International Toilet Day, observed every year on 19 November, highlights the importance of safe sanitation, clean toilets, and proper hygiene habits. Even today, millions of people worldwide lack access to safe toilets, which leads to infections, malnutrition, and disease outbreaks. To stay healthy, every individual must follow proper toilet hygiene—whether at home, office, school, or public places.
5 essential things everyone should know about toilet hygiene:
1. Handwashing Is the First Line of Defence
About 80% of infectious diseases spread through hands. After using the toilet, washing hands with soap and clean water for at least 20 seconds is crucial. It prevents the spread of diarrheal diseases, stomach infections, flu, and other germs.
2. Clean the Toilet Seat and Flush Handle Regularly
The toilet seat, flush handle, and door knobs are high-touch surfaces where bacteria and viruses accumulate. They should be cleaned daily using disinfectant or phenyl to reduce infection risk in the household.
3. Always Close the Lid Before Flushing
Flushing with an open lid causes “toilet plume”—a spray of germs that can travel up to 6 feet and settle on nearby surfaces like toothbrushes, towels, and shelves. Closing the lid helps contain the spread of harmful bacteria.
4. Keep Toilets Well-Ventilated
A poorly ventilated bathroom allows moisture and germs to stay in the air. Keeping an exhaust fan on, using natural ventilation, and ensuring dryness helps reduce mould, foul smell, and bacterial growth.
5. Maintain Personal Hygiene Inside the Toilet
Small habits go a long way in maintaining health:
- Use tissue or water to clean properly
- Avoid touching surfaces unnecessarily
- Dispose of sanitary waste and diapers properly
- Wear slippers inside the bathroom
- Keep personal items (razor, toothbrush) away from the toilet area
Why It Matters
Promoting toilet hygiene helps prevent diseases like typhoid, cholera, stomach infections, UTIs, and fungal infections. With International Toilet Day 2025, the focus is on ensuring clean, safe, and accessible toilets for all—a basic human right.
