What Bathroom Habits Are Bad For Your Health?

Flushing the toilet with the lid open can release bacteria and viruses into the air, which can then settle on nearby surfaces.

Sambhav Kumar
Written by: Sambhav KumarUpdated at: May 22, 2023 16:14 IST
What Bathroom Habits Are Bad For Your Health?

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Cleaning your bathroom on a regular basis is crucial, but some bad bathroom practices may unwittingly transmit germs throughout the house.

Maintaining good personal hygiene is essential for a healthy lifestyle, and this includes proper bathroom habits. However, some common bathroom habits can make you seriously ill if not done correctly.

Not Properly Washing Hands After Using The Bathroom

One of the most crucial bathroom habits is washing your hands thoroughly after using the toilet. Failing to do so can lead to the spread of bacteria and viruses such as E.coli, salmonella, and norovirus. These germs can cause diarrhoea, vomiting and other severe illnesses.

Using A Dirty Towel

Using a dirty towel to dry your hands or body can spread germs and bacteria. Moist environments like towels are ideal for bacterial growth, and using the same towel repeatedly without washing can lead to skin infections and other illnesses.

Also read: Can You Get UTI From A Toilet Seat? Dr Cuterus Explains

Scrolling Through Social Media On The Toilet

You probably already know taking your phone into the toilet is a bad idea. 

When one uses the toilet germs, including faecal matter, are released into the air and can land on the surfaces of your phone, leading them to spread outside the bathroom.

Sitting On The Toilet For Too Long

Sitting on the toilet for extended periods can lead to a condition called "toilet bowl syndrome”. This happens when the blood vessels in your legs become compressed, reducing blood flow and causing numbness and tingling sensations. 

Not flushing the toilet with the lid down

Flushing the toilet with the lid open can release bacteria and viruses into the air, which can then settle on nearby surfaces. This can increase the risk of illnesses such as flu, strep throat and other respiratory infections.

Using A Dirty Toilet Brush

Using an unclean toilet brush can spread bacteria and germs onto the toilet bowl, which can then transfer to your skin or other bathroom surfaces. To avoid this, make sure you fully clean the toilet brush after each use and replace it on a regular basis.

Sharing Personal Hygiene Items

Sharing personal hygiene items such as razors, toothbrushes or towels can lead to the spread of germs and bacteria. This can also lead to infections such as staph, strep, and hepatitis. It is essential to keep your personal hygiene items separate and not share them with others.

Also read: Closing The Toilet Lid Before Flushing Prevent COVID-19? Study Answers

Not cleaning bathroom surfaces regularly

Germs and bacteria can live on bathroom surfaces such as sinks, counters and shower stalls. The failure to clean these surfaces on a regular basis increases the risk of illnesses such as E.coli, salmonella and other infections. To prevent the transmission of germs, clean bathroom surfaces on a regular basis, ideally using disinfectants.

Maintaining good bathroom habits is crucial for overall health and well-being. Simple actions like washing hands after using the toilet, using clean towels, and cleaning bathroom surfaces regularly can go a long way in preventing the spread of germs and bacteria. By being mindful of these habits, you can ensure a healthy and hygienic bathroom environment that promotes good health.

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