Myth-busting everyday STI worries – what’s real vs what’s rubbish.

We’ve all heard the stories:  “You can catch something from a toilet seat!” or “Be careful using hotel towels!” But when it comes to sexually transmitted infections (STIs), there’s a lot of misinformation out there.

Let’s clear things up once and for all.

The Toilet Seat Myth

You can’t catch an STI from sitting on a toilet seat.
STIs are spread through sexual contact, not casual contact. Most bacteria and viruses that cause infections like chlamydia, gonorrhoea or HIV can’t survive long outside the body so they die quickly on surfaces like toilet seats.

So, while it’s fine to pop down some paper if it makes you feel better, rest assured: you won’t catch an STI in the loo.

What About Towels and Bedding?

STIs don’t typically spread through towels or sheets either.
The germs that cause STIs need specific conditions (like moisture and warmth from the human body) to survive. By the time someone else uses the towel, those germs are long gone.

That said, it’s always good hygiene to use your own towel, mainly to avoid skin infections like ringworm or bacterial rashes, not STIs.

And Hot Tubs?

Hot tubs can spread some things… but not the ones you might think.
Warm water is great for relaxing, but not so much for STI transmission. Chlorine and heat kill most viruses and bacteria.

However, sitting in a poorly maintained hot tub can sometimes lead to skin or urinary infections, not sexually transmitted, but still unpleasant! Always make sure hot tubs are properly cleaned and chlorinated.

So, How Do You Catch an STI?

STIs are passed through unprotected sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. Some infections (like herpes or HPV) can also be spread through skin-to-skin contact in the genital area, even without penetration.

The best way to protect yourself is simple:

• Use condoms or internal condoms every time
• Get tested regularly – especially if you have new or multiple partners

You can order free, discreet STI test kits to your home through our online portal:
Order your free STI test kit here

And if you’re 16–24, you can get free condoms through the eC-Card scheme – either via the app or in person at participating venues.
Find out more about the E-C-Card here.

The Bottom Line

You don’t need to worry about catching STIs from toilets, towels, or hot tubs – that’s all rubbish.
Focus your energy on what really matters: safe sex, regular testing, and open conversations about sexual health.

Because when you know the facts, you can protect yourself and your peace of mind.

Visit essexsexualhealthservice.org.uk for confidential advice, testing, and support.