Many people believe that placing toilet paper on a public toilet seat creates a protective barrier against germs. However, the reality may be the exact opposite.

Public restrooms make many people uncomfortable, especially when they’re unfamiliar or appear old and poorly maintained. Most people try to get in quickly, finish as fast as possible, and leave immediately. If the toilet seat looks less than clean, the natural reaction is often to grab some toilet paper and cover the seat with one or even two layers before sitting down.For many people—especially women—having what feels like a protective barrier between their skin and the toilet seat provides peace of mind. I used to think the same way until I asked a doctor during a medical visit and discovered that this seemingly hygienic habit may actually do more harm than good.

Should You Line a Public Toilet Seat with Toilet Paper?

The answer is no.

Ironically, this habit may actually increase your exposure to germs rather than protect you.

Here’s something many people don’t realize: Toilet seats are typically made from smooth, non-porous materials. This design makes it difficult for bacteria to cling to the surface or multiply.

Toilet paper, on the other hand, has the opposite structure. It’s porous, fibrous, and highly absorbent, making it much more likely to trap moisture, dust, and microorganisms.

Even more concerning, every time someone flushes the toilet without closing the lid, tiny droplets containing bacteria can be released into the air and settle on the nearby roll of toilet paper. Because toilet paper readily absorbs moisture, these microorganisms can become trapped within its fibers.

When you place that paper on the toilet seat and sit on it, the paper may bring those microbes into closer contact with your skin. Instead of acting as a protective barrier, it may become a surface that transfers contaminants.

What Are the Potential Risks?
Using toilet paper as a seat cover may unintentionally increase contact with microorganisms that have settled on the paper.

Women may face a greater risk because of anatomical differences and the closer proximity of sensitive areas to the toilet seat.

For example, Escherichia coli (E. coli)—a bacterium commonly found in human waste—can contribute to urinary tract infections if it reaches the urinary tract. Similarly, Staphylococcus bacteria can cause skin infections if they enter the body through small cuts or abrasions.

Moist environments can also encourage the growth and spread of fungi and other microorganisms that may contribute to vaginal irritation or infections.

It’s important to note, however, that infections generally require a route of entry into the body, and simply touching a clean, intact toilet seat is considered a relatively low-risk source of infection by many health experts.

Better Ways to Protect Yourself in Public Restrooms
Rather than relying on toilet paper as a seat cover, consider these more effective hygiene practices:

Wash your hands thoroughly. The highest-risk surfaces are often door handles, flush buttons, faucet handles, and other frequently touched objects—not necessarily the toilet seat itself. Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds after using the restroom.