Hygiene practices to prevent bacterial spread in bathrooms

To maintain household hygiene and prevent the spread of bacteria, experts recommend keeping bathroom doors closed after use. While some prefer leaving doors open for ventilation, closing them helps prevent microbes, odors, and mold from spreading to other living areas. Using a ventilation fan or window is suggested as a better alternative for keeping the space dry.

Additionally, it is advised to close the toilet lid before flushing. The pressure from flushing can aerosolize bacteria and microorganisms from waste and urine, causing them to linger in the air and settle on personal items like toothbrushes and towels. Microbiologist Dr. Janet Hill notes that while larger droplets may not travel far, very small droplets can remain suspended in the air for a period of time.