Many people feel uncomfortable using public toilets because of unpleasant smells and the bacteria they may harbour. Sometimes, though, you simply have to. To use a public toilet properly and safely, read the tips below.
Line the toilet seat with paper
A toilet seat carries a very large amount of bacteria because so many people use it every day. This makes it easy to catch infectious diseases, with consequences that are hard to predict.
So before sitting down, line the seat with toilet paper. This minimizes contact with bacteria. For extra hygiene, use tissues you carry with you instead of the paper supplied in the toilet.
Avoid touching things with your palms
Direct contact with your palms makes it easier for bacteria to enter your body. Use the back of your hand rather than your palms and fingers when using a public toilet.
For example, avoid using your fingers to open the door. This limits contact with bacteria left by previous users. Your palms also touch other parts of your body often, so always keep them clean.
Wash your hands with soap or warm water
After using the toilet, wash your hands thoroughly with soap or warm water to remove bacteria from your skin. Use a tissue or the back of your hand to turn off the tap so bacteria do not return to your palms.
Dry your hands properly
Most public toilets have a hand dryer or paper towels. Many people prefer paper towels over dryers, because hot air in a damp toilet environment spreads bacteria more easily.
Use hand sanitizer
Hand sanitizer is a must-have in your bag, as an effective way to keep bacteria at bay. It is widely sold in pharmacies and supermarkets.
It is also easy to use and convenient, so it is worth carrying with you at all times.
Never put personal items on the floor
It hardly needs saying that the floor of a public toilet is heavily contaminated. Microorganisms cling to items placed there and can then spread to your hands and other parts of your body.
Instead of putting your belongings on the floor, use the hook provided or place them on the toilet lid. This greatly reduces exposure to harmful bacteria.
There is no solid evidence yet that using a public toilet spreads disease, but prevention is better than cure. The tips above help keep bacteria out. And do not hold in urine out of worry about germs, as that harms your health.
Vietnam Industrial and Urban Development JSC (ICD) supplies smart public toilets for many projects. Contact us if you need to buy.
