When you flush a toilet, the swirling water that removes your waste from the bowl also mixes with small particles of that waste, shooting aerosolized feces into the air.
Closing the toilet lid before flushing is a simple habit that can have a significant impact on maintaining a clean and hygienic bathroom environment.
Here are some reasons why you should make it a habit to close the toilet lid before flushing:
- Prevents the Spread of Germs: When you flush the toilet without closing the lid, tiny droplets of water and waste can spread into the air, carrying bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms with them. Closing the lid helps contain these droplets and prevents them from spreading into the air, reducing the risk of infection.
- Reduces Cross-Contamination: When you flush the toilet with the lid up, the toilet plume (the spray of water and waste) can spread onto nearby surfaces, including the toilet seat, handle, and surrounding areas. Closing the lid helps prevent this cross-contamination and keeps the toilet area cleaner.
- Keeps Your Bathroom Clean: Closing the lid before flushing helps keep your bathroom clean and hygienic by containing the toilet plume and preventing it from spreading onto surrounding surfaces. This is especially important in public restrooms, where germs and bacteria can spread quickly.
- Reduces the Risk of Disease: By closing the lid before flushing, you can reduce the risk of disease transmission. This is especially important for people with weakened immune systems, such as the elderly, young children, and those with chronic illnesses.
Closing the toilet lid before flushing is a simple habit that can have a significant impact on maintaining a clean and hygienic bathroom environment.
It’s a small step that can make a big difference in preventing the spread of germs, reducing cross-contamination, and keeping your bathroom clean.
http://www.businessinsider.com/flushing-toilet-seat-up-sprays-water-germs-2016-3