Public restrooms are a necessary part of everyday life. From shopping malls to restaurants, gas stations to airports, we rely on these facilities to help us meet our basic hygiene needs while we're out and about. However, not all public restrooms are created equal when it comes to cleanliness and hygiene. In fact, some can be downright dirty and even dangerous to our health.
When we think about public restrooms, we often focus on the ick factor: the unpleasant sights and smells that can be overwhelming. But what we can't see can be even more concerning. Public restrooms are often breeding grounds for germs and bacteria, some of which can cause serious illnesses like E.coli, norovirus, and hepatitis A. So how can we prevent these germs and bacteria from affecting us? There are a few simple things you can do to help protect yourself while using public restrooms:
Wash your hands thoroughly
This is the most effective way to remove germs and bacteria from your hands and according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), handwashing is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of these and other illnesses. Use soap and water, and wash your hands for at least 20 seconds. Be sure to wash all parts of your hands, including your palms, the backs of your hands, and in between your fingers.
Use hand sanitizer
If soap and water aren't available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Rub the sanitizer all over your hands until they are completely dry.
Use a barrier
Use a paper towel or toilet seat cover to cover any surfaces you will be touching, such as toilet seats, door handles, and faucets. This can help reduce your risk of coming into contact with germs and bacteria.
Avoid touching your face
Try to avoid touching your face, mouth, and eyes after using a public restroom, as this can introduce germs and bacteria into your body.
Use proper disposal methods
Dispose of any paper towels, toilet paper, or other waste properly, and avoid touching any waste or used hygiene products.
Be aware of high-risk areas
Some areas of a public restroom are at higher risk than others, such as the door handle, faucet handles, and toilet flush handles. Be aware of these areas and take extra precautions, such as using a barrier or washing your hands more frequently.
Use Lulu
Lulu is a free app that lists all public restrooms near you, as well as gives you access to semi-private bathrooms owned by restaurants that the app partners with. With Lulu, you can easily find a clean and safe restroom while on the go, without having to worry about stumbling upon a dirty or even dangerous facility.
You can also filter your facilities by the amenities you need such as wheelchair access, baby tray, or others.
You can avoid germs in public bathrooms, just follow these simple steps and start using Lulu to find clean and safe public restrooms so you can help protect your health and stay healthy while on the go.
