Strategies for Maintaining Cleanliness in Public Toilets: A Guide for the Hyper-sanitary
In a world where the fear of germs is a common concern, especially in public restrooms, it's essential to follow some guidelines to maintain hygiene. This article presents a speaker's guide, focusing on their strategies for navigating public restrooms.
The speaker, who has a fear of germs, a small bladder, and digestive issues, frequently utilises public restrooms. To minimise the risk of bacterial exposure, they follow a meticulous routine.
Upon entering a stall or getting close to a urinal, the speaker avoids touching anything with bare hands. Instead, they use toilet paper to touch the handle if the toilet doesn't automatically flush. After use, they remember to flush to avoid splashes from the toilet.
When it comes to assessing the seat, the speaker inspects it for dampness or discoloration before sitting down. They use toilet paper to wipe the seat and then put a seat cover or fresh toilet paper down.
In terms of dealing with odours, the speaker suggests using air fresheners or covering one's nose while in the restroom. When exiting a stall, they grab fresh toilet paper to avoid touching the door. If the restroom doesn't have an automatic wastebasket near the door, they try to exit without touching the door. In such cases, they use hand sanitizer after exiting the restroom if necessary.
When it comes to locating a suitable public restroom, hotels, bookstores, cafes, and restaurants are the best bets. If the air dryer or paper towel dispenser requires manual activation, the speaker uses their elbow, shoulder, or sleeve to touch the activation button.
Hand sanitizer is a good alternative to soap and water, especially if the restroom is out of soap. However, the speaker carries hand sanitizer with them at all times for added peace of mind. In a bad situation, they use their foot (with their shoe on) to push the flush handle. As a last resort, they wipe their wet hands on their clothes.
A recent NPR article confirmed the speaker's germ fears, stating that all types of bacteria persist for months in public restrooms, with about 45% having a fecal origin. The author of the article series mentioned in the provided article is Dr. Roxane Lorenz.
Janine Annett, a New York-based writer, focuses on picture books, humor pieces, and personal essays, writing about topics ranging from parenting to politics, from the serious to the silly. This article is just one of the many insightful pieces she has written.
