Public toilets are often associated with a variety of bacteria and health hazards. However, in practice the situation is not as dire as it seems. Let’s look at the most common myths about the safety of public toilets.

Myth: You can get a disease in a public restroom

It’s true that public toilets can be a source of bacteria, but contact with them will not necessarily lead to illness. Our skin and mucous membranes serve as a reliable protective barrier against most microbes. However, after using the toilet, it is important to wash your hands thoroughly and avoid contact with your face to minimize the risk of infections.

Myth: You can’t sit on a public toilet

In fact, sitting on a public toilet is safe. Germs and viruses cannot survive for long outside their natural environment, so the chance of infection through the toilet is extremely low. However, to reduce disgust, you can use disposable seat covers. Most shopping centers and restaurants have a cleaning schedule posted on the wall indicating when the restroom is being cleaned. There are much more bacteria on the door handle in the toilet!

Fact: It is necessary to close the toilet with a lid closed when flushing

This is really important to prevent the spread of bacteria and viruses. When a toilet flushes, germs can be thrown up to a height of ten centimeters, which can lead to their spread to surrounding surfaces. Therefore, closing the toilet with a lid when flushing is a precautionary measure, not only in a public toilet, but also at home, if the bathroom is shared.

A public restroom can have a lot of bacteria on the walls and floor. Therefore, if you place bags on the floor (which is not recommended), then wipe the bottom with wet wipes and do not place the bags on the table or chairs, bed, when you come home.

Myth: The bladder can burst

Although the bladder can be vulnerable when overfilled, the risk of bladder rupture at rest is extremely low. Usually the sensation of a full bubble occurs long before the bubble reaches its capacity limit. And if the limit has actually already been reached, spontaneous urination will occur. However, bad falls or injuries can increase the risk of bladder rupture, so you should be careful.