Flushing a toilet with the lid open can send microscopic contaminants soaring nearly one meter into the air, posing potential hygiene risks in public restrooms. (Image courtesy of Yuhan-Kimberly, Ltd.)
SEOUL, May 3 (Korea Bizwire) — Flushing a toilet with the lid open can send microscopic contaminants soaring nearly one meter into the air, posing potential hygiene risks in public restrooms, a new joint study by Yuhan-Kimberly and Kookmin University has revealed.
The research, conducted under an industry-academic partnership, found that aerosolized particles generated by toilet flushing can rise up to 92 centimeters and linger in the air for about a minute.
These airborne particles can settle on nearby surfaces, including toilet paper dispensers and restroom walls, raising concerns over possible cross-contamination if they come into contact with viruses or bacteria.
“Without closing the toilet lid, flushing leads to a significant upward spray of droplets, which then spread across surrounding surfaces,” said Professor Kim Hyung-jin of Kookmin University’s Department of Forest and Environmental Sciences. “Such dispersion could facilitate microbial or viral transmission, especially in high-traffic public spaces.”
The study highlighted that many public restrooms use open-bottom toilet paper dispensers, where exposed rolls hang downward—making them more vulnerable to contamination by airborne particles.
Even with the toilet lid closed, researchers found that surfaces, including the seat and surrounding areas, were still susceptible to contamination.
To mitigate these risks, the researchers recommend wiping toilet seats with disinfectant cleaners before use and switching to enclosed toilet paper dispensers that reduce paper exposure.
Yuhan-Kimberly said it plans to promote its hygienic product line, including enclosed “Kleenex Centerpull” dispensers and disinfectant seat cleaners, as part of its broader initiative to improve sanitation awareness and behavior in public restroom use.
“We aim to lead in providing practical hygiene solutions for public restrooms,” said a spokesperson from Yuhan-Kimberly’s Seocho Research Institute, “and we’re committed to fostering safer habits and environments for all users.”
Ashley Song (ashley@koreabizwire.com)
