I have begun to do the same thing. Not quite a fanatic about cleanliness but really try to pay attention to it.
We were taught good hygiene by both our parents and I have always done the normal things but since always using the disinfecting towels at the front of most stores to clean the handles of shopping carts, doing the same as you suggest if using a public toilet and not just washing my hands but washing thoroughly has paid off.
I no longer seem to come down with a cold etc. like I used to. My late wife was also very good about cleanliness.
Sorry for your loss. But there is some irony in that statement.