How to Avoid Spreading Germs After Flushing, According to New Research

We’ve all been taught that flushing the toilet is a simple, harmless action. However, a new study reveals that one of our trusted bathroom habits might actually be spreading more germs than we thought. Whether in public restrooms or at home, we’ve been flushing toilets all wrong. This article explores the findings of the study and shares effective strategies to help maintain a cleaner, safer bathroom environment.

The Experiment.

• Study. The recent study set out to determine what impact closing the toilet lid before flushing has, on reducing the spread of bacteria in bathrooms. It was conducted by scientists from the University of Arizona and Reckitt Benckiser LLC and reported in the American Journal of Infection Control.
• Experiment. The experiment involved adding substitute bacteria for human enteric viruses (viruses that are primarily transmitted via the faecal-oral route, and that cause enteric diseases) to household and public toilet bowls. The toilets were then flushed with the toilet lid closed and open, to determine which method spread less bacteria.
• Result. The results were shocking. Whether the toilet lid was up or down, germs could still contaminate bathroom surfaces just as easily. But cleaning the toilet bowl with a disinfectant reduced toilet bowl contamination by 98%.

What actually happens when you flush a toilet.

When you flush the toilet, millions of aerosolized particles that are undetectable to the naked eye are instantly emitted into the air. This "toilet plume", or germ cloud, can shoot germ particles five or more feet out of the bowl. So any contagious germs dropped into the toilet bowl after using it, can be distributed to floors, walls, sinks and other nearby washroom surfaces, simply through flushing.

So what's the best way to maintain a hygienic bathroom?

Disinfect. Disinfect. Disinfect.

To disinfect means to kill germs on surfaces and objects using disinfectants such as bleach and alcohol solutions, and is the best way to reduce restroom contamination and to kill toilet bowl germs emitted from flushing.

How often should a bathroom be disinfected.

Cleaning and disinfecting the toilet twice a week is the greatest way to reduce the spread of virus particles. But Dr Charles P. Gerba, PhD, a professor of virology at the University of Arizona in Tucson, says that this should be increased to twice a day if someone in the household is sick with gastroenteritis (stomach flu). “We also recommend using disinfecting wipes on the toilet seat and flush handle, as these surfaces will get contaminated after flushing,” he adds.

High-touch bathroom surfaces that need extra attention.

In addition to the toilet seat and handle, other high-touch bathroom surfaces include:

• faucet handles
• light switches
• door handles

These areas can harbor germs and should be disinfected regularly, especially after multiple people use the bathroom.

The impact of soft materials in bathrooms.

Soft materials like towels, bath mats, and shower curtains can absorb and trap germs. These should be washed regularly in hot water to prevent bacteria and viruses from building up. Switching to washable, quick-drying materials is a good strategy for reducing microbial growth.

The link between handwashing and germ prevention.

Handwashing is a simple yet powerful way to stop the spread of germs after using the bathroom.

It’s essential to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds after flushing the toilet. Avoid touching your face, particularly your eyes, nose, and mouth, as this is a common way for germs to enter your body.

By following these easy hygiene practices, you can reduce the spread of harmful germs in your bathroom and avoid the trick of believing common habits are enough. These simple steps will help you create a cleaner, safer environment for your family and give you peace of mind.