Importance of Closing Toilet Lid During Flushing Highlighted by Nurse Shanina Knighton
A recent emphasis on bathroom hygiene comes from Shanina Knighton, a research associate professor at the Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing. Knighton has highlighted the significance of weekly cleanings in bathrooms, as well as the importance of proper ventilation and the prevention of a potential contamination source known as the "toilet plume."
The toilet plume, a mixture of water and airborne particles, can contain fecal bacteria and viruses. According to Knighton, flushing with the toilet lid up releases this plume, which can contaminate restroom surfaces and remain airborne for a significant period, posing a risk of infection.
To combat this issue, Knighton advises that it's better to close the toilet lid before flushing. By doing so, the dispersal of airborne particles can be reduced by up to 50%, as suggested in a 2021 study published in *Physics of Fluids*.
In addition to closing the lid, maintaining good hygiene practices is crucial. Regularly disinfecting bathroom surfaces, especially after flushing, can help reduce the presence of lingering microorganisms. Proper ventilation in the bathroom is also essential to help reduce the concentration of airborne contaminants.
Lastly, keeping personal hygiene items, such as toothbrushes, well away from the toilet area and using a cap to allow for air drying can further reduce the chance of bacterial accumulation.
By following these simple steps, you can ensure a cleaner and safer bathroom environment for yourself and others.
Science plays a significant role in health-and-wellness, as demonstrated by Shanina Knighton's research on bathroom hygiene. Her findings emphasize the importance of therapies-and-treatments such as proper ventilation, weekly cleaning, and the practice of closing the toilet lid before flushing to minimize the risk of contamination from the "toilet plume." Moreover, Knighton underscores the importance of nutrition in maintaining overall health, urging individuals to regularly disinfect bathroom surfaces, keep personal hygiene items sanitized, and ensure proper air circulation for a cleaner and safer bathroom environment.
