Dear Annie: How can I get people who visit me to wash their hands after they use the bathroom? I have provided pump soap so they don’t have to use a bar of soap. I have put in decorative paper towels so they don’t have to use a cloth towel and a sign that says “Wash your hands.”
What else can I do? What can I say to them that won’t be insulting or hurt their feelings?
I know they don’t wash because they are too fast about coming out, and if I go in after them, the sink is dry and nothing is in the garbage.
I hate it that they then touch everything in my house, and I have to go around disinfecting when they leave.
I am not a fanatic, but this really upsets me.
— Grossed Out
Dear Grossed Out: I’m grossed out just reading your letter. You can only bring a horse to water, but you can’t force it to drink. If it bothers you that much, then don’t invite them back. Or make a comment just like you did in the letter talking about the importance of washing your hands.
“How Can I Forgive My Cheating Partner?” is out now! Annie Lane’s second anthology — featuring favorite columns on marriage, infidelity, communication and reconciliation — is available as a paperback and e-book. Visit http://www.creatorspublishing.com for more information. Send your questions for Annie Lane to dearannie@creators.com.
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