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Public restroom facilities can be unsettling environments to navigate. Despite common perceptions, studies indicate that these spaces don't necessarily harbor an unusual abundance of germs. Nevertheless, employing some basic guidelines can minimize your exposure to germs and enhance your comfort in using these facilities.
Guidelines
The Art of Using Public Restrooms
Survey the Options: Upon entering a public restroom, conduct a swift evaluation of available stalls. Opt for the cleanest option, ensuring the toilet is flushed, the seat is dry and debris-free, and essential supplies like toilet paper and seat protectors are available. In cases where some stalls appear visibly dirty or compromised, exercise caution and adhere to safety protocols.
Flushing with Caution
Flush with Care: Flushing public restroom toilets can inadvertently spread bacteria. Take precautions such as using toilet paper to touch the handle and facing away from the toilet when flushing to minimize exposure to germs.
Hand Hygiene: Washing hands thoroughly is crucial in public restrooms, despite the potential germ hotspots like sinks. Use warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds to effectively cleanse hands.
Proper Hand Drying: After washing hands, ensure proper hand drying to prevent germ transfer. If paper towels are available, use them to dry hands and to turn off faucets and open doors. Alternatively, use alcohol-based hand sanitizer after using hand dryers.
Safe Exit Strategy: Exiting the restroom requires attention to potential germ exposure, especially on door handles. Use a piece of paper towel to open the door and consider using hand sanitizer post-exit for added protection against germs.
Communicating Concerns to Management
Preparation for Public Restroom Visits
BYO Toilet Paper: Public restroom toilet paper may harbor more germs than you realize. Remove the first two layers before use to minimize germ exposure, or consider carrying your own supply in a plastic bag for added cleanliness.
Carry Seat Protectors: While your skin acts as a natural barrier against toilet seat germs, using provided seat protectors can offer additional peace of mind. Be sure to discard the top layer to avoid potential contamination from toilet flush spray.
Portable Sanitation Solutions: Investing in hand sanitizer is a wise precaution for using public restrooms where hand washing facilities may be inadequate. Carry waterless hand sanitizer to supplement hand washing or use it as an extra layer of defense post-hand washing.
Boost Gut Health with Probiotics
Useful Tips
- Avoid touching surfaces directly with bare hands, opt for footwear, and consider alternative methods for children's restroom use to minimize germ exposure.
