Your bathroom break is often a moment of solitude, and it’s common to take your phone along for some quick scrolling. But is this practice unhygienic? We investigated.
The bathroom serves as a refuge for many parents. Whether it’s to steal a few moments away from kids or to escape from a partner, it’s a space where we sometimes let our emotions flow—whether it’s cursing, venting, or simply scrolling through our phones. This led us to ponder a question, especially with ongoing discussions about cleanliness: is bringing your phone into the bathroom a disgusting habit?
Of Course It’s Nasty
It’s no secret that phones can harbor germs, and experts agree. In a conversation with health expert Dr. Alex Carter, who specializes in microbiology, he emphasized, “You really shouldn’t bring your phone into the bathroom if you are concerned about the transmission of germs and fecal matter.”
But We Do It Anyway
“Most of us are guilty of using our phones in the bathroom. I admit I do it regularly,” says Dr. Emily Johnson, a researcher focused on environmental health. “When I enter the bathroom, I try not to touch anything too contaminated, just my clothes and phone. I always recommend putting your phone away before wiping or flushing.”
Dr. Johnson points out that the most critical moment is not letting your phone touch potentially contaminated surfaces while you handle your business. “This is when the most germs can spread, especially when you flush or wash your hands,” she advises. So when it’s time to wipe and flush, it’s time to tuck your phone back in your pocket—or at least wrap it in a clean towel before placing it somewhere safe.
Let’s be honest: reading on your phone while in the bathroom has become a modern ritual, much like the traditional practice of reading printed material. It’s also not uncommon for new moms to find themselves pumping in a bathroom. Just remember to follow sanitation guidelines similar to those for pumping (clean hands and avoiding placing any parts on bathroom surfaces).
Washing Your Hands is Crucial
“Washing your hands after using the bathroom is the most crucial step,” emphasizes Dr. Johnson. It gives you a few extra moments of peace before diving back into family life.
One last thing to consider: a study from the University of Arizona revealed that the average smartphone carries ten times more bacteria than a typical toilet seat. This statistic isn’t necessarily indicative of phones that have been in the bathroom; it reflects the average phone. So, Dr. Johnson suggests, “Make it a habit to disinfect your phone occasionally.”
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In summary, while bringing your phone into the bathroom might be a common practice, it’s essential to be aware of the hygiene implications. Keeping your phone clean and washing your hands regularly are simple steps to minimize risks.