How many germs are on door handles?

Door handles can host millions of germs and bacteria at any given time, which can lead to the spreading of illness. Doorknobs in public places may have more germs than doorknobs at home, as a higher rate of people with unclean hands are likely to use public doorknobs.

A 2005 study found that 18 percent of people do not wash their hands after using the restroom, according to Forbes. Therefore, it is best to avoid touching door handles whenever possible, especially those on bathroom doors, to avoid spreading germs. Proper sanitation of hands will also help reduce risks associated with dirty door handles. To avoid touching a door handle, open the doorknob using a paper towel or other disposable tissue.