Discussing restroom cleanliness and toilet etiquette is somewhat an awkward conversation to have with one’s employees. At times though, it’s necessary to discuss. Problems arise and though bathroom cleanliness is a standard any business wants to maintain, sometimes a sensitive, solution-centered discussion needs to happen.

#1 – Writing a short correspondence memo is best

Instead of assembling everyone into a group discussion, sending out a memo is generally the best way to handle such sensitive subject matter. Before you get to writing though, a memo like this is not always needed. For example, let’s say an employee was very sick and had an accident. There’s no need to send out a memo nor create an issue. If it is an ongoing issue requiring address, do so in a way where the employee is not being talked down to. Instead, focus on keeping the shared space sanitary and remind them of the standards you want to uphold.

#2 – Do not call out specific employees

There’s no need to identify specific employees in such an address and doing so only singles them out. Also, if you do have employees with medical conditions or chronic illnesses, these are sensitive subjects that need to be weighed. Criticizing workers who unintentionally made a mess because of their condition can potentially lead to legal consequences you don’t want. Be general in addressing the problem and focus in on the solution.

#3 – Reiterate the need for all employees to keep the office and restrooms clean

If you want to go even more general in your address, share the standards for keeping the entire office clean. For example, there may be additional issues in an office environment related to the kitchen or the microwave. Note these in a more general, all-encompassing memo. Ask your employees to come forward anytime they see something that requires cleaning. Emphasize proper disposal of trash and the cleaning up of one’s spills. By doing this, the culprits who have been getting the restroom less than tidy may feel compelled to be a little cleaner.

#4 – Consider the use of signs in the restroom

The last way to address toilet cleanliness with staff and one of the more popular methods is by using signage. Using positive, even funny language can help remind employees to consider others after finishing their business in the restroom. These simple reminders to keep common spaces clean may seem insulting to some but they go a long way in showing a company’s willingness to keep the environment accommodating for everyone.

Also, to the subject of the washroom, ensure there is enough toilet paper, air freshener spray, and paper towels available for colleagues to keep the space clean. Sometimes, employees won’t feel compelled to keep spaces clean if the supplies aren’t there to do so. By regularly replenishing restroom supplies, it makes sure that employees have the option to keep it tidy. In summation, it’s more than possible to avoid the awkwardness of having to address a toilet issue in a personal in-person conversation. Just follow these steps and be clear on the workplace restroom etiquette you expect.

Genesis Supplies supports toilet cleanliness and restroom etiquette among offices all over Canada and the United States. With more than 15,000 cleaning products to browse, take us up on the selections most appropriate for your office environment. Since 1997, we have helped thousands of offices keep tidy, clean, and sanitary.