Rise in people in the North East unable to wash their clothes regularly
Millions of people across the UK are thought to be in hygiene poverty
Last updated 9th Apr 2024
There has a rise in the number of people across the North East and Teesside who cannot afford to wash their clothes regularly.
Figures show more than 3-million living in the UK are thought to be experiencing hygiene poverty.
The research reveals laundry detergent is becoming one of the most sought after non-food item at food banks.
Isabelle Parker, project coordinator for the Hygiene Bank in Durham, said: "It's devastating to hear that some people are having to wash their clothes in washing up liquid, because they just can't afford laundry detergent or the cost of running the washing machine is far too high. It's unacceptable that the cost of living has reached this point where people just can't afford basics needs such as washing their clothes.
"We've definitely seen a rise in people not being able to shower or wash their clothes. Our community partners are requesting more essential items such as laundry detergent and body wash, however we're also getting a lot more requests for basic items such as toilet roll and toothpaste.
"We've been hearing that people are not showering or taking extremely cold showers because they simply can't afford their water bills anymore. People are also turning off their central heating or minimising their electricity usage just so they can afford food for their families. Foodbanks and hygiene banks are critical right now.
"With the cost of living on the rise people just can't afford to run their washing machines as they used to. People are now washing their clothes with washing up liquid in the sink or whilst they shower to try and save money in any way they can. Many people are having to sacrifice their clothes just so they can afford electricity or heating for their homes or food for the week.
"Not being able to wash your clothes can make you feel dirty and uncomfortable, leading to extreme poor mental wellbeing along with this it can lead to social isolation. Dirty clothes can be harmful to a person's physical health as well and in some cases make you extremely ill from the dirt and bacteria build up."