Tips for Maintaining Intimate Hygiene When Using Public Toilets

Intimate hygiene becomes especially important when using public toilets, as they are often the only option while traveling or outside the home. 

Unfortunately, not all public restrooms are clean, and poor hygiene conditions can increase the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs) and vaginal infections, particularly in women.

Meanwhile, holding in your urine is also not a good idea. It can actually lead to other health problems. That’s why it’s essential to know how to maintain cleanliness and protection in your intimate area when using public toilets.

Intimate Hygiene and Health Risks of Public Toilets

According to the American Society for Microbiology, nearly 77,000 types of bacteria and viruses can be found on toilet seats and even on soap dispensers in public restrooms. Some of these include harmful pathogens such as E. coli, Salmonella, Coliform, and rotavirus.

Exposure to these germs can increase the risk of various illnesses, including urinary tract infections, vaginal and vulvar infections, dysentery, typhoid, and digestive issues caused by harmful bacteria.

Tips for Maintaining Intimate Hygiene in Public Toilets

1. Avoid direct contact with the toilet seat

When using a public toilet, try to avoid sitting directly on the toilet seat. If necessary, clean it first with a wet wipe or hand sanitizer, then cover it with toilet paper before use. Toilet seats often retain traces of urine or feces, which can spread bacteria.

2. Close the lid before flushing

Always close the toilet lid before flushing. Many people assume flushing is enough to keep things clean, but flushing can release bacteria and droplets into the air, spreading germs up to several feet away. Closing the lid helps prevent this contamination.

3. Wash your hands properly

Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and running water before and after using the toilet.

Avoid washing your intimate area inside a public restroom. It can actually increase the risk of irritation and infection. Simply pat the area dry with a tissue to keep it clean and dry.

4. Dispose of sanitary waste properly

Keep the toilet area clean by throwing tissues and sanitary waste in the designated bin. Avoid leaving trash on the floor and use hooks to hang your bag or belongings to prevent bacterial contamination from the floor.

5. Bring your personal hygiene kit

Always carry personal essentials such as tissues, wet wipes, and hand sanitizer when going out. This helps you maintain cleanliness and hygiene even in less sanitary public restrooms.

How to Maintain Intimate Hygiene in Public Toilets

In addition to keeping clean while using public toilets, you can also reduce the risk of vaginal infections by:

• Wearing breathable, cotton underwear that absorbs sweat.
• Changing your underwear regularly, especially if it feels damp.
• Avoiding scented soaps or excessive use of feminine hygiene products, which can disrupt the natural balance of good bacteria in the vagina.
• Keeping the intimate area dry after using the toilet to prevent the growth of yeast and bacteria.

Protect your intimate health by maintaining proper hygiene when using public toilets.

Simple habits like washing your hands, closing the lid before flushing, and carrying personal hygiene essentials can help prevent vaginal infections and keep your intimate area healthy.

If you experience unusual symptoms, don’t hesitate to consult a healthcare professional.

References

Health Shots. Accessed in 2025. Knowledge on female hygiene and its associated diseases: a mini review.

Health Shots. Accessed in 2025. World Toilet Day: Practice these toilet habits to prevent risk of infections.