Six simple hygiene steps to follow when using train washrooms

Train washrooms are used by many passengers during long journeys, making proper hygiene habits essential to avoid germs. Dr Aarti Ullal, a physician and diabetologist at Gleneagles Hospital in Parel, states that proper handwashing with soap and running water is one of the best ways to remove germs.

Handwashing And Sanitising

Wash your hands for about 20 seconds, cleaning your palms, the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and around your fingertips and nails. Dr Ullal suggests carrying a small hygiene kit containing an alcohol-based hand sanitiser with at least 60 per cent alcohol, liquid soap or soap strips, tissues, wet wipes, disinfectant wipes, and a disposable bag. If your hands are not visibly dirty, an alcohol-based sanitiser works when soap and water are unavailable, though it does not replace soap and water when hands are visibly soiled.

Avoiding Surface Contact

Taps and door latches carry germs because many people touch them, but touching them does not automatically cause an infection. The bigger concern is transferring those germs from your hands to your face by touching your mouth, nose, or eyes. Avoid touching your face while inside the washroom, and use a tissue to operate taps and latches if you prefer. Never place your phone, water bottle, or food on washroom surfaces.

Footwear And Flushing

Keep your footwear on and avoid walking barefoot because train toilet floors can be wet and are shared by many passengers. Close the toilet lid, if one is available, before flushing the toilet. Avoid eating without cleaning your hands, touching your face after handling washroom surfaces, and leaving food uncovered back at your seat.

Menstrual Hygiene

Dr Pavana H N, a consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist at Motherhood Hospitals in Noida, advises that menstruation should not stop women from travelling with proper planning. Carry enough pads, tampons, or other menstrual products along with a few extras, and clean your hands before and after changing them. Change sanitary pads every four to six hours or sooner if soaked, and avoid placing menstrual products on potentially dirty washroom surfaces.

Context

Long-distance train travel involves sharing compact public facilities with large numbers of people over extended periods. Following basic personal hygiene habits helps reduce the spread of common germs without requiring complex cleaning routines.