Taking your phone to the toilet may seem harmless, especially when you want to scroll through social media, watch videos or reply to messages. However, health experts advise against turning toilet time into phone time. Here are three reasons to reconsider the habit.
1. It Can Make You Spend Too Long On The Toilet
One of the biggest problems is that your phone can distract you and make you remain seated longer than necessary. Cleveland Clinic advises people to limit the amount of time they spend sitting on the toilet because prolonged sitting can increase pressure around the rectal veins and contribute to hemorrhoid problems. Using a phone can make it easier to lose track of time.
2. Your Phone Can Pick Up Germs
Bathrooms contain many surfaces that can carry microorganisms. When you touch your phone after using the toilet without properly washing your hands, the device can become another surface that you repeatedly touch throughout the day.
The CDC recommends washing your hands after using the restroom and regularly cleaning frequently touched surfaces.
3. It Can Turn Toilet Time Into A Daily Habit
Bringing your phone into the bathroom can encourage you to stay longer than necessary every time you use the toilet. Cleveland Clinic specifically recommends avoiding phones and other distractions while having a bowel movement.
The Simple Solution
When you need to use the toilet, leave your phone outside. Finish what you went there to do, wash your hands properly with soap and water, and return to your phone afterward.
A small change in this habit can help you spend less unnecessary time on the toilet while also keeping your phone away from a potentially germ filled environment.