December 2000: ROSWELL, GA--Cleaning service providers don't need to be told how important their work is. In case a client or potential client doesn't know, ask them this: "The average office building tenant spends more than three workdays a year in the restroom. Do you know how they spend the rest of their time?"

Towel-and-tissue producer Kimberly-Clark Corp. (NYSE:KMB) is dispensing information on avoiding germs--and telling consumers to look for bathrooms that utilize "no-touch" systems as a way to avoid contact with germs.

The company's Away from Home division is making the following suggestions:

Look for enclosed toilet paper systems that let you touch only the product you need, reducing the potential for cross-contamination. Toilet paper in an enclosed system is also protected from dirt and moisture.

If you have a choice, pick a restroom with no-touch faucets and toilet flushing devices. That way you can use the restroom without touching a lot of handles or levers that may harbor germs.

No-touch paper towel and no-touch soap systems offer the same benefits when washing hands.

Shut the faucet with a paper towel after washing your hands and also use it to open the door handle before throwing it away.

Try not to touch bathroom surfaces after you have washed your hands since germs can be spread to others via restroom fixtures, surfaces, faucets and product dispensers.

Kimberly-Clark is also urging people to wash hands thoroughly.

The company offers germ protection information at its Skin Wellness Institute website.