Common Toilet Mistakes Millions Make and How to Fix Them
Using the toilet is something we all do every day without giving it much thought. However, you might be surprised to learn that millions of people are making some big mistakes when it comes to their bathroom habits. These small errors can lead to health issues, plumbing problems, and even unnecessary expenses. The good news? Most of these mistakes are easy to fix! Here’s what you might be doing wrong—and how to correct it.
1. Sitting the Wrong Way
Yes, there’s actually a right and wrong way to sit on the toilet! Many people sit in a slouched position, which can make it harder to go and lead to straining. The best way to sit is with your knees slightly higher than your hips, which mimics a squatting position.
Fix it:
Use a small stool or footrest to elevate your feet while sitting. This helps align your bowels properly and makes things much easier.
2. Flushing with the Lid Open
Flushing with the toilet lid open sends a spray of bacteria and germs into the air, covering everything from your toothbrush to your towels. This is known as the “toilet plume” effect, and it can spread harmful bacteria throughout your bathroom.
Fix it:
Always close the lid before flushing. It’s a simple habit that can keep your bathroom cleaner and reduce exposure to germs.
3. Using Too Much Toilet Paper
Many people use way more toilet paper than necessary, leading to clogged pipes and plumbing issues. Not only is this bad for your home’s plumbing, but it also wastes paper and harms the environment.
Fix it:
Fold, don’t bunch! Using fewer sheets and folding them allows for better coverage and efficiency. If possible, consider using a bidet for a cleaner, eco-friendly alternative.
4. Not Cleaning Your Toilet Brush Properly
Toilet brushes help keep your bowl clean, but if you’re not cleaning the brush itself, you could be spreading germs every time you use it. Many people put the brush back in the holder while it’s still wet, creating a breeding ground for bacteria.
Fix it:
After using the toilet brush, let it dry completely before placing it back in its holder. Rinse it with disinfectant regularly to keep it sanitary.
5. Holding It In Too Long
We’ve all been guilty of ignoring nature’s call when we’re busy, but holding in your pee or poop for too long can cause issues like constipation, bladder infections, and even damage to your pelvic floor muscles over time.
Fix it:
Listen to your body and go when you need to. Regular bathroom habits help keep your digestive system functioning smoothly.
6. Wiping the Wrong Way
Many people don’t realize that wiping from back to front (instead of front to back) can increase the risk of spreading bacteria, especially for women. This can lead to urinary tract infections (UTIs) and irritation.
Fix it:
Always wipe from front to back to keep bacteria away from sensitive areas. If you use wipes, make sure they are flushable and septic-safe.
7. Ignoring Strange Noises or Slow Flushes
If your toilet is making odd noises or flushing slower than usual, don’t ignore it! This could be a sign of a clog or a problem with your plumbing system.
Fix it:
Use a plunger or drain cleaner if you notice a slow flush. If the issue persists, call a plumber to check for bigger problems. Regular maintenance can save you from costly repairs.
8. Using Harsh Cleaning Chemicals Too Often
Many people use strong bleach or chemical-based cleaners in their toilet bowls every day, thinking it keeps things extra clean. However, overusing harsh chemicals can wear down the toilet’s inner workings and damage pipes over time.
Fix it:
Use natural alternatives like baking soda and vinegar to clean your toilet. They’re just as effective without harming your plumbing.
9. Flushing Things That Shouldn’t Go Down the Toilet
It may seem convenient to flush things like wet wipes, cotton swabs, or even dental floss, but these items don’t break down like toilet paper and can cause serious plumbing issues.
Fix it:
Only flush toilet paper and human waste—nothing else. Even “flushable” wipes can contribute to clogs, so it’s best to toss them in the trash.
10. Not Drinking Enough Water
Believe it or not, what you do outside the bathroom affects your bathroom habits. If you’re not drinking enough water, your stool can become hard and difficult to pass, leading to constipation.
Fix it:
Stay hydrated! Drinking enough water throughout the day keeps your digestive system working properly and makes going to the bathroom much easier.
Final Thoughts
Toilets may seem simple, but using them the wrong way can cause health issues, plumbing problems, and unnecessary stress. By making a few small changes, you can improve your bathroom experience, protect your health, and even save money on repairs.
Now that you know the biggest toilet mistakes, which ones are you guilty of? Don’t worry—we’ve all made some of these errors! The important thing is to start making better habits today.
