Public restrooms, whether in cafes or on the street, often spark dread for many—especially women who resort to acrobatic "Spiderman" maneuvers to avoid contact with the seat. But according to Dr. Preethi Daniel, an NHS physician frequently consulted on toilet hygiene concerns, such extremes are unnecessary. "To contract a disease, germs would need direct transfer from the seat to the genitals or via an open wound on the legs or buttocks. You're more likely to be struck by lightning or see chickens with teeth than catch an STI in a public bathroom," she told the Daily Mail.
While public toilets aren't the cleanest spaces, the risk isn't zero. Bacteria like E. coli and Salmonella can linger on seats, potentially causing diarrhea, vomiting, or fever. Floors, however, pose a greater threat—that's why experts advise against going barefoot, even to relieve sore feet from heels. Ironically, Dr. Daniel notes that hasty measures can backfire: rushing out without fully emptying the bladder heightens UTI risks by allowing bacteria to thrive. Instead, stick to these three proven hygiene steps: cover the seat with toilet paper or use antibacterial wipes, wash your hands thoroughly afterward, and apply hand sanitizer for extra protection. Simple and effective!
