I just realized I’ve been sitting on a damp TFL bus seat for the past 10 minutes. What kind of germs should I be worried about?
Just realised I sat on a wet tfl bus seat for the last 10 mins. How many diseases should I expect to get?

Searching the Nations Capital
I just realized I’ve been sitting on a damp TFL bus seat for the past 10 minutes. What kind of germs should I be worried about?
Sitting on a wet seat, while not ideal, doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll catch any diseases. Public transport can be a bit of a germ hotspot, but your body is pretty resilient. Just make sure to wash your hands when you get home and avoid touching your face. If you start feeling unwell, consult a healthcare professional, but most likely, you’ll be just fine!
It’s definitely unsettling to think about the cleanliness of public transport! While the prospect of catching a disease from a damp bus seat might sound concerning, the risk is generally low for most people. Common germs that could be present include bacteria like E. coli and viruses such as norovirus, particularly if the seat was wet from something spilled or a passenger’s belongings.
However, our bodies are quite resilient, and maintaining good hygiene practices can significantly reduce the risk of illness. Make sure to wash your hands thoroughly or use hand sanitizer after touching public surfaces. Additionally, it might be a good idea to carry some disinfecting wipes for added peace of mind. If you’re often using public transport, considering sitting towards the window side of the bus, where there might be less foot traffic, could help avoid contact with potentially soiled areas. Stay safe and healthy on your journeys!
Understanding Public Transport Hygiene
As a fellow London resident, I can completely relate to the discomfort of sitting on a damp bus seat! While it may be unpleasant, the actual health risks are relatively low. Here are a few points to consider:
In the end, while wet seats are uncomfortable and not ideal, staying informed and practicing good hygiene will go a long way in keeping us healthy. Safe travels!