15 Hygiene Tips for New York City Transit Users to Stay Safe

Riding New York City transit exposes you to many germs and bacteria daily. These 15 hygiene tips offer simple, effective ways to stay safe, clean, and healthy during your commute. From hand hygiene to smart clothing choices, this guide helps you navigate the subway and buses with confidence and peace of mind.

Key Takeaways

• Regular hand hygiene: Wash or sanitize hands frequently to reduce germ exposure.
• Avoid touching your face: Prevent germs from entering your body through eyes, nose, or mouth.
• Use protective gear: Masks and gloves can add a layer of defense, especially during flu season.
• Choose appropriate clothing: Wear breathable fabrics and easy-to-clean clothes to maintain cleanliness.
• Disinfect personal items: Clean your phone, keys, and bags often as they carry many germs.
• Maintain distance when possible: Keep some space from others to minimize contact with airborne pathogens.
• Stay informed and prepared: Follow health advisories and carry essential hygiene supplies during your commute.

Introduction

New York City’s transit system is one of the busiest in the world, with millions of people using subways, buses, and trains every day. While it’s the quickest way to get around, it also means sharing close quarters with many people — and germs. Keeping good hygiene on transit is essential to protect yourself from common illnesses like colds, flu, and other infections.

Fortunately, staying clean and healthy on the subway or bus doesn’t require complicated routines or special equipment. Simple habits and a bit of preparation can go a long way. In this article, we’ll share 15 hygiene tips specifically for New York City transit users. These tips will help you feel safer, reduce your risk of getting sick, and make your daily commute more comfortable.

Whether you’re a daily commuter or an occasional rider, incorporating these easy practices into your routine can improve your overall well-being. Let’s dive in and learn how to stay safe while navigating the city’s public transit.

1. Prioritize Hand Hygiene

Wash Your Hands Often

Hands are one of the main ways germs spread. Washing your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is the best way to remove bacteria and viruses. Try to do this after touching surfaces like handrails, ticket machines, or subway poles.

Carry Hand Sanitizer

If soap and water aren’t available, use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Keep a small bottle in your bag or pocket for quick use after your commute. This is especially helpful when you need to eat or touch your face.

Use Contactless Payment

Whenever possible, use contactless MetroCard or mobile payments. This reduces the number of times you need to touch machines or cash, minimizing contact with shared surfaces.

2. Avoid Touching Your Face

Be Mindful of Your Hands

It’s easy to touch your eyes, nose, or mouth without thinking, but these are the gateways for germs to enter your body. Try to keep your hands away from your face while riding the subway or bus.

Use a Tissue or Sleeve

If you need to scratch your nose or adjust your glasses, use a clean tissue or your sleeve instead of your fingers. This small habit can significantly reduce your risk of infection.

3. Wear Protective Gear When Necessary

Use Masks During Flu Season or Outbreaks

Wearing a face mask can help reduce the spread of respiratory droplets, especially during flu season or if there’s a contagious outbreak. Choose comfortable masks that fit snugly over your nose and mouth.

Consider Gloves for High-Touch Surfaces

Some commuters prefer wearing disposable gloves to avoid direct contact with frequently touched surfaces. If you choose this, remember to dispose of gloves properly and avoid touching your face.

4. Choose Breathable, Easy-to-Clean Clothing

Wear Comfortable Fabrics

Transit rides can be long and crowded. Wearing breathable fabrics like cotton helps you stay comfortable and reduces sweat buildup, which can harbor bacteria.

Opt for Clothes You Can Wash Easily

Consider wearing clothes that can be washed frequently and quickly. This helps you maintain cleanliness after daily commutes, especially during hot or humid weather.

5. Disinfect Your Personal Items Regularly

Clean Your Phone and Accessories

Your phone and earbuds are often in contact with your face and hands. Use disinfectant wipes designed for electronics to clean them daily or after each commute.

Sanitize Bags and Wallets

Bags and wallets pick up germs from surfaces and your hands. Wipe down handles and outer surfaces regularly to keep them clean.

6. Maintain Physical Distance When Possible

Choose Less Crowded Cars or Times

Try to travel during off-peak hours if possible. Less crowded trains and buses mean fewer people to share germs with.

Stand Away From Others

When waiting or riding, keep some space between yourself and other passengers. Even a small distance can reduce exposure to airborne germs.

7. Carry Essential Hygiene Supplies

Pack a Small Hygiene Kit

Include items like hand sanitizer, disinfectant wipes, tissues, and a spare mask. Having these ready means you’re prepared for any situation during your commute.

Stay Hydrated and Nourished

Bringing a water bottle and a healthy snack helps maintain your immune system and energy throughout the day. Check out tips on staying active and healthy in NYC to complement your hygiene habits.

8. Practice Respiratory Etiquette

Cover Coughs and Sneezes

Always use a tissue or your elbow to cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing. Dispose of tissues properly and sanitize your hands afterward.

Encourage Others Politely

If you notice someone not covering coughs or sneezes, a polite reminder can help maintain a healthier environment for everyone.

9. Avoid Eating on Transit

Save Meals for After Your Ride

Eating on the subway or bus means touching food with your hands, which may not be clean. It’s best to eat before or after your commute to minimize risk.

Use Hand Sanitizer Before and After Eating

If you must eat on the go, sanitize your hands thoroughly before and after to reduce contamination.

10. Clean Your Shoes After Commuting

Wipe or Change Shoes

Subway floors can carry dirt and germs. Consider wiping your shoes or changing into clean footwear when you arrive at your destination to keep your living space cleaner.

Use Shoe Covers if Necessary

Some commuters use disposable shoe covers during bad weather or flu season to reduce germ transfer.

11. Avoid Crowded Entry and Exit Points

Use Less Busy Stations or Exits

When possible, choose subway entrances or bus stops that are less crowded. This reduces close contact and waiting times.

Plan Your Route Ahead

Knowing your transit schedule and stations helps you avoid peak times and crowded areas, making your commute safer and more pleasant.

12. Keep Your Commuter Bag Clean

Regularly Wash or Wipe Down Bags

Backpacks and purses touch many surfaces daily. Clean straps and outer surfaces weekly with disinfectant wipes to reduce germ buildup.

Organize Your Bag to Avoid Overcrowding

A well-organized bag reduces the need to rummage and touch multiple items, helping maintain cleanliness.

13. Monitor Your Health Closely

Stay Home If You Feel Unwell

If you’re sick, avoid using public transit to prevent spreading illness. Opt for remote work or alternative transportation if you can.

Seek Medical Advice Early

At the first signs of infection, consult a healthcare provider to get timely treatment and reduce complications.

14. Use Technology to Stay Updated

Follow Health Alerts and Transit Updates

Sign up for alerts about health advisories and transit service changes. Being informed helps you adjust your routine and stay safe.

Use Apps for Contactless Travel

Many transit apps offer features like contactless payments and real-time updates, reducing physical contact with shared surfaces.

15. Practice Good Skincare After Your Commute

Cleanse Your Face Thoroughly

After a subway ride, wash your face to remove dirt and germs. This helps prevent skin irritation and keeps your skin healthy.

Moisturize to Protect Your Skin

Commuting can dry out your skin. Use a good moisturizer to maintain skin barrier function. For seasonal skincare tips, check out 10 Essential Winter Skincare Tips For New York City Residents or 15 Essential Summer Skincare Tips For NYC Walkers In Heat.

Conclusion

Commuting in New York City’s transit system comes with unique hygiene challenges, but with mindful habits, you can protect yourself from many common germs and illnesses. These 15 hygiene tips offer practical, easy steps to keep you safe, clean, and healthy every time you ride.

Remember, good hygiene is a team effort. When you take care of yourself, you also help protect those around you. Incorporate these tips into your daily routine and enjoy a safer, more comfortable commute in the city that never sleeps.

For more on staying healthy and active in NYC, explore our guides like 15 Ways To Stay Active In New York City and How To Stay Fit In New York City.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I sanitize my hands while using NYC transit?

It’s best to sanitize your hands after touching high-contact surfaces like poles, seats, or ticket machines. Ideally, sanitize before eating or touching your face and after leaving transit vehicles.

Are masks still necessary on NYC public transit?

Masks are recommended during flu season or outbreaks to reduce the spread of airborne germs. Wearing a mask also protects others if you are feeling unwell.

What’s the best way to clean my phone after a commute?

Use disinfectant wipes made for electronics or a soft cloth with alcohol-based cleaner. Clean your phone daily or after particularly crowded commutes.

Can wearing gloves on the subway prevent illness?

Gloves can reduce direct contact with germs but only if used properly. Avoid touching your face and dispose of gloves after use to prevent contamination.

Is it safe to eat or drink while on the subway?

Eating on transit is not recommended since your hands may carry germs. If you must eat, sanitize your hands before and after to reduce risk.

How can I protect my skin from irritation due to commuting?

Wash your face after your commute to remove dirt and germs, then moisturize to keep your skin healthy. Seasonal skincare tips can also help maintain skin barrier function.