Touchless Bathroom Fixtures- Do they Help Keep Us Healthy?
Touchless bathroom fixtures are becoming more commonplace in homes and public restrooms alike. With a wide range of automatic restroom technology on the market, including automatic faucets, soap dispensers, towel dispensers, hand dryers, toilet flushers and doors, public restrooms are becoming more “hands-off” than ever before. Touchless technology is said to be the solution to germ-infested public restrooms, but do these fixtures actually keep us healthier than manual fixtures?
What’s the appeal of touchless?
*Feels cleaner – Regardless of whether or not it’s actually true, the public regards touchless fixtures as altogether cleaner and healthier than manual fixtures. We can use the restroom, wash our hands, dry our hands, and exit the restroom without touching anything. Because public restrooms are breeding grounds for all kinds of germs, touchless technology gives patrons peace of mind when nature calls.
*The janitor staff cleans faster – Janitor’s are thrilled with touchless fixtures, as they are easier to clean and promote altogether cleaner habits in restrooms. Because the public isn’t touching as many surfaces, the janitor has less to clean. In addition, with technology like automated flushers, there are less restroom “emergencies” to handle. Finally, when the public believes that the restroom is cleaner, they are more likely to put in the effort to keep it as clean as they found it.
*The organization saves money – Because touchless fixtures are dispensing items automatically, the amount is controlled, saving the organization money. Instead of a using an taking an excessive amount of towels, or perhaps not turning off a faucet completely, these fixtures decide on an appropriate amount for them.
*Still begs to answer the question of whether this is a healthy option. In theory, touchless fixtures should be cleaner and healthier than manual fixtures, as you reduce contact with the surfaces that harbor bacteria. Of water samples taken from both kinds of faucets, half of the samples tested positive for several kinds of bacteria from a touchless faucet, while only a quarter of the water samples from the manual faucet tested positive. Seems touchless bathroom fixtures may not be as clean as we’re led to believe. While they are probably the better choice of the two, it’s important to be aware of the fixtures you use to keep clean.
*Need assistance with the fixtures in your bathroom? Sam Pollard and Son is ready to help. Call today to schedule an appointment!
