Italians are champions of personal hygiene: in Europe we are the ones who wash the most

The Italians confirm themselves as the European champions in terms of personal hygiene. According to an analysis based on Wikipedia data and elaborated by the Geomapped Instagram page, in fact, 95% of the population of the Bel Paese he showers every daya figure that has no equal in the rest of the continent.

Followed by Portuguesewith a percentage between 85% and 94%, while Spaniards and Greeks stand between 75% and 84%. The other European countries, especially the northern ones, see less than 65% of the population practice this daily habit.

But what are the reasons behind this difference? One explanation could be the climate. In Italy, the heat and sweating make a daily shower necessary to feel fresh. In colder countries, however, there is a need to wash every day less heardas you sweat less.

Ode to the bidet

However, the Italian record is not based only on climatic reasons. A crucial element is the bidetan accessory that is omnipresent in Italy and considered essential for personal hygiene, but which in many European countries remains an uncommon curiosity.

The bidet, introduced in Italy centuries ago and now a symbol of a culture attentive to cleanliness, represents a source of national pride. It is interesting to note that in other European nations, despite its lack of use, it has often been argued that the shower could replace it. Yet, the data proves the opposite: in countries where the bidet is absent, so is the habit of washing daily appears less rooted.

During the pandemic, the focus on hygiene is increased everywherebut the Italians already started with an advantage. The culture of frequent hand washing and personal hygiene was already well established. Italians, in fact, stand out for the diligence with which they wash their hands in everyday situations, such as before eating or after using public transport. It is therefore not surprising that they have easily adapted to the new hygiene rules imposed by the health crisis.

While other European countries gradually improve their habits, therefore, Italians continue to hold the record in terms of personal cleanliness. A deep-rooted tradition, supported by the use of the bidet and attention to a daily hygiene routine, which undoubtedly makes us the most “scented” on the continent.