Picture this, you’re out for lunch and on your way to meet a friend. All of a sudden you want to pee. As a germaphobe, you would want to avoid that but only this time, you cannot control your bladder anymore. So, your last resort is using a public washroom. Been there? We bet it must have happened to you a thousand times.
Everyone needs to use public restrooms, but it’s no secret that these spaces are frequently breeding grounds for bacteria and other microorganisms. As a matter of fact, research has revealed that bacteria persist in toilets even after they have been regularly cleaned and flushed.
When using a public restroom, it’s critical to practise good hygiene to lower your chance of coming into contact with these potentially dangerous microorganisms. You may not realise how harmful public washrooms can be. If you don’t, let’s tell you some startling facts.
- A typical toilet seat carries 50 microorganisms per square inch!
- Harmful bacteria can travel up to 10 inches above the toilet seat with just one flush!
- Over 1 million harmful bacteria stay alive even after a toilet is flushed!
These concerning figures emphasise how crucial it is to practise good toilet hygiene in order to stop the spread of pathogenic bacteria and germs.
In this article, we will talk about easy and efficient toilet hygiene maintenance that you can use when you use public washrooms. By following these suggestions, you can lessen the possibility of illness and germs spreading from your clean and hygienic restroom facilities.
Tip #1: Shut the toilet lid
Scientists have found that closing the lid before flushing can drastically cut down on the number of germs that spread. Research indicates that using a toilet without a cover while flushing can spread bacteria up to 10 inches above the seat. After then, these microorganisms may land on surfaces and get on your hands, thereby infecting you. It’s crucial to constantly close the lid before flushing in order to shield oneself from these dangerous microorganisms.
Tip #2: Opt for an Indian-seat toilet
The probability of getting infected with germs and bacteria is higher in western toilets. Try to avoid using western style toilets to avoid any direct contact with the toilet surfaces. If you are unable to locate one, make sure you wipe the toilet seat before sitting on it or hover over it without making any contact with your skin.
Tip #3: Use toilet seat sanitisers
Toilet seats are one of the dirtiest surfaces in a restroom and can harbour infectious germs and bacteria. Fortunately, there’s a simple and effective solution to ensure that toilet seats are clean and hygienic: using toilet seat sanitisers to lower your chance of coming into contact with dangerous bacteria and germs. Additionally, utilising a toilet seat cleaning can aid in limiting the transmission of germs throughout the bathroom, therefore encouraging improved general hygiene.
Tip#4: Never use the jet
Some public restrooms have jet features, also called bidets, which are designed to clean the surrounding area after a user uses the restroom. Nevertheless, studies have revealed that rather than getting rid of bacteria and germs, these jets can actively spread them. It’s advisable to use regular toilet paper rather than the jet function in public restrooms.
Tip #5: Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water
Your most effective defence against bacteria and germs is frequent hand washing with soap. Thus, properly scrub your hands with soap for at least 20 seconds, and then give them a thorough rinse. An automatic faucet is the greatest solution, but in the absence of one, shut off the water with a paper towel, if one is available.
Tip #6: Make use of the hand dryer.
Before exiting the restroom, make sure to use the hand dryer. When your hands are not adequately air dried, germs grow there and eventually get you ill.
Tip#7: Refrain from touching the doorknob.
Avoid using your bare hands to grab the toilet handle. Doorknobs can spread disease-causing bacteria from a number of sources. Try holding the knob with tissue paper from the outside and the inside before going in or out.
Tip#8: Handle your belongings with care.
Take care of your personal belongings. Although germs on your hands are easily removed with water, they could still infect you if they get on your belongings, such as your phone or purse. Handbags should be hanging on the hook behind the entrance rather than being placed on the ground.
Closing thoughts
It makes sense to worry about the safety and hygienic conditions of public restroom seating. Considering how frequently they are used, it’s possible that they aren’t always well cleaned. However, you can safeguard yourself and lower your risk of sickness by following a few simple but crucial steps. With these basic tips, going to public bathrooms can be a lot safer and lower your risk of sickness.
