When it comes to the porcelain throne, there’s only one thing that we associate it with: taking care of business. And when it comes to taking care of business, we avoid going in public at all costs. Sound and smell prevention are all valid reasons to avoid going number two in public places, but toilet seat germs are high on the list of reasons.
If you’re like us, you’re not shy about creating the toilet paper nest on the seat or squatting to avoid the toilet all together. Did you know that nearly 50 percent of women avoid sitting on a public toilet to avoid toilet seat germs?
We’re going to take a look at the cold, hard facts of what germs could be lurking in or on a toilet and how you can make the most of it with a freshener.
Toilet Seat Germs 101
If you are wondering what germs are commonly found on the seat, here are a few to keep in mind before you take a seat:
1. E. coli
Normally transferred from person-to-person, E. coli is commonly found on nonporous surfaces which includes toilet seats. This bacteria often causes diarrhea, abdominal cramping, and vomiting.
2. Shigella bacteria
This bacteria has similar symptoms to E. coli and leaves those who come in contact with it feeling less than stellar. Shigella are caused by the outcomes of going number two, when the bacteria lands on the toilet, toilet seats and handles.
3. Streptococcus
Also known as strep, this bacteria is more common than you would think. Strep is usually associated with the throat, but there are instances where this bacteria can be left behind on a toilet seat.
It’s important to remember, that though streptococcus is found on toilet seats, it’s rare to contract an infection from sitting on a shared public toilet.
4. Flu and the Common Cold
Now you wouldn’t think of catching a cold or the flu from going to the bathroom, but when it comes to catching diseases from toilet seat germs, influenza is a hot topic. Why? Because these germs can remain active for two to three days on the seat.
Prevention and Staying Fresh
We’re not here to scare you out of using a public restroom because, with proper prevention techniques, the likelihood of catching toilet seat germs is slim. However, you’d be wise to utilize paper towels when you have to touch anything--opening the door, and turning on and off the faucet.
The best tip we could give? Wash your hands after using the bathroom. If you’re out in nature, where there isn’t access to soap and water, keep hand sanitizer nearby. And if you’re wanting to make your bathroom experience really shine, try LooLoo.
With a convenient travel sized toilet freshener, we take the worry out of number two troubles. Take control of your bathroom duties with LooLoo, give it a try today.