Why Closing the Toilet Lid Won’t Stop Viruses (But Might Help With Bacteria)
When you flush a toilet, especially one without a lid, tiny particles from the bowl can be propelled into the air—a phenomenon known as “toilet plume.” This concept has sparked the widespread belief that closing the toilet lid can prevent bacteria and viruses from contaminating bathroom surfaces. But how effective is this in stopping the spread of pathogens, particularly viruses?
The Science Behind Toilet Plume
Toilet plume occurs when the flushing motion creates turbulence in the water, causing aerosolized particles from the toilet bowl to become airborne. These tiny droplets can land on surfaces like counters, sinks, toothbrushes, or even the skin.
In terms of pathogens, two primary categories are relevant: viruses and bacteria.
Viruses: Too Small to Catch?
Viruses, which include common pathogens like norovirus, rotavirus, and even the virus behind COVID-19, are much smaller than bacteria. While closing the toilet lid may reduce the amount of visible splatter, the microscopic size of viruses means they can still escape the confines of the lid.
A virus can range from about 20 nanometers to 400 nanometers in size. For comparison, a single strand of human hair is about 100,000 nanometers thick. Given their size, viruses can travel more easily through tiny gaps in the air around the lid. This makes it difficult for a closed toilet lid to effectively contain them. So, while closing the lid can reduce large droplet splatter, it won’t completely stop viral particles from circulating in the air.
What About Bacteria?
Bacteria are larger than viruses, typically measuring between 1,000 and 5,000 nanometers. This larger size makes it harder for them to spread as far as viruses do, and toilet lids can offer some help in containing them. When the toilet lid is closed, it reduces the distance these bacteria can travel, thereby lowering the chance that they will contaminate surfaces.
- coli, for example, is one bacterium commonly found in human waste. Studies have shown that closing the toilet lid can significantly reduce the spread of this bacteria to surrounding surfaces, as bacteria are more likely to be contained by physical barriers like the toilet lid. This containment can help prevent illnesses caused by contact with bacteria-laden surfaces.
Aerosolized Pathogens and Your Health
While closing the toilet lid might reduce the spread of bacteria, it is not a foolproof method for preventing illness. Both bacteria and viruses can still land on bathroom surfaces and persist for extended periods, especially in moist environments. The best way to safeguard your health isn’t just by closing the toilet lid, but by practicing good bathroom hygiene, such as:
- Handwashing: Properly washing your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds can eliminate most pathogens.
- Regular Cleaning: Disinfect bathroom surfaces frequently, especially after someone is sick.
- Storing Personal Items: Keep toothbrushes, towels, and other personal items stored away in cabinets or drawers to prevent exposure to aerosolized particles.
See the full scientific article from Everyday Health.
Closing the toilet lid can help reduce the spread of bacteria like E. coli, but it’s not as effective at stopping viruses due to their much smaller size. While it’s a good habit to close the lid when flushing, it shouldn’t be your only line of defense. Pairing it with proper hygiene practices and regular cleaning is essential for keeping your bathroom as germ-free as possible.
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