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Common Sense Tips For Public Restroom Germ Protection

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By Larry Jackson


If you conducted a survey and asked participants where they are apt to pick up the most germs, the majority of them would say public restrooms. They aren't entirely wrong because bacteria loves organic waste and moisture. The threat of an STD, which concerns many, is fairly low however. These kinds of viruses don't live long outside the human body. You have a much better chance of getting salmonella or shigellosis from touching faucets and door handles. Public restroom germ protection is possible though, it you follow some common sense rules.

The importance of washing your hands cannot be overstated. It's hard to believe, but only about two thirds of patrons of communal bathrooms actually use soap and water after exiting the stalls. Drying your hands thoroughly can be as important as washing them. Bacteria can live on in moist palms. Air dryers often don't completely remove moisture, so paper towels are your best bet.

If you have ever used a communal bathroom, only to come out of the stall and find there are no paper towels or soap, you know how irritating something like that is. It's also unsanitary. Checking when you first enter a bathroom is the best idea. That way you can leave and flag down a manager or waiter to ask that the supplies be replenished.

There are actually people who have studied which stall is the best to use in a communal bathroom. It turns out that you should pick the one nearest the door, if possible. For some reason, people tend to pass this one by, so it tends to stay cleaner and better supplied.

If you are like most public bathroom patrons, sitting directly on the toilet seat is unacceptable. Hovering solves the problem unless that is something you find difficult to do. If the stall has a toilet liner dispenser, you could use it. For those who hate to depend on a communal toilet having liners, bringing your own in a purse or tote is a good option.

There are actually individuals who go into public bathrooms in their bare feet or wearing only flimsy flip flops. Not only is this disgusting, it can be harmful to your health. Toilets are flushed. The floors may only be mopped once a day, if then. Wearing real shoes, not sandals, will protect you from the bacteria on the floor.

If possible use your elbow instead of your hand to raise and lower door handles. Handles can be loaded with bacteria, so they are never really safe to touch. If you use your hand to turn on the sink faucet, turn it off with a paper towel instead of your washed hand. Keeping hand sanitizer in your purse is a great idea. It will provide you with an extra layer of protection.

Most people are accustomed to using communal restrooms. They are generally safe unless they are obviously dirty. No matter how clean they look, you should take precautions and avoid touching the surfaces. For germaphobes, using the bathroom before you leave the house is the best option.




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