A Germaphobe’s Guide To Public Restrooms

Dealing With The Terrible Odors

Sometimes terrible odors are unavoidable in public restrooms. Consider purchasing a pocket-sized air freshener and keeping it in your bag for when you need to use a public restroom. If you happen to find yourself without air freshener or are worried about breathing in chemicals from the air freshener, try breathing into your sleeve or wrap a light scarf loosely around your face to help mask the odors. Of course, it is better to find a restroom to use that does not smell foul but if you cannot wait; try your best to struggle through the odors using the tips above. Try not thinking about the odor molecules that you are breathing into your body.

How To Flush The Toilet

Make sure to flush the toilet using your foot and then quickly back away as far as possible (unlock the door and extend your leg to flush with your exit ready if the stall is tiny) so you do not get sprayed as some toilets tend to have a powerful flush that causes water droplets to fly several feet beyond the toilet bowl. If the toilet has a seat lid, always place the lid down before flushing. If you prefer not to flush using your foot, use some toilet paper to flush so you do not have to make direct contact with the toilet handle. Use some more toilet paper to open the stall door with and if your hands make direct contact with anything in the restroom stall, be mindful not to touch yourself or your belongings until after you thoroughly wash your hands.