Public restrooms can be a breeding ground for germs, and recent studies have discovered that some of the biggest culprits for the spread of bacteria may be hiding in plain sight. When researchers from the University of Leeds investigated the spread of germs in public restrooms, they found that modern hand dryers were far more problematic than traditional paper towels.
The Spread of Germs in Public Restrooms
The study conducted at the University of Leeds in England showed that super-powered jet stream dryers and warm air machines caused the widespread dispersal of microbes compared to paper towel dispensers. In fact, germ counts for airborne pathogens were a staggering 27 times higher in and around jet air dryers than near paper towel dispensers.
Warm air dryers were also guilty of ejecting bacteria into the surrounding air. The investigation discovered that bacterial counts in the air adjacent to jet air dryers were 4.5 times higher than near the warm air dryers. These airborne bacteria continued to float in the air for longer than the average 15 seconds it takes people to dry their hands.
Lurking Bacteria
Worryingly, researchers found that almost half of the bacteria remained in the air five minutes after someone dried their hands. And they could still find evidence of some bacteria persisting a full 15 minutes later. “Next time you dry your hands in a public toilet using an electric hand dryer, you may be spreading bacteria without knowing it,” warns Mark Wilcox, a professor at Leeds’ School of Medicine. “You may also be splattered with bugs from other people’s hands.”
Other Areas to Be Wary Of
While hand dryers may be a significant source of germ dispersal, it’s important to remember that they aren’t the only culprits. Other areas of public restrooms can harbor plenty of germs, such as door handles, sink faucets, and toilet seats. To help protect yourself, be mindful of touching surfaces with your bare hands and consider using a tissue or a paper towel to open doors or turn off faucets.
When it comes to public restrooms, it’s important to remember that germs can be lurking in many places, not just the obvious ones. Keep in mind that the cleanliness of a public restroom can vary significantly, and it’s always a good idea to take some extra precautions to protect yourself from harmful bacteria.
Hand Washing: Your First Line of Defense
The most effective way to help prevent the spread of germs, both in public restrooms and beyond, is by properly washing your hands. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), washing your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds can significantly reduce the number of germs present. Be sure to lather and scrub thoroughly, including the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails.
If soap and water aren’t available, the CDC recommends using a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. However, hand sanitizer may not be as effective on visibly dirty or greasy hands and may not remove certain types of germs, such as norovirus. Using soap and water is always the preferred method for hand washing.
The Importance of Drying Your Hands
While it may seem like a small detail, the act of drying your hands can also play a crucial role in reducing the spread of germs. The World Health Organization has emphasized the importance of ensuring that your hands are completely dry after washing, as germs can more easily transfer from wet hands to other surfaces.
If you find yourself in a public restroom with only hand dryers available, consider using a paper towel from the restroom, if available, or a tissue from your own belongings to dry your hands. While it’s not always the most convenient option, taking this extra step can help to reduce your exposure to harmful germs and contribute to a healthier environment for everyone.
Staying Healthy in Public Environments
It’s essential to be mindful of the spread of germs when using public restrooms, but it’s also crucial to remember that germs are present in many other public environments. Practice good hand hygiene by washing your hands regularly, especially before eating or touching your face. Be vigilant about the surfaces you come into contact with, and consider carrying disinfectant wipes or hand sanitizer with you for added protection.
Remember, it’s important to stay informed about the potential spread of germs and to take necessary precautions to keep yourself and others healthy. With proper hand hygiene and a heightened awareness of our surroundings, we can all help minimize the risk of spreading harmful bacteria in public spaces.
