International Toilet Day 2025: 5 things everyone should know about toilet hygiene

News Topical, Digital Desk : Maintaining personal hygiene is essential for staying healthy, and toilet hygiene is a crucial part of this. People often don't discuss it openly, but it's crucial for our health. It directly affects not only our own health but also the health of our families. 

Poor toilet habits can lead to the spread of harmful bacteria and viruses, which can cause serious illnesses like diarrhea, urine infections, and typhoid. On this International Toilet Day, let's learn five important tips on toilet hygiene.   

Cleaning in the right direction is essential

Maintaining hygiene after using the restroom is the first rule. Be careful not to accidentally spread germs to other parts of your body while cleaning. To do this, remember:

• Front to back - Women should especially follow this rule. Cleaning should always be done from the vagina toward the anus (front to back). Cleaning from back to front can introduce harmful bacteria like E. coli into the urinary tract and cause an infection (UTI).
• Proper use of toilet paper: Use toilet paper of the correct thickness and quality to prevent tearing and contamination. Immediately flush used tissues after cleaning.

The right way to flush

Flushing isn't just a simple push of a button, and it requires careful handling.

• Flush with a lid - Whenever you flush the toilet, be sure to close the lid. Failure to do so can cause millions of germs to be released into the air along with the flushing water and accumulate on items like toothbrushes, towels, soap, and other items, inviting illness.
• Flush immediately – Flush immediately after use to reduce the risk of foul odor and spread of bacteria.
• Don't forget to wash your hands -  This is the simplest and most important rule, yet many people don't take it seriously. Washing your hands after using the restroom is essential.
• Wash with soap and water - Simply rubbing your hands with water won't do the trick. Use soap to kill germs. Clean your hands thoroughly, including between your fingers, under your nails, and between your thumbs.
• At least 20 seconds – The ideal time to wash your hands is at least 20 seconds. Rub thoroughly during this time.
• Sanitizer – If soap and water are not available, you can use alcohol-based hand sanitizer, but it is not as effective as soap.

Regular cleaning of the toilet

Not only is personal hygiene important, but regular toilet cleaning is also equally important. A dirty toilet becomes a breeding ground for germs.

• Use disinfectant – Clean the toilet seat, flush button, door handle and tap with a good disinfectant at least twice a week.
• Cleaning with a toilet cleaner: Use a good toilet cleaner and a brush to clean the toilet bowl. After using the brush, rinse it thoroughly to prevent germs from growing.

Do not share personal items

There are some toilet items that shouldn't be shared with anyone. This practice significantly reduces the risk of spreading infection.

• Keep your towels separate – Each family member should have a separate towel to wipe their hands after using the toilet. Wet towels are a perfect breeding ground for bacteria.
• Don't share toiletries – Don't share loofahs, soap (bar soap), and other personal items with anyone.

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