Does closing the toilet lid when flushing reduce the spread of germs?

A comprehensive study has shed light on the transmission dynamics of viruses in restroom environments, focusing on the impact of toilet lid closure during flushing and the effectiveness of toilet cleaning protocols. This research, conducted by a team of environmental scientists, reveals critical insights into how viral particles can spread within bathroom spaces, posing a risk to residents and staff alike.

For years, closing the toilet lid before flushing has been recommended as a measure to reduce the spread of aerosolised particles. Surprisingly, the study reveals that this practice may not significantly reduce the contamination of restroom surfaces with viral particles. Testing with bacteriophage MS2 as a surrogate for enteric viruses showed that the position of the toilet lid (up or down) did not notably impact the level of surface contamination in bathrooms. More importantly, the research highlights the effectiveness of cleaning practices. When toilets were cleaned with a disinfectant, a significant reduction in viral contamination was observed, not just in the toilet bowl water but also on the toilet brush used for cleaning. This points to the necessity of using appropriate cleaning agents and protocols to mitigate the risk of virus transmission through bathroom surfaces.

For care homes, these findings emphasise the need for stringent cleaning protocols that go beyond mere surface cleaning. Regular and thorough disinfection of all bathroom surfaces, including toilet bowls, seats, handles, and even cleaning tools, is crucial. The use of effective disinfectants can significantly lower the risk of viral spread within washrooms.

Enhanced Washroom Cleaning Practices

• Regular Disinfection: Ensure that all washroom surfaces are regularly disinfected with hospital-grade cleaning agents, paying special attention to high-touch areas.
• Educate Staff and Residents: Provide training on proper hygiene practices and the importance of frequent handwashing, especially after using the restroom.
• Re-evaluate Cleaning Tools: Use disposable cleaning materials where possible or ensure that reusable items are disinfected after each use.
• Ventilation: Maintain good ventilation in restrooms to reduce the concentration of aerosolised particles.

By incorporating the insights from recent research into your hygiene protocols, you can significantly reduce the risk of viral transmission in your washrooms. Embracing rigorous cleaning practices and educating staff on the importance of hygiene are steps forward in protecting our most vulnerable populations in care homes.

Where To Buy Disinfectants

For those looking to enhance their care home's washroom cleanliness with effective and reliable disinfectants, Gompels offers a solution that aligns perfectly with the latest research and hygiene standards. The Soclean Antibacterial Washroom Cleaner, available in a convenient 5-litre pack of two, is designed specifically for the high demands of care homes. Its powerful antibacterial formula ensures thorough cleaning, targeting the germs and bacteria that pose health risks in communal washrooms. Compliant with key standards such as BS EN1276, EN13704, and EN14476, this cleaner ensures a high level of sanitation for bathroom floors, baths, showers, and tiles. It can be used neat or diluted, providing flexibility and efficiency in your cleaning regime.

Colour Coded Cleaning

Utilising colour-coded cleaning equipment, such as red mops and buckets available from Gompels, can significantly reduce the risk of cross-contamination between different areas of a facility. Red cleaning equipment is traditionally used for high-risk areas such as bathrooms, ensuring that these items are not mistakenly used in lower-risk areas. By adopting a colour-coded system, care homes can streamline their cleaning processes, ensuring a safer environment for both residents and staff.