How to Use a Toilet Correctly
We use the toilet every day and it functions automatically. But there are a few small details that many of us, most likely, are not aware of. Meanwhile, mistakes in using a toilet can be quite dangerous.
5-Minute Crafts would like to tell you about how to use a toilet correctly.
How to sit
There are many theories about how to properly sit on the toilet. Experts recommend the following:
- You need to sit on the toilet so that your knees are higher than your hips. If necessary, use a foot stool or any other flat, stable object.
- Lean forward and place your elbows on your knees.
- Relax and bulge out your stomach.
- Straighten your spine.
Squatting on the toilet is not a good idea. This position can be hard on the pelvic floor muscles.
How long to use a toilet
Each of us spends a certain amount of time on the toilet. Some people try to do this quickly, while others can stay there for an hour.
Sitting on the toilet for too long can lead to excessive straining. And this, in turn, can provoke pressure on the rectum and cause hemorrhoids. While sitting on the toilet, avoid distracting yourself.
How to flush a toilet properly
There is only one sure way to flush a toilet properly. This must be done strictly with the seat lowered and the lid closed. The fact is that germs from the toilet can be released up to 10 inches above the toilet seat with each flush. Then they can settle on the floor and other surfaces of the bathroom. This is not safe because these germs and bacteria can carry infectious diseases.
Keeping the lid closed while flushing the toilet will reduce the spread of germs. But don’t forget to wash your hands even after flushing the toilet this way. Contaminated water droplets can also be found on the toilet lid and other surfaces.
How to keep your toilet clean
It’s wrong to think that after you’ve flushed the toilet it becomes clean. Experts recommend using disinfectants that will provide a cleaner flush, and cleaning the toilet with chemicals regularly.
There are many chemicals that will not only keep your toilet and urinal clean but also protect them from limescale and bacteria. For example, toilet rim blocks provide a cleaner flush, while a special thick gel disinfects the toilet bowl.
Don’t forget to clean the toilet seat. If you need to quickly wipe it, use special wipes. However, don’t neglect a more thorough cleaning.
- To clean the toilet, take a pair of rubber gloves, paper towels, a cleaning agent, and a bucket of warm water.
- Pour the cleaning agent into the water and mix.
- Dip a paper towel in some water, wring out the excess liquid, and wipe both sides of the lid.
- Then wipe both sides of the toilet ring in the same way. If necessary, use some more cleaner.
- Pay more attention to hard-to-reach places between the toilet seat hinges.
How to wash your hands correctly
According to a study, almost half of people sometimes skip washing their hands after using the toilet, even though doing so can help prevent the spread of various diseases, such as E. coli and the flu.
How to wash your hands after using the toilet:
- Turn on the water and wet your hands.
- Use soap or another hand wash.
- Lather all over your hands and in-between the fingers.
- Wash your hands with soap for 20 seconds.
- Wash off the soap with clean water.
- Dry your hands with a clean towel or use an air dryer.
General toilet rules
- Close the toilet door. It doesn’t matter where you use the toilet: at home or in the office. This is a good habit that not only gives you privacy but also shows your respect to other people.
- Wipe properly. It doesn’t matter what you use, whether it be toilet paper or wet wipes. Always wipe from front to back, as this can help prevent urinary tract infections.
- Avoid splashes. Try to position yourself correctly on the toilet so that there are no splashes during the process.
- Make sure the toilet is clean. Inspect the toilet and, if necessary, clean the seat. If you stained it yourself, be sure to wipe it away. You’ll keep it clean this way and show respect to others.
- Flush after use. If you or someone around you tends to forget to flush the toilet, you can put up a sign on the wall.
- Use a toilet brush if necessary. Add a little detergent, use a brush, and flush the toilet.
- Put the toilet seat down or close the lid.
- Wash your hands. Wash your hands with soap and water after using the toilet to help prevent the spread of germs.
- Replace the toilet roll. If the roll has finished, replace it with a new one. Think about others. It can be quite frustrating not to find toilet paper where it should be.