Public bathrooms aren’t always the epitome of cleanliness, but a few strategic choices can help you find the best option when you’re on the go. One janitor, Jennifer Cullison, who has spent years observing bathroom habits and keeping facilities spotless, has shared her top tips on how to pick the cleanest stall in a public restroom—and she’s even pointed out one stall to avoid at all costs. Let’s explore her professional advice so you can make an informed choice next time nature calls.
Why Public Bathroom Cleanliness Varies
Public bathrooms see a lot of foot traffic, and despite janitorial efforts, some stalls inevitably get dirtier than others. Factors like frequency of use, stall positioning, and even human psychology play a role in which stalls stay the cleanest. Jennifer Cullison’s tips focus on understanding these patterns to help you make the best choice.
Avoid the First Stall: It’s Often the Dirtiest
According to Cullison, the first stall is typically the one to avoid. Why? It turns out that people entering a restroom are more likely to use the first stall they see, often out of convenience. This stall’s high traffic makes it harder to keep clean.
“The first stall is the most used,” Cullison explains. “Go to the farthest stall from the door for a cleaner experience.”
Since the first stall tends to have the most traffic, it’s often the dirtiest in terms of germs, litter, and general wear. By avoiding the first stall and heading for a less popular option, you increase your chances of finding a cleaner, fresher environment.
Head for the Farthest Stall
If the first stall is a no-go, then where should you go? Cullison recommends heading to the last stall in the row or the one furthest from the entrance. Stalls farther from the door tend to see less traffic, making them easier to maintain.
People are generally creatures of habit and convenience. Most users don’t want to walk further than necessary, especially if there are closer options available. This simple habit of others can work in your favor, as fewer people using a particular stall means it’s likely cleaner.
Choose the Left Side over the Right
In restrooms with stalls on both sides, Cullison suggests a subtle trick: choose a stall on the left side of the room. Why? Studies and behavioral observations suggest that people tend to gravitate toward the right when given an option, possibly influenced by the fact that a majority of the population is right-handed.
“In a bathroom with stalls on both sides, choose the left,” Cullison advises. “People are naturally more likely to go right.”
This tendency means that stalls on the left side generally see less use and, consequently, are likely to be cleaner. This small detail can make a big difference in finding a sanitary space, especially in high-traffic public restrooms.
Respect the Handicap Stall
While it might seem tempting to use the handicap stall due to its spaciousness, Cullison cautions against it unless absolutely necessary. The handicap stall should be available for those with disabilities, as it provides essential space and accessibility features.
Furthermore, Cullison notes that children often gravitate to this stall because of its extra room, treating it as a novelty space. This increased usage means it’s not always the cleanest option.
“Leave the handicap stall for those who really need it,” Cullison advises. “Most kids love the extra space and will head straight for it.”
By respecting this stall, you not only keep it available for those who need it but also avoid a frequently used spot that may not be as clean as it seems.
She recommends choosing the farthest stall from the door, as these stalls are usually less occupied. Image Credits: Getty
Why These Tips Matter: Maximizing Your Restroom Experience
In a perfect world, all public bathrooms would be spotless, but the reality is different. Janitors do their best to maintain cleanliness, but high traffic can make this challenging. Cullison’s advice leverages behavioral patterns to help restroom users find cleaner, less-used stalls. By making informed choices, you can improve your public restroom experience and avoid unnecessary exposure to germs.
The Reaction to Cullison’s Tips: Practical Advice or Overthinking It?
Cullison’s tips sparked a lively conversation online. Many people appreciated her insights, finding them practical and helpful for navigating public restrooms with more confidence. Others were more skeptical, believing that all stalls should be equally clean or that they would use whichever stall was available, depending on the urgency.
Here’s what some people had to say:
- One commenter said, “I just go behind a bush if I need to. No worries.”
- Another added, “It’s her job to clean them, so they should all be clean.”
- A third person shared, “Guess it depends on how urgent it is.”
- Others debated the use of handicap stalls, emphasizing the need for separate restrooms for different needs.
When stalls are on both sides, it’s best to go left since most people tend to choose the right side. Image Credits: Getty
This range of reactions highlights how differently people approach public restrooms. While some are happy for any guidance, others rely on instinct or simply choose the first stall available. Despite differing opinions, Cullison’s tips offer practical advice for those who value cleanliness and comfort.
How to Put These Tips into Practice
Next time you find yourself in a public restroom, take a moment to consider Cullison’s tips. Here’s a quick rundown of how to make the most out of her advice:
- Skip the First Stall – Head further into the row for a potentially cleaner option.
- Go to the End of the Row – Stalls farther from the door often experience less traffic.
- Pick a Stall on the Left – In restrooms with stalls on both sides, try the left side for a lesser-used option.
- Respect the Handicap Stall – Leave it available for those who need it, and avoid it if possible for cleanliness and courtesy.
These simple tips can make a surprising difference in your restroom experience. By understanding common behaviors, you can select the best stall with confidence and avoid areas with higher germ exposure.
The Psychology Behind Stall Selection
Cullison’s observations about bathroom habits aren’t just guesswork; they tap into basic psychological tendencies. Most people naturally choose the path of least resistance or convenience, which is why they go for the first stall or choose the right side if given the option. Understanding these subconscious choices can give you an edge in selecting a cleaner restroom experience.
This isn’t the first time psychology has been applied to restroom behavior. Researchers have noted that people’s choices in public restrooms often reveal habits rooted in comfort, familiarity, and even social conditioning. Cullison’s tips help you outsmart the crowd and find the least-used, cleanest stall.
Conclusion: Making Public Restrooms a Little More Bearable
Public bathrooms may not always be pristine, but Cullison’s insider tips offer a practical way to navigate these shared spaces with a bit more ease and cleanliness. By avoiding the first stall, heading to the left side, and respecting the handicap stall, you can improve your public restroom experience and avoid the most commonly used (and dirtiest) spots.
Next time you’re faced with the choice, remember these tips to make a quick, informed decision. With a little guidance from an experienced janitor, even the experience of using a public bathroom can be improved.
