Businesses from across the UK have once again put their washrooms under the spotlight, with new figures from the 2025 Loo of the Year Awards showing a sharp rise in first time entrants and a clear push on improving standards.

Run by businesswoman Becky Wall BEM, the scheme has spent almost four decades celebrating excellence in ‘away from home’ washroom facilities.

“Our mission is to celebrate and recognise good, great, outstanding and exceptional washrooms across the UK,” Becky said. “When people are choosing where to spend their time and money, they notice the small things. Clean, well designed and properly maintained facilities are part of a positive experience, whether you are a customer, a visitor or a member of staff.”

Annually, all entrants agree to an unannounced visit from an independent inspector. Each washroom is judged on 101 criteria which cover cleanliness, décor, signage, accessibility and customer care before a grade is awarded.

Almost 1,500 organisations from across the UK entered the scheme this year, with a 48 per cent increase in new entrants compared to 2024. Several sectors saw striking growth, with restaurant entries up by 600 per cent, office entries increasing by 400 per cent, conference and banqueting venues up by 340 per cent, adult education providers up by 220 per cent, railway station entries rising by 78 per cent and motorway services up by 17 per cent.

“We always see some movement between categories but this year those shifts are really clear,” Becky said. “It tells us more organisations want independent feedback and are open to improving what they offer when it comes to washroom facilities.”

The latest grading results show more venues are reaching the highest levels. Platinum remains the most common grade at 52.4 per cent, slightly up on last year’s 51.8 per cent. Platinum Plus has risen from 26.1 per cent to 29.2 per cent and Diamond, the top level, has grown from 3.5 per cent to 5.8 per cent.

There have also been notable rises in two key areas of hygiene inclusivity. There has been a 32 per cent increase in certificates awarded for period dignity in 2025 and a 44 per cent increase in Platinum Plus awards for Changing Places facilities.

“These are the areas that make a real difference to people’s daily lives,” Becky said. “Growing recognition for period dignity and Changing Places shows that more organisations are thinking about everyone who may need to use their facilities, not just the majority. This is about doing the right thing all year round, not just on the day of inspection.

After months of inspections and grading, the Loo of the Year Awards team will bring entrants together for their annual day of celebration in January 2026, sponsored by global professional hygiene brand Tork. The event will also raise money for Crohn’s & Colitis UK and trophies will be presented to those offering the most outstanding washrooms and customer service. For more information visit Loo of the year