Science
Flushing toilets releases airborne particles despite closed lids, review finds
Toilet flushing launches airborne particles into breathing zones, though risks for healthy households remain low, according to The Guardian.
The short version
- A review of 22 studies shows flushing sends airborne particles into the breathing zone where they can remain for at least 20 seconds.[The Guardian]
- Lid position and ventilation showed uncertain impacts on stopping aerosol release, though closing the lid is advised as a precaution.[The Guardian]
- Researchers noted household residents face minimal risk unless someone is immunocompromised.[The Guardian]
Key facts
- Flinders University researchers published a review of 22 studies on toilet-generated aerosols in Science of the Total Environment.[The Guardian]
- Flushing toilets disperses particles into the breathing zone of adults that linger in the air for at least 20 seconds.[The Guardian]
- Lead author Lira Adiyani advised lowering the lid as a precautionary step despite evidence that it does not entirely halt escaping aerosols.[The Guardian]
- Co-author Harriet Whiley noted healthy individuals need not worry at home unless an immunocompromised person lives there.[The Guardian]
What remains uncertain
- The review found that the exact effects of bathroom ventilation and whether the toilet lid is open or shut remain unclear.[The Guardian]
- Existing reports offer conflicting evidence on whether Covid-19 transmits through toilet-generated aerosols.[The Guardian]
Sources
Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.