American Restroom Association
We are the American Restroom Association
800-247-3864
Public Restrooms
America faces a critical need for a robust and well-maintained public restroom infrastructure. A strong public restroom infrastructure is vital and would ensure public health by preventing disease, meeting the essential medical needs of all people, and guaranteeing accessibility for everyone. Accessible restrooms foster the freedom to live and travel without restroom stress, ultimately upholding the fundamental human needs for dignity, safety, and belonging in public life.
The Need
Restroom Duress Affects All of Us
We all know the feeling: panic, a stress response, worry for ourselves, child or loved one, or humiliation and shame around having an accident. For many Americans, this isn’t just an occasional inconvenience—it’s a daily struggle.
Many people experience a constant anxiety about finding a restroom during everyday life known as “restroom duress.” This is a term used to describe the challenges and discomfort individuals face when trying to find and use a restroom, particularly when it’s difficult or impossible to do so.
Friends of the ARA
Innovators & Changemakers
We invite you to explore the list of organizations we work alongside to make a difference in communities nationwide in addition to our list of forward thinking industry innovators.
Your State
Code, Legislation, and the Issues
Want to stay informed about restroom-related codes, legislation, and the specific issues impacting your state? Discover how you can become a powerful advocate at the state and local levels, championing better public restroom infrastructure in your own community.
Your Story
Tell us your experiences
Share your restroom experiences with us! Your firsthand accounts of accessibility challenges, cleanliness concerns, and safety issues are invaluable in our advocacy work. We also want to hear your positive stories – have you encountered a truly great public restroom or had a particularly positive experience?
