Flushing the toilet can release a ‘plume’ of breathable pathogens – and closing the lid won’t stop their escape
Summary
A study found that flushing toilets releases tiny particles called aerosols into the air, which can carry germs harmful to people. Closing the toilet lid helps reduce but does not fully stop these particles from escaping into the air.Key Facts
- Toilet flushing creates turbulence that sends tiny water droplets containing microbes into the air.
- These particles can stay in the air for at least 20 seconds near adult breathing height.
- The study reviewed 22 previous studies on toilet aerosols and was published in the journal Science of the Total Environment.
- Closing the toilet lid reduces aerosol spread but does not completely stop it.
- Larger flush volumes and more turbulent water cause more aerosol particles to be released.
- Aerosols may carry harmful pathogens like legionella, influenza, and norovirus.
- The effects of ventilation and lid position on aerosol levels are still unclear.
- People with weak immune systems are at higher risk from these pathogens, especially in settings like hospitals.
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