Many avoid public toilets because they seem dirty.
A study from the Tork Insight Survey 2025 shows that 28 percent have avoided them, while 69 percent are concerned about hygiene, according to Netdoktor.
As a result, some choose to hold it instead of going to the restroom. This can negatively affect the body if it happens frequently.
Where does the infection come from?
According to Netdoktor and research from the University of Gothenburg, bacteria are found everywhere, not only in restrooms.
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Infection can occur in many places, such as in shops, at work, or on public transport.
The greatest risk lies in the hands. When touching door handles, buttons, and faucets, bacteria can accumulate.
If you then touch your face, the infection can enter the body.
In other words, the problem is not the toilet seat itself, but what you touch.
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How to protect yourself
Good hand hygiene is the most important measure. Hands should be washed with soap and dried thoroughly afterward. Wet hands spread bacteria more easily.
Paper towels are often better than hand dryers because they dry hands completely.
Hand sanitizer can be used as additional protection, but it cannot replace handwashing.
It is generally safe to use public toilets if you are healthy. In fact, it may be worse for the body to avoid them when needed.
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Sources: Netdoktor and Tork Insight Survey 2025.
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This article is made and published by Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk, who may have used AI in the preparation.