Chlorhexidine to Maintain Cleanliness of Restroom Door Handles

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Infection Control
• Public Health

Background:

• Restroom door handles are high-touch surfaces prone to pathogenic bacterial contamination.
• Frequent lapses in hand hygiene exacerbate the risk of cross-contamination.
• Periodic cleaning can mitigate contamination, but sustained antimicrobial effects are desirable.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the cleaning efficacy and residual effects of Sani Cloth CHG 2% wipes on restroom door handles.
• To assess the impact of chlorhexidine (CHG) wipes on reducing bacterial contamination over time in a school setting.

Main Methods:

• A double-blinded, randomized crossover controlled trial was conducted in a school environment.
• Sani Cloth CHG 2% wipes were compared against a control wipe for cleaning internal restroom door handles.
• Bacterial contamination levels were assessed initially and after a six-hour period of pupil use.

Main Results:

• No significant difference in initial cleaning efficacy was observed between CHG wipes and the control.
• After six hours, door handles treated with Sani Cloth CHG 2% wipes showed significantly lower contamination (14%) compared to the control (32%, p = .02).
• CHG wipes demonstrated a significant sustained antimicrobial effect, reducing bacterial load during use.

Conclusions:

• Sani Cloth CHG 2% wipes provide a simple and inexpensive method for improving continuous cleanliness of restroom door handles.
• The sustained residual effect of CHG wipes is beneficial in high-traffic public facilities.
• This technique effectively reduces cross-contamination risks associated with pathogenic bacteria on door handles.