Using the hand dryer in public washrooms to rid your hands off excess water is no doubt an enjoyable experience. It’s quick, easy and the strong gush of warm air that evaporates any dampness off your hands almost feels soothing. That said, did you know that it is one of the most unhygienic, bacteria-harbouring spots in any washroom ever?
About a week ago, Facebook user Nicole Ward took to Facebook with evidence of the claim. She posted a photo of the result of an experiment she carried out and got back terrifying results. She placed the open face of a Petri dish between the opening of a hand dryer for three minutes, then she left it for a few days.
When she looked at it later, she was alarmed as to what had grown. She says in her caption, “DO NOT EVER dry your hands in those things again. This is the several strains of possible pathogenic fungi and bacteria that you’re swirling around your hands, and you think you’re walking out with clean hands.”
It’s safe to say that we’re never putting our hands near one of these machines again after this frightening PSA. Use paper towels, or to be more environmentally-friendly, dry off your hands on your own clothes.. Or swing them dry.
