Are restroom door handles contaminated with bacteria?

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On One Hand: Yes, There Are Bacteria

Bacteria are present in restrooms, and door handles are an especially likely location for bacteria since everyone touches the door handle. Restrooms present a favorable environment for many types of bacteria, including dangerous bacteria from fecal matter. Try not to touch anything you don't have to touch, and keep your purse or handbag off the floor whenever possible.

On the Other: Bacteria Are Everywhere

Bacteria are everywhere, and many of them are harmless or beneficial. For example, bacteria provide us with antibiotics, help us digest food, and exist in yogurt and sourdough bread. Although good hygiene is important, especially during flu season or during outbreaks, there will always be bacteria everywhere.

Bottom Line

Since restrooms can be host to a number of dangerous bacteria, such as those present in fecal matter, it is best to be careful about hygiene. Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water, and if possible, use a paper towel or your sleeve to open the restroom door before you leave. However, the existence of bacteria isn't something to worry about--bacteria are everywhere, and most of them are harmless or beneficial.

Source:

Berkeley: Introduction to the Bacteria

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Kaivac: The Public Restroom (PDF)

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