Many of us have the same bathroom routine we stick to on a daily basis. Practising good hygiene is vital for both our physical and mental wellbeing.
However, certain bathroom habits could pose a significant danger to our health, an expert has warned.
Doctor Donald Grant, GP and senior clinical advisor at the Independent Pharmacy, explained: “Many of our seemingly harmless bathroom habits can actually pose significant health risks.
“From drinking water from questionable sources to multitasking in unsanitary environments, these practices can expose us to harmful bacteria, infections, and other health issues.”
He shared six bathroom habits you should reconsider for this reason.
Sharing or re-using dirty towels
Without washing, towels can become home for various types of bacteria and fungi due to the moist environment and contact with skin cells, Dr Grant said.
He commented: “Reusing these towels can lead to skin and fungal infections while the moisture can cause respiratory issues.
“Generally, it’s advised to clean towels after three to four uses to avoid health risks and ensure towels are sufficiently clean before use.”
Flushing the toilet with the seat up
Dr Grant advised that the simple act of closing the toilet seat before flushing can help contain the spread of germs.
He said: “When the lid is left open, droplets of water can spray onto surfaces such as flooring or the toilet bowl (known as toilet plume).
“These droplets could be contaminated with faecal matter and lead to the spread of bacteria.
“By closing the toilet while flushing, these droplets remain in the toilet, avoiding potential health risks such as E.coli and norovirus.”
Only brushing teeth once a day
The NHS recommends brushing your teeth twice a day.
“Brushing only once daily can result in plaque buildup, potentially leading to cavities, gum disease, and halitosis,” Dr Grant said.
“Poor oral hygiene is also associated with broader health concerns, including cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
“I would advise brushing soon after eating, include flossing for interdental cleaning, and consider mouthwash for comprehensive oral care.”
Drinking water from the bathroom tap
Although drinking water from the bathroom tap might seem harmless, bathroom taps are often less clean than kitchen taps and can harbour bacteria such as E. coli and other contaminants, according to Dr Grant.
He warned: “Also, the pipes leading to bathroom faucets may contain stagnant water and sediments, increasing the risk of ingesting pathogens such as Legionella and Pseudomonas
“To minimise the risk of illness, it is advisable to drink water only from the kitchen tap or a filtered source.”
Using your phone on the toilet
Using an electronic device while sitting on the toilet can result in prolonged sitting in an unhealthy posture, potentially causing haemorrhoids and other gastrointestinal problems.
He added: “Devices taken into a space with a toilet can become contaminated with bacteria from the bathroom environment, increasing the risk of gastrointestinal infections, urinary tract infections, respiratory infections, and skin infections.
“To reduce these risks, I strongly advise against using phones, tablets, or electronic devices in the bathroom or any area with a toilet. Additionally, it’s essential to regularly clean your devices with disinfectant wipes.”
Eating in the bathroom
“Bringing food into the bathroom should be avoided at all costs,” Dr Grant said.
He explained that bathrooms are “prime environments” for bacteria such as E. coli, Salmonella, and viruses to thrive.
“Consuming food in such settings heightens the likelihood of these pathogens contaminating your food, potentially causing foodborne illnesses such as gastroenteritis, salmonellosis, and norovirus infection,” he said.
“It is crucial to consume food in hygienic, designated areas such as the kitchen or dining room. Prior to eating, ensure thorough handwashing to prevent the transfer of bacteria from other surfaces to your food.”
