Public restrooms aren’t always our first choice when we must go. It’s completely valid if these bathrooms give you the “ick” — after all, they have a reputation for carrying germs and viruses. However, there’s no avoiding public restrooms as these are necessary evils when you’re traveling or otherwise on the go.
Fortunately, there are things that you can do to minimize your risk of contracting viruses when using these public spaces. From taking tissue paper with you to keeping hygiene practices in mind, here’s how you can survive using common restrooms in the area.
Why are Public Restrooms Risky?
These bathrooms are breeding grounds for bacteria and germs, which make them potential health hazards. From the door handles and faucets to toilet sinks and seats, these surfaces are teeming with microbes that can cause a variety of illnesses.
The air quality within these enclosed spaces is often compromised, further increasing the risk of airborne transmission. Let’s not forget the potential for accidents, too. Slips and trips on wet floors add to the growing list of concerns associated with public restrooms.
How to Stay Safe When Using a Public Restroom
Sadly, you can’t control what other people do when they use a common bathroom or how often it is cleaned. But you can take some steps to avoid contact with infectious germs, including the following.
Bring Your Own Hygiene Kit
Equipping yourself with essential hygiene products significantly reduces your contact with potential contaminants. Always have your hygiene kit with you! Make sure that your kit has the following items:
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Alcohol spray. Pack a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol content. Sanicare’s Clean Hands Alcohol Spray cleans your hands without leaving your hands dry! Antibacterial and made from 65% ethyl alcohol, a spritz of alcohol can protect you from germs. It also leaves your hands smelling fresh with your choice of Zesty Bergamot or Peach Blossom scent.
Did you just run out of spray? Worry not! Sanicare has refill pouches too for both Peach Blossom and Zesty Bergamot.
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Sanitizing wipes. Add a level of protection to your Public Restroom Adventures by having a pack of wipes on hand. Sanicare’s Lavender Sanitizing Wipes are clinically proven effective against harmful bacteria like E. coli and S. aureus. Despite its tough cleaning power, each sheet is formulated with skin-loving ingredients so it’s also ideal for people with sensitive skin.
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Paper soap. Public restroom soap isn’t always reliable since plenty of people use them every day. Bringing your bar of soap, however, can be a bulky hassle. Instead, bring a pack of dissolvable paper soap with you so you can clean your hands wherever you are. Have a pack of Sanicare’s Clean Hands Soap Thins so you can practice a good handwashing routine on-the-go. Available in Ocean Rush and Fresh Paradise.
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Tissues. Tissues are ideal for drying your hands or opening bathroom doors. They also help minimize direct contact with contaminated surfaces. Tisyu’s Coreless Bathroom Tissue doesn’t bulk up your bag because, as its name says, it is coreless! Also, each compact roll is made of 100% virgin pulp, so it’s safe for hygiene use.
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Toilet seat cover. While the primary concern in public restrooms is often the spread of germs through hand contact, using a toilet seat cover can provide an extra layer of protection and peace of mind. Sanicare’s Disposable Toilet Seat Covers offer better protection against germs. Made from 100% biodegradable paper, each sheet is also an eco-friendly effort that promotes better hygiene.
Practice Diligent Handwashing
This is the cornerstone of hygiene. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, covering all surfaces of your hands. Dry them completely with a paper towel. Avoid touching your face, eyes, nose, or mouth until after washing your hands.
Minimize Contact with Surfaces
As much as possible, limit your contact with surfaces in the bathroom. Instead, use tissues or paper towels to open doors, turn on faucets, and flush toilets. Use them instead of hand dryers to achieve a cleaner dry.
Stay Off Your Phone
Sadly, your phone is also a germ magnet. A 2020 study published in Travel Magazine and Infectious Disease reported that smartphones are petri dishes full of fungi, viruses, and bacteria.
So, touching your mobile phone while you’re using a public restroom increases your risk of transferring germs to your gadget. From your phone, germs can easily get into your nose or mouth, making you sick. Leave your phone alone until you can touch it with clean hands.
Be Quick
The longer you stay in a common restroom, the higher the chances of encountering bacteria or viruses. However, this shouldn’t be an excuse to hurry with your business or skip out on handwashing. Instead, avoid hanging around while your friends are using the restroom or doing your touch-ups when you don’t have to.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Let Germs Win!
Public restrooms are hotspots for germs, but with the right knowledge and habits, you can protect yourself. Always prioritize hand hygiene, be mindful of the surfaces you touch, and consider carrying a hygiene kit. These small steps can make a big difference in reducing your exposure to harmful bacteria.
Remember, prevention is key to staying healthy, even in the most germ-laden environments. ShopHygiene offers a range of essential hygiene products to keep you protected. Shop your favorite hygiene today!
