Research shows that, in combination with schooling on hygiene habits, the Tippy Tap is more effective than other interventions. Several studies confirm the positive impact this device had on communities. In communities that use the Tippy Tap, rates of handwashing with soap increased, especially in children. And follow up research has established that the hands-free taps are still being used months later.

Various organisations from different sectors have been using the Tippy Tap. WaterAid, who focuses on access to clean water, decent toilets and hygiene help people integrate Tippy Taps into their everyday life. EduKaid, who aims to improve education in rural Tanzania, uses glitter when teaching children about the hands-free device. The glitter represents bacteria that, although you can’t see it, is difficult to get rid of. Although CoolEarth works in the environmental sector they also implement the Tippy Tap because “healthy families mean healthy forests.”

Check out tippytap.org for a great manual on how to build your own or look at the different pamphlets, posters (in various languages) and accommodating hand washing songs they have to help NGOs and non-profit organisations to implement this intervention.