In our household, we have implemented a rule that mandates closing the toilet lid after each use. This practice not only enhances hygiene but also demonstrates basic courtesy, especially in a shared space. As a woman living with three males, this rule has been particularly beneficial in preventing late-night mishaps, such as nearly falling into an open toilet due to both the seat and lid being left ajar.
Extending Toilet Etiquette
While enforcing this rule has proven somewhat challenging, we’ve made significant progress. However, I’ve realized that our toilet etiquette needs to extend further—specifically, to closing the lid before flushing. The rationale behind this adjustment revolves around a phenomenon known as toilet plume.
Understanding Toilet Plume
Toilet plume refers to the tiny droplets of water that are expelled into the air when the toilet is flushed. This aerosolized mist can contain trace amounts of urine, feces, and other substances from the toilet bowl. According to Dr. Kelly Reynolds, an associate professor of environmental health, the dispersion of these particles can affect a considerable air space within a bathroom.
Microbiologist Dr. Philip Tierno from New York University has indicated that this toilet plume can travel as far as 15 feet. To put that into perspective, that distance exceeds the dimensions of most bathrooms. Unfortunately, this means the bacteria can settle on various surfaces—including sinks, mirrors, and even toothbrushes—potentially contaminating them.
Health Risks Associated with Toilet Plume
Though the thought of toilet plume is undeniably unappealing, one might wonder about its potential health risks. Experts suggest that while toilet plume does carry germs, not all of them are harmful. Dr. Richard Watkins emphasizes that while all pathogens are germs, not all germs cause illness. However, it’s acknowledged that germs such as E. coli, norovirus, and salmonella can occasionally be present.
The current body of research does not definitively establish how often toilet plume leads to illness or the likelihood of aerosolized germs causing sickness. Direct contact with contaminated surfaces poses a higher risk, especially in high-traffic areas like hospitals where flush dynamics differ. Therefore, it’s wise to approach this issue with caution.
Conclusion
In conclusion, although toilet plume may not always pose a significant health risk, it is advisable to adopt the practice of closing the toilet lid when flushing. This is particularly important in a multi-user environment. Even with the lid down, it’s prudent to store personal items like cups and toothbrushes away from potential contamination. Ultimately, implementing the “close the lid when you flush” rule could be a worthwhile endeavor, ensuring a cleaner and safer bathroom atmosphere.
Further Reading
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Summary
Encouraging the practice of closing the toilet lid when flushing can help minimize the spread of toilet plume, which can carry germs and bacteria. Although the health risks are not fully understood, it is a simple precaution that can enhance hygiene in shared bathrooms.