Particle.news

Download on the App Store

Toilet Lid Position Inconsequential in Preventing Viral Spread, Study Finds

Disinfecting toilets found to be the only effective method in preventing virus contamination, challenging long-held assumptions about restroom hygiene.

  • Researchers from the University of Arizona and Reckitt Benckiser found that closing the toilet lid does not prevent the spread of viral particles.
  • The study involved seeding toilets with a harmless virus and flushing with the lid both open and closed, with samples collected from various surfaces.
  • Cleaning with a disinfectant was found to be the only effective method for preventing the spread of the virus.
  • The study suggests that hygiene practices in restrooms, particularly in healthcare settings, need reevaluation.
  • Public health campaigns and toilet design may need to incorporate these findings.
Hero image