Closing Toilet Lid Doesn't Prevent Spread of Viral Particles, Study Finds
Disinfecting the Toilet, Toilet Water and Nearby Surfaces is Key to Reducing Spread of Germs
- Closing the toilet lid does not prevent the spread of viral particles during flushing, according to a new study.
- The research found that microscopic viral particles spread to the floor and nearby restroom surfaces whether the toilet lid is up or down.
- The only effective way to reduce the spread of viral pathogens is to disinfect the toilet, toilet water and nearby surfaces.
- Germs can survive on bathroom surfaces for about 30 minutes after a flush.
- Experts advise against keeping products such as your toothbrush and cosmetics out in the open and using your phone in the bathroom.