What tasks are spring cleaners itching to tackle? Windows, blinds and curtains, and clothing, closets and drawers are at the top of the list, according to the 2013 ACI Spring Cleaning Survey

Spring cleaning is still a tradition for many Americans – 62 percent of those surveyed say spring cleaning is an annual ritual in their home. According to new research from ACI, 73 percent of those who spring clean strongly or somewhat agree that it’s a tradition worth keeping. But 13 percent of this group (18% of men, 8% of women) strongly or somewhat agree that if it wasn’t for spring cleaning, they would probably never clean their home!

An overwhelming number of students (89%) aged 8-17 say they always wash their hands after going to the bathroom at school. But time constraints, a lack of cleanliness and a shortage of supplies are among the major barriers to students washing their hands at school more often. These findings are from an online survey of children aged 8-17 and of parents of children within that age group conducted for the American Cleaning Institute.

If it’s spring, Generation Y may very well be at home – cleaning. According to new research from the American Cleaning Institute® (ACI – www.cleaninginstitute.org), 82 percent of Generation Y men and women (our nation’s 18-29 year olds) will engage in spring cleaning this year – that’s approximately 15 percent more than the national average of about two-thirds (based on past ACI surveys).

A new poll finds that the vast majority of Americans uses antibacterial soap and finds it to be a useful tool to prevent the spread of germs. And two-thirds of Americans would be “angry” at any government attempts to ban the products. The poll, released by the American Cleaning Institute and the Personal Care Products Council, reports that 83% of consumers should have the choice as to whether or not to purchase these products.