How to Sanitize a Public Toilet
Using a public toilet when traveling can be a harrowing experience. Toilet seats are a haven for germs and disease, such as pubic lice, scabies, E. coli, staph and more. You should always try to sanitize a public toilet before using it. Though you cannot completely protect yourself from germs, some of these suggestions for sanitizing a public toilet can help.
- Difficulty:
- Moderately Easy
Instructions
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1
Cover the toilet with strips of toilet paper before you sit down. It is not a complete safe guard against disease and germs because the paper can slip or tear, but it is definitely better than nothing. Try to sit down carefully or squat over the toilet seat.
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2
Purchase disposable paper toilet seat covers. Many public places do not supply toilet seat covers of any type. Instead of having to squat over the toilet or cover it with toilet paper, use one of these handy paper covers, which come in easy to carry pouches.
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3
Consider plastic toilet seat covers. CleanSleeve produces this type of cover, which comes with a zip travel bag that fits into your purse or glove compartment. The sleeves completely cover the toilet seat top and bottom, creating a water-proof barrier to guard against E. coli, staph and other infectious diseases.
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4
Use sanitizing wipes. If you must touch the toilet lid or seat, wipe it down with a disposable sanitizing wipe. These wipes come in travel packets and can fit in your purse or pocket.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Always remember to use a sanitizing wipe when flushing the toilet. The flush handle carries many germs. The same holds true for door handles.
Wash your hands thoroughly with hot, soapy water before and after using a public toilet. If no sink is available, use hand sanitizer.
Do not sit on a bare toilet seat in a public restroom.
