How to protect yourself from bacteria in public toilets: 7 safety rules

There’s even the term “toilet plume” – the so-called scattering of microscopic particles as a result of toilet flushing. According to studies, the bacteria “fly” a meter above the seat and cover everything around it.

You don’t know what other people are doing in public restrooms or how often they are cleaned. But it is in your power to follow seven steps that will help you avoid encountering viruses and germs.

You will have to touch many objects that can be contaminated with germs – doorknobs, faucets, soap dispensers. Use handkerchiefs to protect your palms – always carry them with you in your purse. Do you remember how toilet paper sold out instantly at the start of the pandemic? This happened precisely because people used it as a barrier between the skin and a potentially dangerous surface where viruses could be located.

The longer you stay in the toilet, the more likely you are to encounter viruses or bacteria, so get out as soon as possible. That doesn’t mean you can skip washing or drying your hands, but don’t hang around the bathroom waiting for your girlfriends, and don’t fix your hair when it’s not necessary.

It will protect you from the toilet plume, as well as the germs that other people spread – by coughing, sneezing or talking. You can remove the mask immediately after leaving the toilet: immediately throw away the disposable, wash the reusable at home.

The most effective way to rid them of bacterial viruses is to wash them with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. If that’s not possible, use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol – this works less well, but it’s better than nothing.

Do not use hot-air dryers: studies have shown that they can spread viruses and bacteria that have entered appliances from the hands of infected people. However, if you do not have a handkerchief or paper towel, it is better to use such a “hair dryer” than to leave the toilet with wet hands.

It will be useful for you to open the door of the toilets when you leave them.

After that, a lot of bacteria will remain on it, because you will wash your hands, but not the device. From the phone, microbes can get on the hands, and from them – on the mucous membrane, and hello disease!

Also read: Why there is such a big gap under the door of public toilets – you will be surprised when you find out!