Bathroom etiquette is often discussed, but not enough, as many bacteria and viruses thrive in the room. Most may know this, but others do not, and that is to close the toilet lid before flushing. It is a simple task, yet many overlook it, which is why this article will hopefully inform you of the importance of closing the lid before flushing, along with other ways to limit bacterial growth in the restroom.
There is no superb way of saying this, but when flushing, poop and pee fly everywhere, arriving on floors, countertops, and even your toothbrush (eww). These aerosolized droplets of bacteria and viruses “can end up as far as 6 feet from the toilet” and “shutting the lid before flushing can prevent these aerosols from getting out into the room”, says Jason Tetro, a microbiologist and author of The Germ Code and The Germ Files; although it might seem like a germ-proof method, it is not fully effective.
This schematic allows for visualization of the bacteria movement when flushing. The toilet on the left provides an example of a closed lid demonstrating how the debris moves down and away, whereas the toilet on the right depicts an open toilet lid spreading the plumes all across the room. From my point it seems like there’s a clear winner, and that is to close the toilet lid when there is one. Furthermore, it is free to do (yes, I did just say free), takes minimal effort (literally one finger), plus it minimizes the bacteria spread in the bathroom.
Since closing the lid does not block every germ from entering onto every surface, I will also share some other ways you can limit bacterial growth within the bathroom.
- After pooping, double-flush, as it reduces bacterial levels, according to a study that compared E. coli levels in toilet water after each flush.
- Wipe down bathroom surfaces frequently using a cleanser or even just warm, soapy water to get all the nooks and crannies, like the toilet seat, counters, and handles.
- Once a week, clean your toilet with a disinfectant like a bleach-based bathroom cleaner; get those nasty germs outta there!
- Be strict about washing your hands, as it is a great way to spread bacteria, so be sure to wash your hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. Sing the ABC’s or your favorite song while you’re at it.
- Please, if you were to do one thing on this list, do the easiest one of getting your toothbrush out of the line of fire, or at least 6 feet away.
In the end, please take a second before you flush to simply close the toilet lid, as you just took some X amount of time to read this article ( I know you can do it!).
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