The quintessential Indian train journey is an experience of its own. But amidst the scenic views and shared stories, maintaining personal hygiene can be a challenge. Thankfully, two simple items can make all the difference for a cleaner, safer trip.
The Reality of High-Touch Surfaces
Public
transport systems, including trains, are known breeding grounds for germs. Surfaces like door handles, seat armrests, tray tables, window bars, and charging points are touched by countless hands throughout the day. Studies on public transport have found a host of bacteria on these surfaces, including E. coli and Staphylococcus aureus. While Indian Railways has made efforts to improve cleanliness, such as installing over 360,000 bio-toilets, passenger dissatisfaction with hygiene levels persists, particularly concerning dirty toilets and general coach cleanliness. High passenger volumes and inconsistent cleaning schedules mean that you are likely to come into contact with various microbes. This makes personal hygiene not just a matter of comfort, but a key part of staying healthy during your travels.
Hand Sanitiser: Your First Line of Defence
The single most effective way to prevent picking up infections is keeping your hands clean. When soap and water are not readily available—a common scenario on a train—an alcohol-based hand sanitiser is your best friend. The World Health Organization and other health bodies recommend using a sanitiser with at least 60% alcohol content for it to be effective at killing most germs. Alcohol-based sanitisers work quickly, often in as little as 15 seconds, to reduce the number of microbes on your hands. Make it a habit to sanitise your hands after touching common surfaces, before eating or drinking, and after using the washroom. It’s a small, quick step that drastically reduces your risk of transferring germs from a surface to your mouth, nose, or eyes.
Wet Wipes: The Multipurpose Hygiene Hero
Wet wipes are incredibly versatile and serve multiple hygiene purposes beyond just cleaning your hands. They are excellent for a quick 'sponge bath' to freshen up during long, overnight journeys, helping remove sweat and grime and leaving you feeling more comfortable. Their utility extends to cleaning your immediate environment. Before settling in, use an antibacterial wipe to clean your seat, the pull-out tray table where you might place your food or book, the window ledge, and even your mobile phone screen, which collects germs throughout the day. This creates a cleaner personal zone for you and your family, providing peace of mind. They are also useful for cleaning up minor food or drink spills quickly and efficiently.
Navigating the Train Washroom Challenge
Train toilets remain a significant concern for many travellers in India, with complaints about cleanliness and maintenance being common. This is where your hygiene kit becomes indispensable. Use a sanitising wipe to clean the toilet seat, the flush button, and the door latch before you use the facility. Having hand sanitiser is crucial for after-use, as soap may not always be available or hygienic. While bio-toilets have improved track hygiene, the cleanliness inside the cubicle can still be a major issue due to high usage and occasional blockages from improper waste disposal. Being prepared with your own supplies means you don't have to rely on the variable conditions you might find onboard.
