95 101 64 56 106 92
Bathroom 50% 42% 52% 48% 50% 40% 41% 63% 70% 51% 52%
WC 47% 71% 35% 52% 28% 61% 61% 17% 50% 54% 39%
Living/dining room 40% 48% 42% 23% 41% 48% 31% 45% 41% 20% 51%
Kitchen 26% 23% 15% 30% 19% 41% 17% 41% 38% 14% 27%
Bedroom 26% 10% 20% 11% 38% 22% 28% 31% 30% 12% 43%
Hallway 17% 25% 15% 11% 17% 14% 11% 16% 25% 13% 23%
Closet/Storage room 14% 13% 13% 14% 20% 19% 14% 16% 13% 10% 9%
Other room in the house 7% 8% 7% 11% 7% 1% 3% 13% 4% 11% 4%
Passive air fresheners are mostly used in bathrooms (50%), the WC (47%) and living/dining rooms
(40%), and less in kitchens (26%) and in bedrooms (26%). In Poland, users are more inclined to use
the products in bathrooms (70%).
Chapter 3 Survey results
106
Users in the UK are more likely than others to use the product in their bedroom (43%).
Protection measures
Avoiding contact with the product
Q.124.1. How, if at all, do you protect yourself when using passive air fresheners (gel, liquid, wipes/tissues) ?
I avoid getting the product in contact with my eyes or mouth (several answers possible)
N= 822
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
822 77 60 44 127 95 101 64 56 106 92
Always 82% 81% 85% 86% 81% 84% 83% 81% 86% 75% 80%
Sometimes 9% 6% 7% 9% 12% 4% 1% 17% 7% 9% 11%
Never 10% 13% 8% 5% 7% 12% 16% 2% 7% 16% 9%
Most users (82%) always avoid getting the products in their eyes or mouth.
Avoiding using the product in combination with other products
Q.124.2. How, if at all, do you protect yourself when using passive air fresheners (gel, liquid, wipes/tissues) ?
I avoid using the product simultaneously with other air fresheners (only one answer possible)
N= 822
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
822 77 60 44 127 95 101 64 56 106 92
Always 54% 55% 58% 59% 53% 73% 58% 66% 54% 36% 38%
Sometimes 26% 19% 20% 23% 31% 12% 23% 28% 34% 25% 39%
Never 21% 26% 22% 18% 17% 16% 19% 6% 13% 40% 23%
Half of the users (54%) avoid using the products simultaneously with other air fresheners. Users in
France (73%) are particularly careful about not using several air fresheners simultaneously.
Room ventilation
Q.124.3. How, if at all, do you protect yourself when using passive air fresheners (gel, liquid, wipes/tissues) ?
I ventilate the room (only one answer possible)
N= 822
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
822 77 60 44 127 95 101 64 56 106 92
Always 32% 26% 43% 52% 33% 32% 44% 28% 43% 13% 23%
Sometimes 35% 43% 30% 30% 31% 34% 28% 47% 29% 32% 38%
Never 34% 31% 27% 18% 35% 35% 29% 25% 29% 55% 39%
Chapter 3 Survey results
107
Use patterns are divided equally when it comes to ventilation, between those always ventilating
(32%), those who do it occasionally (35%) and those who don’t ventilate at all (34%).
Users in Denmark are slightly more likely to ventilate (52%) when using passive air fresheners than
those in other countries.
Q.125. Which of the following statements best describe how you ventilate the room when using passive air
fresheners (gel, liquid, wipes/tissues) ? (several answers possible)
N= 541
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
541 53 44 36 82 62 72 48 40 48 56
I open the window(s) 74
%
75
%
77
%
78
%
61
%
71
%
78
%
83
%
78
%
69
%
71
%
I open the indoor door(s) 38
%
38
%
43
%
22
%
43
%
42
%
39
%
33
%
38
%
27
%
46
%
I open the outdoor door(s) 16
% 8% 9%
28
%
23
%
23
%
21
%
15
%
13
%
15
%
13
%
I use an electric in built fan/ventilation
system 7% 9% -
11
% 4% 5% 7% 2%
13
%
10
%
13
%
I use a mechanical (rotary) fan 5% 6% - 8% 5% 8% 3% - 13
% 6% 5%
I ventilate in another way 5% 4% 2% 6% 5% 6% 1% 4% 8% 13
% -
As for most product categories, ventilation is mostly done by opening the window (74%) and less
frequently by opening the indoor door (38%) or the outdoor door (16%).
Q.126. When do you ventilate the room ? (only one answer possible)
N= 541
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
541 53 44 36 82 62 72 48 40 48 56
I ventilate the room during the
use of the product 28% 23% 16% 22% 24% 27% 32% 31% 25% 33% 39%
I ventilate the room during the
use of the product and for less
than 15 minutes afterwards
23% 19% 18% 17% 27% 23% 26% 25% 23% 17% 29%
I ventilate the room during the
use of the product and for at
least 15 minutes afterwards
23% 25% 30% 42% 30% 23% 21% 17% 18% 17% 18%
I do not ventilate the room
during the use of the product
but I do it for less than 15
17% 26% 20% 6% 11% 16% 18% 23% 20% 21% 9%
Chapter 3 Survey results
108
minutes afterwards
I do not ventilate the room
during the use of the product
but I do it for at least 15
minutes afterwards
9% 8% 16% 14% 7% 11% 3% 4% 15% 13% 5%
Ventilate during the use of the
product 74% 66% 64% 81% 82% 73% 79% 73% 65% 67% 86%
Ventilate after the use of the
product 26% 34% 36% 19% 18% 27% 21% 27% 35% 33% 14%
Most people (74%) ventilate during the use of the product, while a quarter (26%) do it only after
using the product.
Most frequently used brands
Q.127.a. Which of the following passive air fresheners do you use most in your household ? (up to 3 answers
possible)
N= 822
All
822
Air Wick 45%
Brise 26%
Ambi Pur 19%
As for most air fresheners, the most frequently used brands are Air Wick (45%), Brise (26%) and Ambi
Pur (19%).
Most frequently used formats
Q.127.b. What format do you use most? (several answers possible)
N= 822
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
822 77 60 44 127 95 101 64 56 106 92
Gel 63% 65% 45% 59% 57% 48% 75% 67% 73% 66% 73%
Liquid 54% 47% 62% 50% 57% 71% 45% 69% 46% 42% 53%
Wipes/Tissues 19% 16% 27% 16% 25% 18% 5% 30% 11% 16% 21%
Regarding the formats, most people use air freshening gels (63%). Slightly fewer (54%) use the
product as liquid, and only 19% use them as wipes.
Chapter 3 Survey results
109
Quantities of product used
Q.128.a. How much air freshener do you use on one occasion? (only one answer possible)
N= 444
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
444 36 37 22 73 67 45 44 26 45 49
1 unit 60% 81% 81% 59% 63% 58% 71% 45% 50% 64% 39%
2 units 25% 11% 14% 18% 23% 24% 13% 36% 31% 27% 43%
3 units 10% 6% 5% 18% 11% 13% 11% 9% 12% 7% 14%
4 units 2% - - - - 1% 4% 9% 8% - 2%
5 units % - - - - 1% - - - - -
More than 5 units 2% 3% - 5% 3% 1% - - - 2% 2%
1 unit 60% 81% 81% 59% 63% 58% 71% 45% 50% 64% 39%
2 units or more 40% 19% 19% 41% 37% 42% 29% 55% 50% 36% 61%
Mean 1,62 1,36 1,24 1,77 1,59 1,69 1,49 1,82 1,77 1,51 1,88
In terms of quantities, the majority (60%) use one unit each time, while 40% use 2 units or more.
Users in Italy are slightly more likely to use more then one unit at the same time (55%).
Chapter 3 Survey results
110
3.12 Insecticides
Across the 10 countries, 37% of the survey population has used insecticides at least once during the
six months before the survey took place.
Insecticides are most frequently used in Southern Europe, with 56% of the respondents in Italy and
52% of those in Spain having used the product during the previous 6 months. They are also slightly
more common in certain Eastern European countries, with 45% users in Hungary and 45% in Czech
Republic.
The product is less often used in Sweden (22%) and Poland (23%).
Use frequency
Q.129. How often do you use insecticides in your home (indoors) ? (only one answer possible)
N= 1416
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1416 165 87 100 185 152 201 203 136 102 85
At least once a day 10% 8% 3% - 17% 9% 8% 13% 18% 3% 7%
Several times a week 17% 21% 16% 3% 22% 16% 17% 21% 18% 4% 20%
Once a week 10% 7% 10% 7% 16% 8% 9% 15% 11% 5% 7%
Once every two weeks 8% 10% 3% 5% 14% 9% 7% 7% 10% 7% 5%
Once a month 12% 15% 11% 15% 5% 13% 10% 9% 16% 16% 8%
Less than once a month 32% 29% 39% 62% 19% 36% 28% 24% 18% 50% 41%
Do not know 12% 11% 16% 8% 6% 9% 20% 12% 9% 16% 12%
Daily 10% 8% 3% - 17% 9% 8% 13% 18% 3% 7%
Weekly 27% 28% 26% 10% 38% 24% 26% 35% 29% 9% 27%
Monthly 20% 24% 15% 20% 19% 22% 17% 16% 26% 23% 13%
Less than once a month 32% 29% 39% 62% 19% 36% 28% 24% 18% 50% 41%
Do not know 12% 11% 16% 8% 6% 9% 20% 12% 9% 16% 12%
At least once a week 37% 36% 30% 10% 56% 33% 34% 48% 48% 12% 34%
At least once a month 57% 60% 45% 30% 75% 55% 52% 64% 74% 34% 47%
Less than once a month 32% 29% 39% 62% 19% 36% 28% 24% 18% 50% 41%
Do not know 12% 11% 16% 8% 6% 9% 20% 12% 9% 16% 12%
Chapter 3 Survey results
111
Nearly a third (32%) of those who use insecticides do so less than once a month; 27% use the product
weekly, while only 10% do it daily. The product is used slightly more often in Spain, where 38% of the
respondents use it weekly.
In Denmark, the product is used less often, as 62% use it less than once a month.
Time of day when the product is used
Q.130. When do you use insecticides ? (several answers possible)
N= 1416
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1416 165 87 100 185 152 201 203 136 102 85
Mostly in the evening (between 6pm
and 12pm) 22% 25% 29% 11% 14% 22% 14% 31% 33% 19% 12%
Mostly in the night (between 12pm and
6am) 12% 19% 10% 8% 19% 11% 5% 13% 15% 3% 1%
Mostly in the afternoon (between 12am
and 6pm) 10% 10% 13% 12% 9% 9% 4% 14% 10% 10% 16%
Mostly in the morning (between 6am
and 12am) 10% 10% 8% 9% 17% 9% 4% 10% 15% 6% 8%
At any time, no specific moment 49% 44% 41% 60% 43% 53% 67% 40% 29% 60% 68%
The insecticide is constantly in use 5% 4% 10% 5% 3% 4% 8% 3% 7% 3% 2%
Insecticides are used mostly in the evening (22%), and less frequently during the night (12%),
afternoon (10%) or morning (10%). Users in Poland are more inclined to use the product in the
evening (33%).
There can be different reasons for using the product in the evening, such as the need for the room to
stay closed throughout the night after using some types of insecticides, or in order ensure that
everyone in the household stays away from the room where the product was used in order not to
inhale toxic substances.
Chapter 3 Survey results
112
Room where the product is used
Q.131. In which room(s) have you used insecticides ? (several answers possible)
N= 1416
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1416 165 87 100 185 152 201 203 136 102 85
Living/dining room 53% 44% 59% 50% 58% 76% 48% 54% 49% 42% 56%
Kitchen 49% 45% 51% 46% 54% 49% 61% 42% 39% 57% 61%
Bedroom 47% 50% 43% 30% 65% 59% 51% 43% 49% 35% 29%
Hallway 27% 28% 23% 38% 35% 26% 26% 20% 26% 32% 25%
Bathroom 26% 16% 24% 36% 37% 20% 25% 28% 27% 25% 25%
WC 18% 16% 16% 25% 25% 13% 22% 14% 16% 21% 13%
Closet/Storage room 17% 15% 20% 20% 23% 15% 14% 16% 14% 23% 15%
Other room in the house 17% 18% 21% 27% 17% 11% 15% 19% 7% 25% 13%
The products are mostly used in the living room (53%), in the kitchen (49%) and in the bedroom
(47%). People are less likely to use them in bathrooms (26%) or WC (18%). In France, the product is
most often used in the living room (76%) while in Spain, the product is mostly used in the bedroom
(65%).
Surfaces on which the product is used
Q.132. On which area(s) have you used insecticides ? (only one answer possible)
N= 1416
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1416 165 87 100 185 152 201 203 136 102 85
Floor 33% 29% 24% 56% 40% 26% 34% 34% 24% 31% 32%
Inside window sill 30% 18% 40% 31% 25% 36% 16% 37% 33% 29% 38%
Walls 27% 27% 24% 20% 31% 26% 23% 28% 35% 20% 25%
House plants 21% 30% 25% 9% 35% 7% 20% 15% 20% 26% 26%
Doors 15% 8% 15% 14% 18% 24% 12% 16% 15% 22% 13%
Toilet 12% 20% 10% 8% 13% 8% 7% 8% 16% 13% 11%
Sink 8% 13% 6% 2% 9% 5% 7% 7% 11% 12% 9%
Other furniture 8% 10% 14% 7% 10% 3% 3% 4% 15% 6% 8%
Shower 7% 11% 5% 6% 8% 3% 4% 5% 12% 6% 9%
Chapter 3 Survey results
113
Bed 7% 7% 10% 4% 15% 8% 3% 7% 6% 3% 7%
Bathtub 6% 8% 3% 3% 10% 2% 2% 4% 8% 7% 8%
Kitchen electrical appliances (oven,
refrigerator etc.) 3% 2% 5% 2% 4% 1% 2% 3% 1% 2% 6%
Other area 28% 27% 32% 26% 30% 39% 41% 22% 17% 37% 19%
Insecticides are mostly used on floors (33%), window sills (30%) and walls (27%). A fifth of the
respondents (21%) use them on house plants.
In Germany, the product is mostly used on window sills (40%).
Protection measures
Use of gloves
Q.133.1. How, if at all, do you protect yourself when using insecticides ? I wear gloves (only one answer
possible)
N= 1416
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1416 165 87 100 185 152 201 203 136 102 85
Always 19% 19% 22% 14% 17% 11% 12% 22% 33% 17% 21%
Sometimes 19% 25% 15% 20% 19% 12% 15% 19% 21% 12% 27%
Never 62% 56% 63% 66% 63% 78% 73% 59% 46% 72% 52%
Only a fifth (19%) of the respondents always wear gloves when using insecticides. A similar
proportion wears protective gloves occasionally, while the majority (62%) never wear gloves when
using the product.
Users in Poland are slightly more inclined to wear gloves (33%) than those in other countries.
Use of protection mask
Q.133.2. How, if at all, do you protect yourself when using insecticides ? I wear a protection mask (only one
answer possible)
N= 1416
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1416 165 87 100 185 152 201 203 136 102 85
Always 9% 3% 13% 6% 8% 8% 3% 13% 15% 6% 12%
Sometimes 11% 7% 10% 6% 14% 8% 8% 14% 15% 11% 13%
Never 80% 90% 77% 88% 78% 84% 88% 73% 70% 83% 75%
Chapter 3 Survey results
114
Most users (80%) never wear a protection mask when working with insecticides. Although the
majority does not take this measure, people are slightly more inclined to do this occasionally (11%)
or regularly (9%) than when using other products.
Avoiding contact with the product
Q.133.3. How, if at all, do you protect yourself when using insecticides ? I avoid getting the product in
contact with my eyes or mouth (only one answer possible)
N= 1416
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1416 165 87 100 185 152 201 203 136 102 85
Always 84% 90% 84% 86% 83% 84% 79% 82% 86% 80% 79%
Sometimes 6% 4% 9% 7% 7% 7% 3% 9% 7% 5% 6%
Never 10% 6% 7% 7% 10% 9% 18% 9% 7% 15% 15%
The majority (84%) are careful to not get the product in contact with their eyes or mouth while using
it.
Avoiding using the product in combination with other products
Q.133.4. How, if at all, do you protect yourself when using insecticides ? I avoid using the product in
combination with other insecticides (only one answer possible)
N= 1416
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1416 165 87 100 185 152 201 203 136 102 85
Always 72% 76% 70% 70% 74% 69% 72% 76% 74% 54% 68%
Sometimes 11% 8% 13% 13% 10% 11% 4% 13% 13% 17% 11%
Never 17% 15% 17% 17% 16% 20% 24% 11% 14% 29% 21%
Most users avoid combining the product with other insecticides (72%). Respondents in Sweden are
slightly more inclined to combine the product with others (29%) than users across the 10 countries
(17%).
Room ventilation
Q.133.5. How, if at all, do you protect yourself when using insecticides ? I ventilate the room (only one
answer possible)
N= 1416
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1416 165 87 100 185 152 201 203 136 102 85
Always 61% 75% 60% 54% 55% 53% 66% 71% 60% 43% 53%
Sometimes 24% 17% 28% 23% 25% 28% 22% 18% 26% 34% 26%
Never 15% 8% 13% 23% 20% 18% 12% 10% 14% 23% 21%
Chapter 3 Survey results
115
When it comes to ventilating, 61% of the users do this always, while 24% do it occasionally, and 15%
don’t do it at all. Ventilating is more common in Czech Republic (75%) and in Italy (71%) and less
frequent in Denmark (23% don’t ventilate at all).
Q.134. Which of the following statements best describe how you ventilate the room when using an
insecticide ? (several answers possible)
N= 1199
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1199 152 76 77 148 124 177 182 117 79 67
I open the window(s) 87% 95% 83% 82% 85% 81% 90% 90% 86% 78% 79%
I open the indoor door 30% 25% 51% 29% 33% 23% 28% 24% 31% 23% 46%
I open the outdoor door 25% 22% 13% 44% 23% 23% 26% 21% 20% 44% 33%
I use an electric in built
fan/ventilation system 4% 3% 3% 4% 1% 6% 5% 5% 5% 6% 4%
I use a mechanical (rotary) fan 3% 1% 4% 1% 5% - 1% 4% 4% 5% 4%
I ventilate in another way 3% 3% 5% 4% 3% 4% 1% 2% 5% 8% 3%
As in most cases, ventilation is done mostly by opening the window (87%).
Q.135. When do you ventilate the room ? (only one answer possible)
N= 1199
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1199 152 76 77 148 124 177 182 117 79 67
I ventilate the room during the
use of the product 20% 24% 25% 18% 24% 15% 13% 23% 13% 20% 27%
I ventilate the room during the
use of the product and for less
than 15 minutes afterwards
18% 16% 12% 14% 22% 15% 17% 21% 19% 14% 24%
I ventilate the room during the
use of the product and for at
least 15 minutes afterwards
32% 32% 32% 34% 26% 31% 33% 34% 34% 27% 33%
I do not ventilate the room
during the use of the product
but I do it for less than 15
minutes afterwards
11% 9% 7% 5% 16% 18% 18% 9% 9% 13% 9%
I do not ventilate the room
during the use of the product
but I do it for at least 15
minutes afterwards
19% 19% 25% 29% 12% 20% 19% 13% 26% 27% 7%
Ventilate during the use of the
product 70% 72% 68% 66% 72% 62% 63% 77% 66% 61% 84%
Chapter 3 Survey results
116
Ventilate after the use of the
product 30% 28% 32% 34% 28% 38% 37% 23% 34% 39% 16%
Even though the majority ventilate during the use of the product (70%), slightly more people
ventilate only after having used the product (30%) than they do for most other products. This may be
related to different instructions of using insecticides, as in order for some of these products to be
efficient, the room needs to stay closed.
Respecting product use instructions
Q.136.a. Do you read the instructions before using an insecticide for the first time ?
(only one answer possible)
N= 1416
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1416 165 87 100 185 152 201 203 136 102 85
Yes 84% 90% 82% 82% 79% 76% 90% 87% 85% 85% 78%
No 15% 10% 16% 16% 19% 22% 10% 12% 15% 13% 22%
The product you use does not come
with instructions 1% - 2% 2% 2% 2% - 1% 1% 2% -
The majority (84%) read instructions before using an insecticide for the first time, with no significant
variations between the 10 countries.
Q.136.b. Do you usually respect the recommended quantities
? (only one answer possible)
N= 1416
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1416 165 87 100 185 152 201 203 136 102 85
Yes 72% 80% 68% 75% 67% 68% 77% 72% 75% 66% 65%
No, I use more product than what
is recommended 11% 6% 10% 9% 17% 16% 9% 9% 11% 10% 18%
No, I use less product than what is
recommended 3% 2% 3% 1% 2% 3% 1% 7% 3% 7% 2%
There are no recommendations
regarding quantities for the
product you are using
5% 4% 7% 4% 10% 6% 2% 2% 3% 4% 8%
Do not know 9% 8% 11% 11% 4% 6% 10% 9% 8% 14% 7%
Use the recommended quantities
or less 76% 82% 71% 76% 69% 72% 78% 80% 78% 73% 67%
No, i use more product than what
is recommended 11% 6% 10% 9% 17% 16% 9% 9% 11% 10% 18%
Chapter 3 Survey results
117
There are no recommendations
regarding quantities for the
product you are using
5% 4% 7% 4% 10% 6% 2% 2% 3% 4% 8%
Do not know 9% 8% 11% 11% 4% 6% 10% 9% 8% 14% 7%
Most users use the recommended quantities (72%), with a further 3% using less. Very few people
(11%) use more product than what is recommended.
Most frequently used brands
Q.137.a. Which of the following types of insecticide do you use most in your household ? (up to 3 answers
possible)
N= 1416
All
1416
Raid 38%
Baygon 13%
Bayer 11%
When it comes to brands, the most frequently used across the 10 countries is Raid (38%). Other
popular brands, although not as often used as the first one, are Baygon (13%) and Bayer (11%).
Most frequently used formats
Q.137.b. What format do you use most? (several answers possible)
N= 1416
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1416 165 87 100 185 152 201 203 136 102 85
Spray 73% 88% 74% 75% 8% 84% 87% 81% 65% 85% 84%
Electric units - Tablets 21% 22% 16% 3% 26% 24% 23% 33% 26% 7% 1%
Liquid 15% 6% 10% 12% 67% 5% 5% 9% 18% 9% 18%
Electric units - Liquids that are heated 15% 24% 8% 2% 20% 10% 17% 16% 30% 3% -
Powder 15% 3% 11% 24% 17% 6% 13% 21% 18% 17% 21%
The most common formats for insecticides are sprays (73%). A fifth (21%) of the respondents use
electric devices which work with tablets that are heated. Electric insecticides (tablets) are more
common in Italy (33%) than they are in other countries.
Chapter 3 Survey results
118
Quantities of product use
Q.138.c. How much insecticide do you use on one occasion? (only one answer possible)
N= 1011
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1011 146 64 75 15 127 174 164 88 87 71
1-2 seconds 25% 29% 25% 23% 13% 17% 37% 20% 24% 18% 27%
3-4 seconds 45% 48% 36% 36% 33% 54% 44% 46% 41% 49% 42%
5-6 seconds 19% 14% 19% 13% 40% 21% 11% 24% 25% 18% 18%
7-8 seconds 4% 2% 9% 8% 13% 3% 3% 5% 1% 5% 6%
9-10 seconds 3% 1% 6% 4% - 1% 3% 3% 3% 7% 3%
More than 10 seconds 5% 6% 5% 16% - 5% 2% 2% 6% 2% 4%
1-2 seconds 25% 29% 25% 23% 13% 17% 37% 20% 24% 18% 27%
3-6 seconds 63% 62% 55% 49% 73% 75% 55% 70% 66% 68% 61%
7-10 seconds 7% 3% 16% 12% 13% 4% 6% 8% 5% 11% 8%
More than 10 seconds 5% 6% 5% 16% - 5% 2% 2% 6% 2% 4%
Mean 4,11 3,80 4,50 5,15 4,57 4,15 3,45 4,15 4,23 4,28 4,06
Among those using the most common format (spray), most spray during three and six seconds on
each occasion (63%). The average time for spraying is slightly over four seconds (4,11 seconds).
Chapter 3 Survey results
119
3.13 Coating products for leather and textiles
Coating products are among the lowest penetration product classes, with only 20% of the overall
respondents having used these during the six months before the time of the survey.
Use frequency
Q.139. How often do you use coating products for leather and textiles in your home ? (only one answer
possible)
N= 843
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
843 90 61 70 123 90 60 62 72 144 71
At least once a day 5% 7% 8% 1% 9% 4% 5% 6% 7% 1% 1%
Several times a week 9% 7% 5% 6% 18% 9% 18% 10% 18% 2% 7%
Once a week 15% 14% 15% 9% 21% 22% 17% 26% 14% 3% 17%
Once every two weeks 11% 14% 13% 7% 11% 11% 3% 15% 14% 2% 18%
Once a month 16% 26% 10% 3% 14% 16% 17% 10% 17% 19% 18%
Less than once a month 35% 24% 39% 66% 22% 34% 27% 19% 18% 62% 31%
Do not know 9% 8% 10% 9% 6% 3% 13% 15% 13% 10% 7%
Daily 5% 7% 8% 1% 9% 4% 5% 6% 7% 1% 1%
Weekly 24% 21% 20% 14% 39% 31% 35% 35% 32% 5% 24%
Monthly 27% 40% 23% 10% 24% 27% 20% 24% 31% 22% 37%
Less than once a month 35% 24% 39% 66% 22% 34% 27% 19% 18% 62% 31%
Do not know 9% 8% 10% 9% 6% 3% 13% 15% 13% 10% 7%
At least once a week 29% 28% 28% 16% 48% 36% 40% 42% 39% 6% 25%
At least once a month 56% 68% 51% 26% 72% 62% 60% 66% 69% 28% 62%
Less than once a month 35% 24% 39% 66% 22% 34% 27% 19% 18% 62% 31%
Do not know 9% 8% 10% 9% 6% 3% 13% 15% 13% 10% 7%
Among the users of coating products which were interviewed for the survey, just over one-third
(35%) use the product less than once a month, while 27% use them once or twice a month; 24% use
them once or more a week, and 5% use them daily.
Coating products are therefore among the least frequently used product classes.
Chapter 3 Survey results
120
Time of day when the product is used
Q.140.a. When do you use coating products for leather and textiles ? (several answers possible)
N= 843
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
843 90 61 70 123 90 60 62 72 144 71
Mostly in the morning (between 6am and
12am)
23
%
17
%
16
%
11
%
39
%
34
%
20
%
37
%
29
%
10
%
18
%
Mostly in the afternoon (between 12am and
6pm)
18
%
17
%
16
%
17
%
21
%
18
%
17
%
34
%
11
%
15
%
20
%
Mostly in the evening (between 6pm and
12pm)
16
%
16
%
30
%
17
%
13
%
18
% 8%
16
% 8%
19
%
17
%
Mostly in the night (between 12pm and 6am) 2% - 7% 1% 6% 1% - - 1% 1% 1%
At any time, no specific moment 47
%
54
%
46
%
59
%
27
%
33
%
57
%
23
%
50
%
60
%
52
%
Respondents tend not to choose a specific time of the day to use the product (47% use them at any
time, with no specific moment). The products are however used slightly more often in the morning
(23%) than at other moments of the day.
Room where the product is used
Q.140.b. In which room(s) do you use coating products for leather and textiles ? (several answers possible)
N= 843
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
843 90 61 70 123 90 60 62 72 144 71
Living/dining room 56% 30% 54% 69% 61% 68% 33% 71% 50% 56% 72%
Hallway 19% 42% 26% 14% 7% 9% 33% 3% 29% 22% 3%
Bedroom 16% 9% 11% 13% 27% 18% 13% 21% 19% 7% 23%
Bathroom 11% 18% 11% 6% 11% 8% 18% 13% 18% 4% 10%
Kitchen 11% 10% 10% 11% 16% 8% 7% 10% 11% 9% 14%
Closet/Storage room 7% 11% 7% 6% 9% 8% 7% 2% 10% 6% 6%
WC 4% 7% 2% 4% 9% 1% - 3% 3% 3% 1%
Other room in the house 15% 18% 16% 19% 15% 14% 18% 18% 6% 22% 4%
Coating products are mostly used in the living room (56%).
Habits vary between countries, as in the UK the products are mostly used in the living room (72%) – a
similar pattern to Italy (71%) and Denmark (69%) while in Czech Republic, people are more likely to
use them in the hallway (42%).
Chapter 3 Survey results
121
Surfaces on which the product is used
Q.141. On which surface(s) do you use coating products for leather and textiles ? (several answers possible)
N= 843
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
843 90 61 70 123 90 60 62 72 144 71
Leather clothing accessories (i.e. Shoes,
handbags, etc.) 52% 62% 51% 50% 59% 50% 72% 32% 63% 51% 35%
Leather furniture and interior
decoration 45% 23% 51% 50% 48% 47% 27% 47% 42% 52% 59%
Leather clothing items 35% 40% 49% 29% 39% 32% 20% 35% 38% 37% 23%
Textile accessories (shoes, handbags
etc.) 26% 41% 30% 20% 32% 19% 22% 26% 26% 19% 17%
Textile clothing items 18% 19% 25% 21% 24% 19% 8% 21% 17% 12% 17%
Textile furniture and interior
decoration 17% 10% 11% 7% 28% 17% 17% 26% 28% 14% 13%
Other surface 4% 3% 8% 9% 6% - 5% 11% 3% 2% -
The products are most often used on leather accessories such as shoes and handbags (52%). This
tendency exists in Hungary (72%) more than anywhere else.
Slightly fewer than half of the respondents (45%) use the products on leather furniture and interior
decoration. People in the UK are more likely to use coating products on furniture and decorative
items (59%) than those in other countries.
A third (35%) use these products on leather clothing items.
Coating products are slightly less often used on textiles, whether accessories (26%), clothing (18%)
or furniture (17%) than they are on leather. Consumers in the Czech Republic are more inclined to
use the products on textile accessories (41%) than those in other countries.
Chapter 3 Survey results
122
Protection measures
Use of gloves
Q.142.1. How, if at all, do you protect yourself when using coating products for leather and textiles ? I wear
gloves (only one answer possible)
N= 843
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
843 90 61 70 123 90 60 62 72 144 71
Always 22% 11% 11% 24% 37% 19% 13% 35% 29% 15% 25%
Sometimes 25% 24% 31% 21% 28% 22% 18% 29% 36% 17% 25%
Never 53% 64% 57% 54% 35% 59% 68% 35% 35% 69% 49%
Just over half (53%) don’t wear gloves when using coating products; 25% use them occasionally and
22% do it regularly.
Users in Southern Europe are more likely to wear protection gloves than those in other countries
(Spain – 37% and Italy – 35%).
Use of protection mask
Q.142.2. How, if at all, do you protect yourself when using coating products for leather and textiles ? I wear a
protection mask (only one answer possible)
N= 843
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
843 90 61 70 123 90 60 62 72 144 71
Always 8% 3% 11% 4% 16% 12% 3% 13% 7% 3% 6%
Sometimes 14% 8% 13% 7% 24% 6% 10% 31% 15% 7% 21%
Never 78% 89% 75% 89% 60% 82% 87% 56% 78% 90% 73%
Although most users (78%) never wear a protection mask when using the product, an important
minority (14%) occasionally resort to this protection method, while 8% do it regularly.
Avoiding contact with the product
Q.142.3. How, if at all, do you protect yourself when using coating products for leather and textiles ? I avoid
getting the product in contact with my eyes or mouth (only one answer possible)
N= 843
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
843 90 61 70 123 90 60 62 72 144 71
Always 78% 86% 66% 89% 73% 74% 70% 68% 82% 88% 70%
Sometimes 11% 7% 15% 4% 20% 11% 3% 19% 7% 5% 17%
Never 12% 8% 20% 7% 7% 14% 27% 13% 11% 7% 13%
Chapter 3 Survey results
123
The majority (78%) avoid getting the product in contact with their eyes or mouth.
Avoiding using the product in combination with other products
Q.142.4. How, if at all, do you protect yourself when using coating products for leather and textiles ? I avoid
using the product in combination with other products (only one answer possible)
N= 843
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
843 90 61 70 123 90 60 62 72 144 71
Always 67% 76% 59% 77% 67% 61% 72% 69% 67% 69% 59%
Sometimes 14% 10% 21% 11% 17% 18% 7% 16% 15% 12% 17%
Never 18% 14% 20% 11% 16% 21% 22% 15% 18% 19% 24%
Two-thirds (67%) always avoid using coating products in combination with other products, while
nearly a fifth (18%) then to combine the products.
Room ventilation
Q.142.5. How, if at all, do you protect yourself when using coating products for leather and textiles ? I
ventilate the room (only one answer possible)
N= 843
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
843 90 61 70 123 90 60 62 72 144 71
Always 44% 50% 51% 59% 46% 36% 47% 44% 42% 41% 27%
Sometimes 33% 37% 33% 23% 37% 40% 28% 37% 31% 29% 34%
Never 23% 13% 16% 19% 17% 24% 25% 19% 28% 30% 39%
Fewer than half (44%) always ventilate the room when using the product. A third (33%) only do it
occasionally, while 23% never ventilate.
Q.143. Which of the following statements best describe how you ventilate the room when using a coating
product for leather and textiles ? (several answers possible)
N= 647
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
647 78 51 57 102 68 45 50 52 101 43
I open the window(s) 79% 83% 82% 67% 79% 82% 80% 90% 81% 68% 81%
I open the indoor door(s) 28% 33% 39% 23% 37% 26% 29% 12% 25% 22% 28%
I open the outdoor door(s) 26% 19% 12% 46% 22% 24% 40% 16% 35% 29% 28%
I use an electric in built
fan/ventilation system 6% 5% 4% 7% 4% 3% 4% 6% 4% 14% 7%
I use a mechanical (rotary) fan 4% - 10% 7% 5% 3% 4% 4% 2% 3% 7%
Chapter 3 Survey results
124
I ventilate in another way 5% 5% 8% 11% 3% 3% 2% 2% 2% 10% -
Ventilation is done mostly by opening the window (79%), and less often by opening the doors or by
using a fan.
Q.144. When do you ventilate the room for leather and textiles ? (only one answer possible)
N= 647
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
647 78 51 57 102 68 45 50 52 101 43
I ventilate the room during the
use of the product 30% 28% 24% 28% 34% 38% 27% 40% 25% 30% 30%
I ventilate the room during the
use of the product and for less
than 15 minutes afterwards
25% 31% 24% 12% 27% 22% 27% 22% 35% 18% 33%
I ventilate the room during the
use of the product and for at
least 15 minutes afterwards
30% 28% 39% 44% 25% 22% 24% 30% 19% 34% 28%
I do not ventilate the room
during the use of the product
but I do it for less than 15
minutes afterwards
9% 12% 8% 5% 7% 13% 11% 4% 12% 12% 7%
I do not ventilate the room
during the use of the product
but I do it for at least 15
minutes afterwards
6% 1% 6% 11% 6% 4% 11% 4% 10% 7% 2%
Ventilate during the use of the
product 85% 87% 86% 84% 87% 82% 78% 92% 79% 81% 91%
Ventilate after the use of the
product 15% 13% 14% 16% 13% 18% 22% 8% 21% 19% 9%
People are more likely to ventilate while using the product (85%) and only 15% only do it afterwards.
Chapter 3 Survey results
125
Respecting product use instructions
Q.145. Do you read the instructions before using a coating product for leather and textiles for the first time ?
(only one answer possible)
N= 843
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
843 90 61 70 123 90 60 62 72 144 71
Yes 86
%
90
%
82
%
83
%
85
%
83
%
93
%
84
%
85
%
89
%
86
%
No 12
% 7%
16
%
14
%
13
%
14
% 5%
11
%
13
%
10
%
13
%
The product you use does not come with
instructions 2% 3% 2% 3% 2% 2% 2% 5% 3% 1% 1%
Most people (86%) read the instructions before using a coating product for the first time. As for
other product classes, Hungarian users are more inclined to read these (93%) than those in other
countries.
Q.146. Do you usually respect the recommended quantities ? (only one answer possible)
N= 843
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
843 90 61 70 123 90 60 62 72 144 71
Yes 72% 77% 66% 69% 68% 67% 83% 79% 69% 74% 72%
No, I use more product than
what is recommended 10% 3% 18% 9% 15% 12% 8% 13% 8% 10% 7%
No, I use less product than
what is recommended 6% 7% 3% 6% 7% 8% 2% 5% 6% 5% 8%
There are no recommendations
regarding quantities for the
product you are using
6% 4% 8% 6% 7% 7% 2% 2% 7% 3% 11%
Do not know 6% 9% 5% 11% 3% 7% 5% 2% 10% 8% 1%
Use the recommended
quantities or less 78% 83% 69% 74% 76% 74% 85% 84% 75% 78% 80%
No, i use more product than
what is recommended 10% 3% 18% 9% 15% 12% 8% 13% 8% 10% 7%
There are no recommendations
regarding quantities for the
product you are using
6% 4% 8% 6% 7% 7% 2% 2% 7% 3% 11%
Do not know 6% 9% 5% 11% 3% 7% 5% 2% 10% 8% 1%
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Regarding quantities, the majority (72%) use the recommended quantities, with a further 6% using
less, while 10% use more product than indicated.
Most frequently used brands
Q.147.a. Which of the following coating products for leather and textiles do you use most in your household
? (up to 3 answers possible)
N= 843
All
843
Kiwi 22%
Boston 9%
Bufalo 5%
The most frequently used brand of coating products across the 10 countries where the survey took
place is Kiwi (22% of the respondents who use coating products for leather and textile prefer this
brand).
Most frequently used formats
Q.147.b. What format do you use most? (several
answers possible)
N= 843
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
843 90 61 70 12
3 90 60 62 72
14
4 71
Spray 45% 46
%
64
%
39
%
46
%
44
%
27
%
40
%
47
%
46
%
41
%
Cream 33% 48
%
23
%
29
%
32
%
30
%
40
%
32
%
21
%
42
%
24
%
Liquid 29% 11
%
23
%
29
%
36
%
37
%
42
%
21
%
46
%
26
%
32
%
The most often used formats for coating products are sprays (45%). Cream is used by 33% of the
respondents. Users in Czech Republic are more inclined towards using the latter, with 48% of the
users preferring the product as cream. Hungary is the only country which has more cream users than
spray users (40% vs 27%).
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Quantities of product used
Q.148.a. How much coating product do you use on one occasion? (only one answer possible)
N= 373
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
373 41 39 27 56 40 16 25 34 66 29
1-2 seconds 23% 27% 10% 22% 34% 20% 44% 40% 21% 15% 17%
3-4 seconds 40% 29% 49% 15% 43% 58% 19% 48% 44% 39% 38%
5-6 seconds 25% 37% 23% 22% 18% 10% 31% 12% 26% 30% 38%
7-8 seconds 3% - 8% 11% 4% - - - 3% 5% -
9-10 seconds 3% - 3% 19% - 8% 6% - 3% 2% -
More than 10 seconds 6% 7% 8% 11% 2% 5% - - 3% 9% 7%
1-2 seconds 23% 27% 10% 22% 34% 20% 44% 40% 21% 15% 17%
3-6 seconds 65% 66% 72% 37% 61% 68% 50% 60% 71% 70% 76%
7-10 seconds 6% - 10% 30% 4% 8% 6% - 6% 6% -
more than 10 seconds 6% 7% 8% 11% 2% 5% - - 3% 9% 7%
Mean 4,32 4,28 4,83 5,94 3,46 4,15 3,63 2,94 4,15 4,80 4,47
Among those who use coating products in sprays, most people (65%) spray for three to six seconds,
while 23% only spray for one to two seconds.The average time for spraying is 4.3 seconds.
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128
3.14 Hairspray
Across the 10 countries, 41% have used hairspray during the 6 months before the study took place.
Use frequency
Q.149. How often do you personally use hairspray in your home ? (only one answer possible)
N= 1333
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1333 120 113 147 150 128 195 91 99 200 90
At least once a day 31% 40% 35% 27% 22% 39% 42% 15% 31% 28% 28%
Several times a week 29% 30% 31% 25% 19% 27% 33% 31% 32% 30% 31%
Once a week 13% 13% 6% 12% 19% 9% 14% 24% 13% 11% 11%
Once every two weeks 7% 3% 7% 12% 17% 5% 3% 12% 5% 6% 8%
Once a month 4% 3% 6% 7% 3% 5% 1% 1% 5% 9% -
Less than once a month 11% 6% 12% 14% 17% 11% 5% 10% 8% 14% 17%
Do not know 4% 5% 3% 3% 3% 5% 3% 7% 5% 4% 6%
Daily 31% 40% 35% 27% 22% 39% 42% 15% 31% 28% 28%
Weekly 42% 43% 37% 37% 39% 36% 47% 55% 45% 40% 42%
Monthly 12% 7% 13% 19% 19% 9% 4% 13% 10% 15% 8%
Less than once a month 11,18 5,83 11,50 13,61 17,33 10,94 5,13 9,89 8,08 14,00 16,67
Do not know 4% 5% 3% 3% 3% 5% 3% 7% 5% 4% 6%
At least once a week 73% 83% 73% 64% 61% 75% 88% 70% 77% 68% 70%
At least once a month 85% 89% 86% 83% 80% 84% 92% 84% 87% 83% 78%
Less than once a month 11% 6% 12% 14% 17% 11% 5% 10% 8% 14% 17%
Do not know 4% 5% 3% 3% 3% 5% 3% 7% 5% 4% 6%
Among those who use hair spray, 31% do it once a day, while 29% do it several times a week. The use
of hairspray is more frequent in Hungary and the Czech Republic (42% and 40% use the product
daily) than it is in other countries.
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129
Time of day when the product is used
Q.150. When do you normally use hairspray ? (several answers possible)
N= 1333
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1333 120 113 147 150 128 195 91 99 200 90
Mostly in the morning (between 6am
and 12am) 59% 63% 60% 55% 41% 73% 74% 43% 58% 55% 61%
Mostly in the evening (between 6pm
and 12pm) 15% 5% 17% 18% 24% 7% 8% 32% 6% 19% 22%
Mostly in the afternoon (between 12am
and 6pm) 7% 12% 6% 6% 13% 5% 3% 10% 4% 8% 9%
Mostly in the night (between 12pm and
6am) 2% 1% - 3% 11% - - 2% - 1% 3%
At any time, no specific moment 25% 30% 24% 27% 25% 21% 21% 22% 34% 26% 16%
Hairspray is most frequently used in the morning (59%). Few people use the product in the evening
(15%) or in the afternoon (7%).
Room where the product is used
Q.151. In which room(s) do you normally use hairspray ? (several answers possible)
N= 1333
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1333 120 113 147 150 128 195 91 99 200 90
Bathroom 84% 90% 90% 79% 78% 96% 98% 91% 90% 78% 48%
Bedroom 11% 2% 4% 19% 9% 4% - 5% 4% 9% 60%
Hallway 8% 11% 3% 11% 6% 2% 6% 2% 10% 21% 7%
WC 8% - 7% 14% 15% 1% - 4% 3% 24% 2%
Living/dining room 4% 2% 1% 6% 7% 3% 2% 3% 4% 2% 9%
Kitchen 1% 1% 1% 2% 3% - - - 1% 1% 2%
Other room in the house 1% 1% 1% 3% 5% 1% - - - 1% 2%
The product is mainly used in the bathroom (84%), while very few (11%) use it in the bedroom. The
UK is the exception, with more using it in the bedroom than in the bathroom (60% vs 48%
respectively).
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130
Protection measures
Avoiding contact with the product
Q.152.1. How, if at all, do you protect yourself when using hairspray ? I avoid getting the product in contact
with my eyes or mouth (only one answer possible)
N= 1333
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1333 120 113 147 150 128 195 91 99 200 90
Always 89% 96% 93% 92% 89% 91% 84% 88% 92% 82% 82%
Sometimes 5% 2% 4% 6% 7% 5% 1% 4% 6% 8% 13%
Never 6% 3% 4% 2% 3% 4% 16% 8% 2% 11% 4%
The majority (89%) are concerned about not getting the product in contact with their eyes or mouth.
Interest in avoiding contact with the product is slightly higher then it is for other product classes,
probably because hairspray comes close to one’s face and avoiding contact requires more attention.
Avoiding using the product in combination with other products
Q.152.2. How, if at all, do you protect yourself when using hairspray ? I avoid using the product in
combination with other products (only one answer possible)
N= 1333
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1333 120 113 147 150 128 195 91 99 200 90
Always 56% 58% 53% 48% 61% 65% 65% 65% 68% 39% 48%
Sometimes 21% 21% 18% 26% 27% 15% 13% 25% 17% 23% 29%
Never 23% 21% 29% 27% 12% 20% 23% 10% 15% 39% 23%
More than half of the respondents (56%) avoid using hairspray in combination with other products.
Nearly a quarter (23%) never avoid combinations between products.
Room ventilation
Q.152.3. How, if at all, do you protect yourself when using hairspray ? I ventilate the room (only one answer
possible)
N= 1333
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1333 120 113 147 150 128 195 91 99 200 90
Always 33% 35% 34% 37% 47% 27% 41% 31% 33% 19% 29%
Sometimes 32% 43% 33% 36% 29% 28% 31% 36% 32% 26% 32%
Never 35% 23% 34% 27% 25% 45% 28% 33% 34% 56% 39%
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Similar proportions either ventilate the room always (33%), occasionally (32%) or not at all (35%)
when using hairspray.
Q.153. Which of the following statements best describe how you ventilate the room when using hairspray ?
(only one answer possible)
N= 870
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
870 93 75 108 113 71 140 61 65 89 55
I open the window(s) 69% 56% 83% 67% 65% 79% 65% 82% 65% 63% 71%
I open the indoor door(s) 38% 45% 28% 40% 46% 30% 46% 31% 35% 31% 40%
I open the outdoor door(s) 9% 3% - 8% 14% 13% 12% 7% 14% 10% 7%
I use an electric in built fan/ventilation
system 7% 10% 7% 5% 3% 7% 5% 2% 5% 18% 11%
I ventilate in another way 4% 3% 1% 8% 4% 1% 1% 2% 6% 4% 4%
I use a mechanical (rotary) fan 2% 2% - 3% 1% - 1% - 9% 6% 2%
Most people ventilate by opening the window (69%), although, compared to ventilation patterns
related to other product classes, a higher proportion (38%) do it by opening the indoor door. This
may be related to the fact that the impact of the product is not perceived to be as dangerous as is
the case for other products, or to the fact that the product is mostly used in the bathroom, where
there is not always a window that can be open.
Q.154. When do you ventilate the room ? (only one answer possible)
N= 870
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
870 93 75 108 113 71 140 61 65 89 55
I ventilate the room during the
use of the product 38% 40% 29% 35% 43% 37% 39% 36% 28% 36% 58%
I ventilate the room during the
use of the product and for less
than 15 minutes afterwards
25% 25% 25% 16% 29% 28% 25% 31% 35% 27% 13%
I ventilate the room during the
use of the product and for at
least 15 minutes afterwards
17% 8% 20% 26% 19% 10% 16% 20% 15% 18% 22%
I do not ventilate the room
during the use of the product
but I do it for less than 15
minutes afterwards
14% 22% 19% 16% 7% 18% 16% 10% 14% 9% 7%
I do not ventilate the room
during the use of the product
but I do it for at least 15
6% 6% 7% 7% 1% 7% 4% 3% 8% 10% -
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132
minutes afterwards
Ventilate during the use of the
product 80% 72% 75% 77% 92% 75% 80% 87% 78% 81% 93%
Ventilate after the use of the
product 20% 28% 25% 23% 8% 25% 20% 13% 22% 19% 7%
Most people ventilate either during, or during and after the use of the product (80%), while fewer
(20%) only ventilate after having used the product.
Respecting product use instructions
Q.155. Do you read the instructions before using a hairspray for the first time ? (only one answer possible)
N= 1333
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1333 120 113 147 150 128 195 91 99 200 90
Yes 47% 48% 26% 37% 57% 41% 70% 63% 65% 32% 42%
No 50% 51% 66% 58% 42% 59% 28% 36% 34% 66% 53%
The product you use does not come
with instructions 3% 1% 8% 5% 1% - 2% 1% 1% 3% 4%
Half of the respondents (50%) do not read the instructions when using a hairspray for the first time.
Users in Germany (66%) and Sweden (66%) are less likely to read these than those in other countries.
Q.156. Do you usually respect the recommended quantities ? (only one answer possible)
N= 1333
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1333 120 113 147 150 128 195 91 99 200 90
Yes 45% 52% 29% 29% 51% 51% 56% 68% 64% 23% 44%
No, I use more product than
what is recommended 17% 14% 18% 12% 27% 18% 16% 9% 13% 22% 18%
No, I use less product than
what is recommended 6% 6% 6% 5% 7% 8% 4% 5% 3% 10% 1%
There are no recommendations
regarding quantities for the
product you are using
16% 17% 24% 16% 11% 11% 9% 10% 9% 23% 23%
Do not know 17% 12% 23% 37% 3% 13% 14% 8% 11% 23% 13%
Use the recommended
quantities or less 51% 58% 35% 35% 59% 59% 60% 74% 67% 33% 46%
No, i use more product than
what is recommended 17% 14% 18% 12% 27% 18% 16% 9% 13% 22% 18%
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There are no recommendations
regarding quantities for the
product you are using
16% 17% 24% 16% 11% 11% 9% 10% 9% 23% 23%
Do not know 17% 12% 23% 37% 3% 13% 14% 8% 11% 23% 13%
Nearly half of the respondents (45%) respect the recommended quantities when using hairspray.
There are more people who use more hairspray than recommended (17%) than those who use
smaller quantities (6%).
Compared to other product classes, there are more people who declare there are no
recommendations regarding quantities for the hairspray they are using (16%).
Users in Spain are more likely than those in other countries (27%) to use more hairspray than is
recommended.
Most frequently used brands
Q.157.a. Which of the following hairsprays do you use most at your home ? (up to 3 answers possible)
1333
L’Oréal 23%
Wella 20%
Taft 17%
Among the different brands of hairspray, L’Oréal is the most frequently used one (23%), followed by
Wella a(20%) and Taft (17%).
Quantities of product used
Q.158. How much hairspray do you use on one occasion? (only one answer possible)
N= 1333
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1333 120 113 147 150 128 195 91 99 200 90
1-2 seconds 21% 23% 13% 20% 23% 16% 31% 23% 24% 25% 11%
3-4 seconds 47% 48% 49% 40% 55% 49% 50% 54% 45% 41% 50%
5-6 seconds 21% 23% 23% 22% 15% 24% 15% 19% 25% 22% 26%
7-8 seconds 5% 5% 9% 9% 3% 2% 4% 3% 2% 6% 8%
9-10 seconds 2% 1% 4% 4% 1% 2% 1% 1% 2% 5% 3%
More than 10 seconds 2% 1% 3% 4% 2% 5% 1% - 1% 3% 2%
1-2 seconds 21% 23% 13% 20% 23% 16% 31% 23% 24% 25% 11%
3-6 seconds 69% 70% 72% 63% 71% 73% 65% 73% 71% 62% 76%
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7-10 seconds 8% 6% 12% 13% 5% 5% 4% 4% 4% 11% 11%
More than 10 seconds 2% 1% 3% 4% 2% 5% 1% - 1% 3% 2%
Mean 4,02 3,80 4,47 4,47 3,73 4,33 3,40 3,61 3,80 4,14 4,48
Regarding quantities, most users spray between three and six seconds (69%).
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135
3.15 Spray deodorants
Across the 10 countries where the survey took place, 60% of the people have used spray deodorants
during the 6 months before the survey.
Use frequency
Q.159. How often do you use spray deodorant at your home ? (only one answer possible)
N= 1503
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1503 120 136 203 179 157 202 107 104 184 111
At least once a day 70% 81% 80% 66% 82% 59% 81% 56% 69% 48% 82%
Several times a week 15% 15% 13% 13% 8% 21% 13% 21% 17% 19% 10%
Once a week 4% 2% 4% 6% 4% 6% 1% 7% 4% 5% 4%
Once every two weeks 1% 2% - 2% 2% 1% 1% - 3% 2% -
Once a month 1% - - 2% 1% 2% % 1% 1% 3% -
Less than once a month 5% 1% 2% 7% 2% 4% 2% 7% 4% 15% 4%
Do not know 3% - 1% 3% 1% 6% 1% 7% 2% 8% 1%
Daily 70% 81% 80% 66% 82% 59% 81% 56% 69% 48% 82%
Weekly 19% 17% 17% 19% 13% 27% 14% 29% 21% 24% 14%
Monthly 2% 2% - 4% 2% 3% 1% 1% 4% 5% -
Less than once a month 5% 1% 2% 7% 2% 4% 2% 7% 4% 15% 4%
Do not know 3% - 1% 3% 1% 6% 1% 7% 2% 8% 1%
At least once a week 90% 97% 97% 85% 95% 86% 96% 85% 90% 72% 95%
At least once a month 92% 99% 97% 90% 97% 89% 97% 86% 94% 77% 95%
Less than once a month 5% 1% 2% 7% 2% 4% 2% 7% 4% 15% 4%
Do not know 3% - 1% 3% 1% 6% 1% 7% 2% 8% 1%
The majority (70%) use spray deodorants daily. Nearly a fifth (19%) only use these weekly.
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136
Time of day when the product is used
Q.160. When do you normally use spray deodorant ? (several answers possible)
N= 1503
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1503 120 136 203 179 157 202 107 104 184 111
Mostly in the morning (between 6am
and 12am) 64% 63% 72% 68% 64% 52% 68% 44% 60% 67% 81%
Mostly in the evening (between 6pm
and 12pm) 10% 7% 11% 10% 7% 13% 5% 12% 14% 13% 6%
Mostly in the afternoon (between 12am
and 6pm) 9% 10% 11% 4% 11% 13% 4% 18% 13% 4% 6%
Mostly in the night (between 12pm and
6am) 1% 1% - 2% 2% - - 2% - 1% 1%
At any time, no specific moment 26% 33% 23% 23% 26% 34% 27% 32% 32% 25% 13%
Similarly to hairsprays, the products are mostly used in the morning (64%). Very few are those who
use them in the evening (10%) or in the afternoon (9%).
Room where the product is used
Q.161. In which room(s) do you normally use spray deodorant ? (several answers possible)
N= 1503
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1503 120 136 203 179 157 202 107 104 184 111
Bathroom 72% 82% 82% 79% 69% 52% 78% 71% 86% 72% 44%
Bedroom 22% 19% 13% 15% 32% 21% 13% 26% 17% 12% 63%
WC 18% 7% 15% 19% 17% 36% 8% 21% 12% 38% 7%
Living/dining room 12% 13% 8% 5% 13% 25% 9% 23% 15% 3% 12%
Hallway 9% 14% 7% 5% 9% 16% 2% 16% 14% 3% 4%
Kitchen 5% 3% 3% 2% 4% 11% 1% 18% 2% 2% 2%
Closet/Storage room 3% 5% 1% 2% 8% 6% % 7% - 1% 3%
Other room in the house 4% 3% 4% 5% 7% 6% 2% 7% 1% 5% 2%
Spray deodorants are more often used in the bathroom (72%) than they are in other places in the
house such as the bedroom (22%), WC (18%) or living room (12%).
Respondents in the UK are by far the most likely to use the product in the bedroom (63%).
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137
Protection measures
Avoiding contact with the product
Q.162.1. How, if at all, do you protect yourself when using spray deodorant ? I avoid getting the product in
contact with my eyes or mouth (only one answer possible)
N= 1503
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1503 120 136 203 179 157 202 107 104 184 111
Always 87% 94% 91% 92% 88% 88% 74% 87% 89% 79% 86%
Sometimes 4% 1% 2% 3% 6% 5% 1% 7% 7% 5% 5%
Never 9% 5% 7% 4% 6% 7% 25% 7% 4% 16% 10%
As a first protection measure, most users (87%) avoid getting the product in contact with their eyes
or mouth.
Avoiding using the product in combination with other products
Q.162.2. How, if at all, do you protect yourself when using spray deodorant ? I avoid using the product in
combination with other products (only one answer possible)
N= 1503
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1503 120 136 203 179 157 202 107 104 184 111
Always 58% 52% 57% 52% 60% 75% 61% 68% 64% 42% 54%
Sometimes 19% 27% 21% 24% 20% 10% 7% 21% 25% 17% 19%
Never 23% 22% 21% 24% 20% 15% 31% 11% 11% 41% 27%
Users tend to avoid using spray deodrants in combination with other products (58% say always, with
a further 19% saying sometimes).
Room ventilation
Q.162.3. How, if at all, do you protect yourself when using spray deodorant ? I ventilate the room (only one
answer possible)
N= 1503
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1503 120 136 203 179 157 202 107 104 184 111
Always 25% 14% 32% 24% 26% 35% 29% 37% 19% 17% 22%
Sometimes 29% 37% 28% 30% 26% 28% 27% 34% 40% 18% 27%
Never 46% 49% 40% 46% 49% 37% 44% 29% 40% 65% 51%
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138
Most of them however (46%) don’t ventilate the room when using the product; only 25% ventilate
regularly. Users in Italy and France are more likely to ventilate (37% and 35% respectively) compared
to those in other countries.
Q.163. Which of the following statements best describe how you ventilate the room when using a spray
deodorant ? (several answers possible)
N= 811
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
811 61 81 109 92 99 113 76 62 64 54
I open the window(s) 72% 61% 81% 67% 73% 77% 68% 75% 73% 55% 81%
I open the indoor door(s) 34% 51% 25% 25% 37% 29% 42% 34% 35% 33% 41%
I open the outdoor door(s) 8% 5% - 9% 10% 9% 12% 11% 16% 5% 7%
I use an electric in built fan/ventilation
system 5% 3% 4% 6% - 7% 3% 1% 11% 16% 6%
I use a mechanical (rotary) fan 3% 2% 2% 4% 5% 5% 2% - 3% 3% 4%
I ventilate in another way 4% 2% 4% 12% 1% 5% 2% 3% 2% 14% -
Among those who do ventilate, most do it by opening the window (72%). Similar to use habits for
hairsprays, an important proportion ventilate by opening the indoor door (34%).
Q.164. When do you ventilate the room ? (only one answer possible)
N= 811
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
811 61 81 109 92 99 113 76 62 64 54
I ventilate the room during the
use of the product 33% 38% 33% 28% 34% 26% 32% 33% 23% 38% 50%
I ventilate the room during the
use of the product and for less
than 15 minutes afterwards
23% 18% 19% 20% 25% 23% 24% 29% 27% 23% 20%
I ventilate the room during the
use of the product and for at
least 15 minutes afterwards
21% 16% 21% 23% 30% 25% 18% 21% 19% 16% 19%
I do not ventilate the room
during the use of the product
but I do it for less than 15
minutes afterwards
16% 21% 22% 18% 8% 16% 20% 12% 23% 5% 7%
I do not ventilate the room
during the use of the product
but I do it for at least 15
minutes afterwards
7% 7% 5% 10% 3% 9% 6% 5% 8% 19% 4%
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Ventilate during the use of the
product 77% 72% 73% 72% 89% 75% 73% 83% 69% 77% 89%
ventilate after the use of the
product 23% 28% 27% 28% 11% 25% 27% 17% 31% 23% 11%
Even though the majority ventilate while using the product - or during and after (77%) an significant
proportion (23%) ventilate only after having used it.
Most frequently used brands
Q.165.a. Which of the following spray deodorants do you use most ? (up to 3 answers possible)
N= 1503
All
1503
Rexona 26%
Nivea 23%
Dove 21%
Across the 10 countries, Rexona is the most frequently used brand of spray deodorants (26%). Other
popular brands are Nivea (23%), and Dove (21%).
Quantities of product used
Q.166. How much spray deodorant do you use on one occasion? (only one answer possible)
N= 1503
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1503 120 136 203 179 157 202 107 104 184 111
1-2 seconds 49% 53% 42% 50% 42% 45% 65% 49% 36% 58% 40%
3-4 seconds 40% 34% 42% 42% 45% 40% 30% 41% 55% 34% 42%
5-6 seconds 8% 10% 10% 5% 11% 13% 3% 7% 9% 7% 11%
7-8 seconds 2% 1% 3% 2% 1% 1% 1% 1% - 1% 6%
9-10 seconds 1% 1% 2% % - 1% % 2% 1% - 1%
More than 10 seconds % 1% 1% % 1% - - - - 1% -
1-2 seconds 49% 53% 42% 50% 42% 45% 65% 49% 36% 58% 40%
3-6 seconds 49% 44% 51% 47% 56% 53% 33% 49% 63% 41% 53%
7-10 seconds 2% 2% 5% 2% 1% 2% 1% 3% 1% 1% 7%
More than 10 seconds % 1% 1% % 1% - - - - 1% -
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140
Mean 2,85 2,78 3,22 2,74 2,99 2,95 2,32 2,83 3,02 2,54 3,23
When using these deodorants, most users spray for one to two seconds (49%) or between three and
four seconds (40%).
The average time for spraying is 2.9 seconds.
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141
3.16 Perfumes
Perfumes are among the products with the highest penetration rates, as 72% of the respondents
across all countries declare having used them in the last 6 months.
Use frequency
Q.167. How often do you use perfume at your home ? (only one answer possible)
N= 1507
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1507 120 130 209 178 164 201 108 104 184 109
At least once a day 53% 71% 46% 48% 49% 49% 66% 50% 63% 39% 52%
Several times a week 26% 17% 36% 27% 28% 18% 24% 29% 20% 34% 24%
Once a week 9% 7% 12% 5% 10% 11% 5% 7% 8% 13% 13%
Once every two weeks 3% 2% 2% 7% 3% 4% 1% 4% 2% 4% 3%
Once a month 2% 1% 3% 2% 3% 2% % 1% 2% 3% 3%
Less than once a month 4% 3% 1% 5% 2% 12% 1% 4% 2% 5% 6%
Do not know 3% 1% 1% 6% 6% 5% 1% 6% 4% 2% -
Daily 53% 71% 46% 48% 49% 49% 66% 50% 63% 39% 52%
Weekly 35% 23% 48% 32% 38% 29% 29% 36% 28% 47% 37%
Monthly 5% 3% 5% 9% 6% 6% 1% 5% 4% 7% 6%
Less than once a month 4% 3% 1% 5% 2% 12% 1% 4% 2% 5% 6%
Do not know 3% 1% 1% 6% 6% 5% 1% 6% 4% 2% -
At least once a week 88% 94% 94% 80% 87% 77% 96% 86% 90% 86% 89%
At least once a month 93% 97% 98% 89% 93% 84% 97% 91% 94% 92% 94%
Less than once a month 4% 3% 1% 5% 2% 12% 1% 4% 2% 5% 6%
Do not know 3% 1% 1% 6% 6% 5% 1% 6% 4% 2% -
Half of them use the product daily (53%), while a further third (35%) use them weekly – meaning 88%
use perfumes at least once a week.
Chapter 3 Survey results
142
Time of day when the product is used
Q.168. When do you normally use perfume ? (several answers possible)
N= 1507
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1507 120 130 209 178 164 201 108 104 184 109
Mostly in the morning (between 6am
and 12am) 58% 53% 64% 62% 46% 53% 69% 57% 52% 59% 57%
Mostly in the evening (between 6pm
and 12pm) 14% 8% 15% 20% 14% 9% 5% 22% 14% 17% 12%
Mostly in the afternoon (between 12am
and 6pm) 9% 9% 8% 6% 8% 12% 5% 16% 13% 8% 6%
Mostly in the night (between 12pm and
6am) 1% 1% - % 5% 2% - - - 1% 1%
At any time, no specific moment 29% 37% 25% 25% 37% 32% 26% 21% 37% 27% 30%
Perfumes are mostly used in the morning (58%) rather than at other times of the day; 29% declare
using them at any time of the day.
Room where the product is used
Q.169. In which room(s) do you normally use perfumes ? (several answers possible)
N= 1507
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1507 120 130 209 178 164 201 108 104 184 109
Bathroom 64% 68% 72% 71% 52% 55% 66% 80% 70% 69% 28%
Bedroom 30% 27% 16% 26% 52% 20% 22% 32% 23% 19% 76%
Living/dining room 17% 18% 13% 5% 28% 35% 18% 22% 17% 7% 17%
WC 13% 6% 10% 14% 12% 23% 2% 19% 6% 27% 6%
Hallway 6% 8% 5% 3% 12% 5% 5% 6% 13% 5% 3%
Kitchen 6% 3% 4% 3% 11% 14% 1% 14% 5% 2% 2%
Closet/Storage room 3% 5% 1% 1% 7% 2% - 6% 1% 4% 1%
Other room in the house 4% 3% 5% 5% 7% 5% 1% 4% 1% 2% -
Most people use perfumes in the bathroom (64%). However, compared to other cosmetic products
(hairspray, spray deodorants), a larger proportion (30%) use them in the bedroom.
Users in the UK are the most inclined to use perfumes in the bedroom (76%).
Chapter 3 Survey results
143
Protection measures
Avoiding contact with the product
Q.170.1. How, if at all, do you protect yourself when using perfumes ? I avoid getting the product in contact
with my eyes or mouth (only one answer possible)
N= 1507
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1507 120 130 209 178 164 201 108 104 184 109
Always 88% 92% 86% 89% 90% 90% 80% 91% 88% 85% 87%
Sometimes 5% 3% 5% 5% 4% 4% % 4% 9% 5% 6%
Never 8% 5% 8% 6% 6% 5% 19% 6% 4% 10% 7%
As with most products, users avoid getting perfumes in contact with their eyes or mouth (88%).
Avoiding using the product in combination with other products
Q.170.2. How, if at all, do you protect yourself when using perfumes ? I avoid using the product in
combination with other products (only one answer possible)
N= 1507
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1507 120 130 209 178 164 201 108 104 184 109
Always 59% 57% 58% 49% 62% 73% 65% 74% 63% 47% 49%
Sometimes 20% 27% 15% 29% 21% 11% 9% 16% 22% 17% 28%
Never 21% 17% 27% 22% 17% 16% 25% 10% 14% 36% 24%
Three in five (59%) always avoid combining them with other products.
Room ventilation
Q.170.3. How, if at all, do you protect yourself when using perfumes ? I ventilate the room (only one answer
possible)
N= 1507
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1507 120 130 209 178 164 201 108 104 184 109
Always 20% 18% 20% 26% 20% 27% 23% 24% 13% 13% 17%
Sometimes 27% 36% 25% 30% 24% 29% 25% 31% 33% 18% 22%
Never 53% 46% 55% 44% 56% 44% 52% 44% 55% 68% 61%
Among those who use perfumes, most (53%) do not ventilate the room when using the product. Only
20% always ventilate .
Chapter 3 Survey results
144
Q.171. Which of the following statements best describe how you ventilate the room when using perfume ?
(several answers possible)
N= 714
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
714 65 59 117 78 92 96 60 47 58 42
I open the window(s) 70
%
69
%
86
%
70
%
67
%
68
%
75
%
78
%
74
%
50
%
52
%
I open the indoor door(s) 34
%
34
%
31
%
36
%
37
%
32
%
35
%
27
%
34
%
34
%
48
%
I open the outdoor door(s) 7% 5% - 11
% 6%
15
% 9% 3% 4% 3% 5%
I use an electric in built fan/ventilation
system 4% 6% 3% 5% 4% 1% 1% 2% 4%
17
% 2%
I use a mechanical (rotary) fan 2% 2% - 1% - 2% 2% 7% 2% 2% -
I ventilate in another way 6% 5% 7% 10
% 4% 3% 4% - 4%
14
% 5%
Perfume users who ventilate mostly do it by opening the window (70%), although, in line with habits
related to other cosmetics (hairsprays and deodorants) an important proportion (34%) do it by
opening the indoor door.
Q.172. When do you ventilate the room ? (only one answer possible)
N= 714
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
714 65 59 117 78 92 96 60 47 58 42
I ventilate the room during the
use of the product 35% 35% 29% 40% 28% 37% 27% 42% 30% 41% 38%
I ventilate the room during the
use of the product and for less
than 15 minutes afterwards
21% 23% 20% 16% 28% 20% 22% 17% 21% 21% 24%
I ventilate the room during the
use of the product and for at
least 15 minutes afterwards
19% 17% 19% 19% 23% 20% 22% 17% 19% 17% 21%
I do not ventilate the room
during the use of the product
but I do it for less than 15
minutes afterwards
18% 18% 22% 11% 14% 16% 25% 22% 19% 14% 17%
I do not ventilate the room
during the use of the product
but I do it for at least 15
7% 6% 10% 14% 6% 8% 4% 3% 11% 7% -
Chapter 3 Survey results
145
minutes afterwards
Ventilate during the use of the
product 75% 75% 68% 75% 79% 76% 71% 75% 70% 79% 83%
Ventilate after the use of the
product 25% 25% 32% 25% 21% 24% 29% 25% 30% 21% 17%
Users who ventilate mostly do it during the use of the product (75%), although a quarter (25%) do it
only once the product has been used.
Most frequently used brands
Q.173.a. Which of the following perfumes(sprays) do you use most ? (up to 3 answers possible)
N= 1507
All
1507
Hugo Boss 12%
Adidas 12%
Calvin Klein 10%
Among the different brands of perfumes, the most frequently used are Hugo Boss (12%), Adidas
(12%) and Calvin Klein (10%).
Quantities of product used
Q.174. How much perfume do you use on one occasion? (only one answer possible)
N= 1507
All CZ DE DK ES FR HU IT PL SE UK
1507 120 130 209 178 164 201 108 104 184 109
1 spraying 24% 27% 23% 32% 19% 22% 18% 29% 13% 32% 25%
2 sprayings 43% 43% 45% 42% 43% 38% 45% 44% 44% 43% 41%
3 sprayings 21% 18% 23% 14% 22% 32% 22% 18% 31% 15% 23%
4 sprayings 7% 11% 5% 7% 11% 5% 10% 6% 8% 5% 6%
5 sprayings 2% 1% 2% 2% 1% 2% 3% 1% 4% 3% 3%
More than 5 sprayings 2% 1% 2% 2% 4% 1% 1% 3% 1% 1% 3%
1 spraying 24% 27% 23% 32% 19% 22% 18% 29% 13% 32% 25%
2 to 3 sprayings 64% 61% 68% 56% 65% 70% 68% 61% 75% 59% 64%
4 to 5 sprayings 10% 12% 7% 10% 12% 7% 13% 7% 12% 9% 8%
Chapter 3 Survey results
146
More than 5 sprayings 2% 1% 2% 2% 4% 1% 1% 3% 1% 1% 3%
Mean 2,26 2,19 2,22 2,11 2,44 2,32 2,39 2,16 2,49 2,06 2,28
Regarding quantities, for most users (64%) this amounts to two to three sprayings, while 24% only
spray once.
3.17 .
Conclusion
147
CONCLUSION
When it comes to product use across the 10 countries, cleaning products (all purpose
cleaners, bathroom cleaners, glass and window cleaners, kitchen cleaners), along with
perfumes, have the highest penetration rates. In contrast, certain types of air fresheners
(combustible, electric, passive), as well as coating products and floor polish, are the least
used across the ten countries.
People select products mainly based on their price and efficiency, while aspects such as
product safety, advertising or product label matter less. Price is more important in Eastern
and Southern Europe, while people in Northern Europe are more concerned for the
environment than those in other regions.
Certain cleaning products such as all purpose cleaners, kitchen cleaners, bathroom cleaners
and floor cleaners are generally used on a weekly basis, while certain cosmetics (spray
deodorants, perfumes) are more likely to be used daily. Products such as glass and window
cleaners, insecticides, coating products or furniture polish are less frequently used.
Cleaning products are used either in the morning or in the afternoon, while insecticides are
often used in the evenings. Air fresheners are used at any time of the day, except for the
combustible ones, which are mainly used in the evenings. Cosmetic products, whether
hairspray, deodorants or perfumes, are mainly used in the mornings.
People tend to use cleaning products mainly in the kitchen or the bathrooms. For air
fresheners, habits vary by the different type of products, as spray air fresheners and passive
air fresheners are mainly used in bathrooms, while combustible and electric air fresheners
are more often used in living rooms and bedrooms. As for cosmetics, these are mostly used
in the bathroom.
When it comes to protection measures, most people tend not to wear gloves when using any
of the products. Wearing gloves is slightly more common in Southern Europe, particularly
when using cleaning products (all purpose cleaners, kitchen cleaners, floor cleaners,
bathroom cleaners), as well as insecticides and coating products.
Conclusion
148
Most people avoid combining the different products. They are, however, more likely to use
different air fresheners simultaneously (particularly those who use electric air fresheners and
passive air fresheners).
Half of the users always ventilate when using all purpose cleaners, kitchen cleaners, glass and
window cleaners and bathroom cleaners. Slightly more people ventilate when using floor
polish and insecticides. Ventilation is mainly done either during or during and after the use of
the product, rather than only after the product was used.
Most people read the instructions before using a product each time. This varies by product
class, as, for products such as hairspray, glass and window cleaners, spray air fresheners and
combustible air fresheners, users are slightly less inclined to read instructions.
Other use habits, such as dilution, vary by product class (people are more likely to dilute all
purpose cleaners and floor cleaners), as well as by region (diluting is more common in
Southern Europe than in other regions).
People are more likely to rinse the surface where the product was used when using kitchen
cleaners and bathroom cleaners, and less when using glass and window cleaners. Again, this
practice is more current in Southern Europe than elsewhere.