What You Can Catch From A Public Restroom [VIDEO]

I've never really been freaked out by a public restroom unless it's torn all to pieces, with no toilet paper, no paper towels, no soap, and unidentified wet droplets all over the toilet seat and the floor. My rule has always been, if it looks clean, and has supplies, I can use it...carefully.

However, if you're a little skeptical already about using a public restroom, this information may freak you out a little.

There ARE things you can catch from a public facility. It's true. However, the good news for those of us with healthy immune systems, is that your body can fight some of the things that you might run across.

Here's some advice for using a public restroom, to make sure you stay out of dangers way.

WASH YOUR HANDS

Need I say more.

FLUSH THE TOILET WITH YOUR FOOT IF YOU'RE SICK

Now here's a new one. I've never heard this before. I've recently read that if you are sick, and you really have to use the bathroom, that you should flush the toilet with your foot, rather than using your hand. Now anyone else that touches the handle can get all the dirty germs that were on the bottom of your shoe on their hands. I don't know if I agree with this idea, but I DO suggest that you take a little piece of toilete paper and flush with the paper touching the handle, not your hand. (Or your foot! Hello!)

USE TOILET SEAT COVERS

Whenever possible, protect your bottom. Bacteria is ALL OVER that toilet seat. The person before you might have "dripped" and just wiped it up. Might have? No. You KNOW that one of the hundreds of people that were in that stall did it. Just because you can't see them, doesn't mean the germs aren't there. If toilet seat covers are not available, then try to use toilet paper to line the seat and sit on that. Or, do what girls do: Practice "Hovering" over the toilet. It's great exercise for your thighs and glutes.

USE PAPER TOWELS TO TURN OFF FAUCETS AND OPEN DOORS

After washing your hands, grab a paper towel or toilet paper, to turn off the faucet, and then also use that paper to open the door to leave the facility. It's a few extra steps, but it can help you avoid serious illnesses like: the flu, strep, and many other terrible viruses.

THE SINK IS A NASTY PLACE

Be careful and avoid contact with any surface in a public restroom. A great idea would be to keep a small container of hand sanitizer in your vehicle, or purse at all times. Don't forget to use it!

PLEASE USE SOAP AND STOP WIPING YOUR HANDS ON YOUR PANTS

Guys....when you're done using the urinal, PLEASE use soap with the water, and stop using your pants to wipe off your hands. Use paper towels, or dry your hands with a hand dryer. Please?!