Millions of Aussies have admitted they don’t always wash their hands after going to the bathroom, including 13 per cent of men and 11 per cent of women after defecating.

The concerning data also revealed 28 per cent of men surveyed and 18 per cent of women also said they did not wash their hands after urinating, the study from the Food Safety Information Council revealed.

Lydia Butchmann, CEO of the Council, said the results were worrying, highlighting the consequences such habits and actions can cause to everyone.

“The survey came up with some interesting (and disturbing) results,” she said.

“28 per cent of men and 18 per cent of women surveyed said they didn’t always wash their hands after a pee.

“But this is essential as toilets and bathrooms are also one of the favourite locations for harmful bacteria to hang out.

“Of even more concern, 13 per cent of men and 11 per cent of women said they didn’t always wash their hands after a poo.”

Butchmann said the risk of these habits was compounded given almost half of all Aussies also admitted to another startling habit that also poses a huge health risk.

“If you don’t wash your hands after going to the toilet you will be spreading the risk of diseases, especially as 43 per cent of men and 49 per cent of women surveyed also admitted that they didn’t always wash their hands before handling food,” she said.

The Food Safety Information Council’s advice is to always wash and dry your hands: