Bacteria from the restroom are transmitted to both cell phones and hands, and below are the four most commonly found bacteria on cell phones:

1. E. coli :

A study by the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine discovered that 16 percent of cell phones tested had E. coli bacteria. The same bacteria were found on 16 percent of the hands tested, indicating that individuals had not washed their hands well after using the bathroom.

2. C. diff :

C. diff is a bacteria that causes diarrhea and, in the worst cases, colon inflammation. It was found on smartphones and tablets at St. Joseph’s Healthcare.

3. Fecal matter

A study performed by Queen Mary’s School of Biological and Chemical Sciences discovered the presence of fecal matter on phones, where it can survive for days.

4. Flu virus

CBC Hamilton also discovered the flu virus on a number of smartphones and tablets. While you can’t get sick off your own fecal matter or E. coli, you can transfer it to others, making them sick.

Bringing your cell phone into the bathroom exposes it to the flushing spray from the toilet, which can reach up to six feet. Even if you wash your hands and wipe your bottom, the fact that you handle your phone before washing your hands will transfer germs to the phone.

Tested solution:

Wipe your phone with a clean, dry cloth to remove any germs or bacteria that may have landed on it.

Source: demicblog

Debates Regarding the Bathroom Door

Closing the bathroom door is generally the preferred method while in the bathroom. It ensures privacy and holds in unpleasant and unwanted odors. However, opening the bathroom door allows air to circulate, ultimately removing unwanted odors. Interestingly, there may be more to it.

Feng Shui Says Closed Bathroom Door

The ancient art of Feng Shui is merely the idea that buildings and interior decoration are methodically mapped out to create a harmonious and open energy flow, aligning your qi, also spelled chi. In Chinese culture, feng shui translates to “wind-water” and water is a symbol of wealth or abundance. As such, bathrooms are an ideal place to start the energy flow because water is abundant. The ancient practice notes that keeping the bathroom door closed prevents money from “washing down the drain“, emphasizing that keeping the toilet lid closed also ensures that your chi doesn’t “find an unintentional escape route.”

Preventing Mold and Other Germs

In contrast, an open bathroom door or windows and running the fan remove moisture after a steamy shower or bath., particularly for those in a wet climate. This practice helps prevent mold build-up and is a seemingly necessary part of life for many. Furthermore, leaving the bathroom door open, accompanied by other windows in the home creates a breeze that helps remove germs and bacteria. However, it’s important to note that fresh air isn’t a sufficient sanitization method and bathrooms should be regularly cleaned.

New Perspective on the Bathroom Door

Meanwhile, OnPlusNews published an article sharing an entirely new perspective on leaving the bathroom door open, noting that it creates a sense of community. The article accounts for some common themes among most families. For example, leaving the bathroom door closed can feel claustrophobic. Or parents may be separated from their curious 2-year-old, often ending in messes and chaos. As such, leaving the bathroom door open is likely a good idea. The author notes they “inadvertently” left the bathroom door open during a family get-together. As a result, it “facilitated conversations and “openness among guests.”

Boundaries and Privacy

On the other hand, closing the bathroom door is a simple way to establish a boundary in a bustling home, ensuring privacy. As a result, the article concluded that perhaps closing the bathroom door is circumstantial and a personal preference. The conclusion makes sense, as most of the time people have differing circumstances and often make their own rules regarding how their home operates. Interestingly, bathroom etiquette varies worldwide, and many practices may seem odd in the U.S.

European Customs

For example, many European cities have a bathroom attendant and it’s customary to tip the attendant. As a result, they have tip jars on the counter. However, this practice was popular in the U.S. years ago, and can still be found in extravagant hotels such as rooftop restaurants and lounges in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Asian Customs

Another seemingly strange practice is the use of the “squatting toilet“. Luckily, these have a bathroom door and are found throughout Asia, including China, India, and Singapore. However, studies have shown using these toilets is healthier and more natural, allowing our bodies to do their jobs with ease. While they’re a healthier way to go, the idea of a “squatting toilet” can seem strange to those unfamiliar with the practice. It’s a good idea to remove anything from pockets and avoid baggy clothes as they’re more prone to splashback.

Old and Fragile Plumbing

Additionally, some countries don’t have plumbing systems to accommodate foreign objects such as feminine products or toilet paper. Therefore, it’s important to note any signs that may warn against flushing these items, as they’ll likely have an alternative disposal method.

Bathroom etiquette varies worldwide and some practices may seem strange at first. However, with a little better understanding many of these practices make sense and can be advantageous, including whether or not you close the bathroom door.

Source: theeyota

Why Should You Put Salt in Your Toilet?

Incorporating salt into your toilet care routine can bring several benefits:

• Natural Cleaning: Salt acts as a gentle scouring agent that can help remove stains and residue without damaging the porcelain.
• Odor Elimination: Due to its ability to kill bacteria, salt helps neutralize odors, leaving your bathroom smelling fresher.
• Cost-Efficiency: Compared to commercial cleaners, salt is an inexpensive alternative.
• Eco-Friendly: Salt does not contain harsh chemicals, making it safer for the environment.

What is the Process for Putting Salt in the Toilet?

To utilize salt effectively in the toilet, follow these simple steps:

• Pour at least half a cup of table salt into the toilet bowl.
• Use a toilet brush to scrub the sides and underneath the rim with the salt-infused water.
• Allow the saltwater solution to sit for a few minutes for deeper cleaning and deodorizing effects.
• Flush the toilet to rinse away the salt and any dislodged debris.
• Putting salt in a toilet helps clean up mineral build-up and also clogs.

How Does the Salt Work in the Toilet?

When introduced into the toilet bowl, salt begins to dissolve, creating a saline solution that can break down light deposits of lime scale and mineral build-up. It can also act as a mild abrasive which aids in scrubbing away grime and organic matter.

Signs of a Clog in the Toilet

Be mindful of these indicators that suggest a clogged toilet:

• Water rising unusually high or draining slowly after flushing
• Gurgling sounds emanating from the bowl or drain
• The presence of unpleasant odors signifies trapped waste

Other DIY Ways to Unclog a Toilet

Aside from salt, other household items can assist in unclogging toilets:

• Baking Soda and Vinegar: A non-toxic combo that can dissolve clogs and sanitize.
• Hot Water: Helps to loosen and break apart blockages.
• Plunger: A straightforward physical method to clear obstructions.
• Plumbing Snake: Effective for reaching deeper into the drain to remove stubborn clogs.

Introducing salt into your toilet maintenance routine can be a proficient way to uphold cleanliness and functionality. Whether used alone or alongside other domestic remedies, salt offers a safe and budget-friendly approach to caring for your plumbing.

Source: redfishinspections.com

Bathroom Mold Removal—The damp and humid environment provides the ideal conditions for these unwelcome guests. But fear not! With the right knowledge and strategies, you can bid farewell to bathroom mold and keep it from making a comeback.

1. Preventative Ventilation:

– Use exhaust fans and open windows during and after showers to reduce humidity and promote ventilation. Mold thrives in stagnant, damp air.

2. Regular Cleaning Routine:

– Develop a consistent bathroom cleaning routine. Wipe down surfaces, including walls and ceilings, with a mold-fighting cleaner. Don’t forget to scrub tile grout and sealant to prevent mold from taking hold.

3. Natural Mold Removers:

– Create a natural cleaning solution using equal parts white vinegar and water. Spray this mixture on mold-prone areas and let it sit for 15 minutes before scrubbing away the mold.

4. Silicone Sealant Maintenance:

– Inspect and replace any damaged or deteriorating silicone seals around your bathtub and shower. Proper sealing prevents moisture from seeping in and causing mold.

Bathroom Mold Removal- Tricks for a Mold-Free Bathroom

– Baking Soda Scrub: Make a paste with baking soda and water and use it to scrub away mold from grout, tiles, and other surfaces. Rinse thoroughly.

– Tea Tree Oil: Mix a few drops of tea tree oil with water in a spray bottle. Spray this natural antifungal solution on mold-prone areas, leave it for a few hours, and wipe clean.

– Reduce Clutter: Minimize the number of items in your bathroom to prevent mold from hiding in hard-to-reach spots.

With the right approach, you can reclaim your bathroom from the clutches of mold and mildew. Regular maintenance, proper ventilation, and natural cleaning solutions are your allies in this battle. We hope this guide has armed you with the knowledge and strategies needed to enjoy a clean, mold-free bathroom.

Remember, a mold-free bathroom not only looks better but also contributes to a healthier living environment. Say goodbye to unsightly mold, musty odors, and the hassle of scrubbing away mold constantly. Instead, say hello to a fresh, clean, and welcoming bathroom. Happy cleaning!

Eggshells

You might think that a crushed up eggshell will go down the drain smoothly, but it actually is causing a blockage. The sharp, hard edges of the shell will collect other things coming down your drain and eventually cause a clog.

Grease

When you pour grease down the drain, it sticks to the inside of your pipes and the pipes in the street. This can cause the entire pipe to become clogged over time. Other oil-based products are also dangerous to pour down your drain, such as cooking oil, salad dressings, butter, mayonnaise, and fat. If needed, make sure to let the grease cool first, then dispose of it in the trash instead.

Flour

Flour coagulates when mixed with water. This can clog your pipes by coating the edges and catching other bits of disposables trying to make their way down. Always throw your flour, whether mixed with water or not, in the garbage.

Medication

If you flush your unused or expired medication or crush it up and pour it down the drain, those chemicals will be leaked back into your drinking water and the environment. Always make sure to dispose of unwanted medication at your local pharmacy or police department, which will have access to medical waste disposal units.

Produce stickers

Many times people wash their fruit and forget to take the sticker off; it falls in the sink and you eventually just let it go down the drain. Peel them off before you wash your fruit and dispose of it properly. Those little stickers don’t dissolve in water and can clog your pipes and block screens and filters or pumps at the water treatment plant.

Coffee grounds

Coffee grounds build up in your pipes and cause blockages. Plumbers say they are the most common cause of drain problems. You should always dispose of coffee grounds in your trashcan or use them for composting (don’t forget the coffee grounds at the bottom of your mug).

Products claiming to be ‘flushable’

Products claiming to be “flushable” such as certain brands of cat litter and wipes still create a high risk of clogged drains. Cat litter is still highly absorbent after you flush it and toxins from cat feces may get leaked into the ocean and harm marine life. Flushable wipes also don’t break down properly and often get caught on other things creating large clots in pipes.

Condoms

Condoms are made of latex, which doesn’t disintegrate in water, so never, ever flush them. Throw them in the trash or dispose of them at a waste treatment center. If you flush them, they may end up in the ocean and marine life often mistakes them for food and chokes.

Cleaning products

Even though most cleaning products are liquid, they should never be poured down the drain because they contain harmful chemicals. Many contain phosphates, antibacterial agents, and other compounds that aren’t removed at the water treatment plant and can be hazardous to the ecosystem.

Paper products

The only paper product that should go down your drain is toilet paper. It has been specially designed to break down and disintegrate in water. Always dispose of other paper products such as paper towels, cotton balls, and feminine hygiene products in the trash. These items are extremely absorbent and will easily clog your pipes.

Expandable food

It’s OK to let some food run down the drain, but a lot of it expands when mixed with water and can lead to a block. Pasta and rice are two foods to watch out for. Also, pastas are made with flour, which will become sticky and catch other things in your pipes.

Paint

Similar to cleaning products, paint should never be poured down the drain even though it’s a liquid. It has the potential to pollute the environment and cause your drain to clog. Many towns have hazardous waste facilities where you can safely dispose of your old or unused paint. Next, read about the foods you should never keep in your pantry.

But don’t be intimidated—you don’t need to memorize the Uniform Plumbing Code or pass your state’s licensing exam to maintain a plumbing system free of leaks, clogs, and sewage backups. It’s more a matter of implementing habits and routines that will help you minimize
Here are 6 things professional plumbers always do in their own homes to keep things running smoothly.

1. Plumbers always put food waste into the trash or compost bin

Dumping bacon grease or the remnants of your toddler’s lunch into the sink and running the garbage disposal might seem like the quick-and-easy way to plow through a stack of dirty dishes. But it’s actually a terrible habit that can really wreak havoc on your plumbing system

A better plan? Scrape your plates into the garbage can, and pour grease into an empty can that also goes in the trash. Composting is an option, too, if you have a way to dispose of the compost. Some cities offer compost pick-up, and many people use compost in their gardens.

Why is this so important? Grease sticks to the walls of your pipes and eventually clogs your drain. And the garbage disposal is not designed to break down and process things like meat, eggshells, and coffee grounds. Putting these items down the drain and running the disposal will overwork and eventually damage the device.

2. Plumbers flush their water heater regularly

If you find yourself standing in a cold shower every morning or hearing weird sounds coming from your water heater, it might be time to ask yourself if the unit has been flushed lately. Or ever.

Why is this necessary? Over time sediment builds up at the bottom of your water heater tank. This sediment can damage the appliance, making it inefficient or even inoperable. Flushing is particularly important in areas with hard water.

Fortunately, performing this annual to-do is not complicated. And while you can certainly hire a plumber to flush a water heater on your behalf, many DIYers are perfectly capable of doing the job.

3. Plumbers use a smart device to check for leaks and drips

“(The device) basically monitors for fluctuations in water pressure and any type of leaks that may occur”. “It is a really useful device.”

If you’re not ready to add a smart home leak monitor, remember to keep an eye out for leaks and drips. This is typically done by simply listening for the sound of rushing water or that tell-tale drop-drop sound. You can also go through your home and check each faucet.

“The sooner you catch stuff with good routine inspections, the cheaper it is to fix” .

4. Plumbers always use a no-frills plunger

Sometimes, back-to-basics is best. Case in point: toilet plungers. You can buy all sorts of gimmicky, overly engineered plungers, but the ones that work best are the good old-fashioned.

Why? Because they quickly and effectively do the job they are meant to do—unclog a toilet. Plus, they are easy to clean. “Fancy” plungers, with their air holes, tempered handles, and drip-free magnetic collars, cost more and don’t do anything to help make plunging more pleasant. Save yourself the trouble by sticking to the original version, even if it doesn’t look as good in the corner of your bathroom.

On a related note, when you’re shopping for a plunger, add a basic pair of safety goggles to your car. Plunging can be an extremely dirty job and you’ll want your eyes protected.

5. Plumbers change their water filter cartridges

If you use a plumbing-integrated water filter of any kind—whether it be a faucet filter, refrigerator filter, under-sink filter, or a whole-house water treatment filter—it’s essential you do exactly what a plumber would do and change those filter cartridges regularly.

Generally, change the filter every six months, but this can vary based on use and manufacturer’s recommendations. Check the owner’s manual for your particular device.
Because the filter collects various contaminants that could be in your city’s water system. (If you’re not sure which contaminants your filter blocks, this handy database can tell you.) In some cases, this is mostly about taste. Other times, it is about health. In either case, you want your filter to do its job. If you fail to change the filter, it can get dirty and clogged, rendering it useless.

6. Plumbers check their water pressure at least once a year

Water pressure that is too high or too low can be problematic, not to mention annoying. This is why plumbers check the water pressure in their homes at least once a year.

What can go wrong if you don’t keep tabs on it? Well, with low water pressure, you’ll experience things like slow flow in the shower or a washing machine that takes forever to fill. High water pressure can lead to leaks, wear-and-tear on your appliances, and even burst pipes.

While it can vary by city code, in general, the water pressure should be set to a maximum of 80 PSI. This will allow you to easily rinse the shampoo out of your hair in the shower while also keeping your pipes in one piece. Checking your water pressure is really easy. Just pick up a water pressure test gauge, secure it to your hose or faucet, turn on the water and wait for the reading to register.

If your pressure is too high or too low, you’ll need to seek help from a plumber or determine the cause of the issue and make the repair yourself. There are numerous causes of high and/or low pressure, but one possible fix for low pressure is the installation of a water pressure booster pump.

If you’re doubting whether you really need to waste time cleaning a shower head, answer this: How regularly and how closely do you look at your shower head? Exactly. And chances are, you clean it even less often.

We get it, though. The shower head is often in an awkward space that requires some odd contortions to get a close look. And to really get it clean, you have to invest time and effort into unscrewing the whole thing.

It sounds tedious, but once you know how to clean a shower head, it really isn’t that bad. Plus, you’ll feel that much better every time you hop in the shower. To learn how to clean a shower head, follow this expert advice.

Cleaning your shower head without removing it

To do the job quickly, follow these step-by-step instructions for how to clean a shower head:

Fill a plastic bag about halfway full with white vinegar. Use quart-sized bags for faucets and gallon-sized bags for shower heads. (If you have a large shower head, you may need to get creative.) “Vinegar is good to use because it is strong enough to dissolve anything that’s left in the head” . If you prefer to use something besides vinegar, try lemon juice or an over-the-counter product that specifically targets limescale and shower scum.
Wrap the vinegar-filled bag around the shower head or faucet so that any place where water exits is completely submerged in the vinegar. Hold the bag in place by snapping a rubber band around it, affixing it to the shower head or faucet.
Wait approximately one hour to let the vinegar eat away at any hard-water deposits or calcium buildups. While you’re waiting, learn how to clean the dirtiest items in your home.
After the hour has passed, remove the bag and scrub the faucet or shower head with a toothbrush to clear up any stubborn residue.
Rinse by simply run the shower for a few minutes with hot water.
Pro tip: If you turn the shower on and the individual spray holes in the shower head are still blocked, try poking them with a small tool, like a toothpick. The vinegar will have loosened any buildup so that it can be easily dislodged.

How to deep clean a shower head

While a quick cleaning works, a deep clean should be on your cleaning schedule. Do it two to four times a year to ensure you’re nixing the buildup on the interior of your shower head. Not only will this step-by-step guide deep clean your shower head, but it’ll teach you how to clean a clogged shower head as well.

Detach the shower head. “For best results, remove the shower head using a wrench to unscrew the nut located at the shower arm”. “Practice care in not ruining the fixture’s finish and use a soft rag with your tool to cushion it.”
Next, rinse the loose debris out of the shower head. “Place the shower head upside down and rinse it under the faucet with a blast of water. Then position the shower head to ensure the water flushes out the mineral debris” .
If you notice mineral deposits still lodged inside, recommends using a small brush doused in vinegar to scrub the deposits from the showerhead. You’ll probably find yourself completing this step if it’s been a while since your last deep clean.
Let the shower head soak in vinegar overnight.
Reinstall the shower head. Before you do, “wrap plumber’s tape around the shower arm entrance to create a tight seal and use a wrench to reattach the shower head to the shower arm”. “Use a rag to protect the shower arm’s finish.”
Once the shower head is reinstalled, turn on the shower for a few minutes to clear out any residual vinegar. You may want to start with a gentle stream and then increase, just in case the shower head isn’t 100 percent sealed.

1. Start With Dish Soap

Plunging a clogged toilet is no fun, but there’s a better way. To unclog a toilet without a plunger, head to the kitchen for some dish soap. The slippery soap should help lubricate the clogged pipe and allow the lodged debris to slide down more easily.

Pour about a half-cup into the toilet. If you’re out of dish soap, chop a bar of hand soap into small chunks and drop the pieces into the toilet. If none of these unconventional methods work, here’s our fool-proof guide for how to unclog a toilet.

2. Check Out the Best Toilet Paper for Your Plumbing

We tested toilet paper breakdown and this is what happened. This is the best toilet paper for your plumbing.

3. Add Hot Water

If dish soap alone doesn’t do the trick, adding water might move things along. Fill a bucket with hot bath water (boiling water could cause a porcelain toilet to crack) and pour the water into the toilet from waist level. The force of the water could dislodge whatever is causing the clog.

4. DIY a Drain Snake Using a Wire Hanger

A more severe blockage could require manually moving the item. To do this without a plunger, unravel a wire coat hanger until it’s straight. Push one end of the wire into the clogged area. Prod the debris until it becomes free and flows down the drain.

5. Plunger Alternative: Baking Soda Mixture

As an alternative to using dish soap and no plunger, try this all-natural solution. Pour one cup baking soda and two cups vinegar into the toilet. Allow it fizz for a half hour. If clog doesn’t dissipate, try the hot water trick.

6. Use a Plastic Bottle to Create Water Pressure

Start by removing as much water from the toilet bowl as possible; you can do this by repeatedly filling a small container with toilet water and pouring the water into a bucket. Next, fill a large plastic bottle with warm water.

Place your thumb over the top of the bottle and fit the top end of the bottle into the outlet at the bottom of the toilet.Remove your thumb and squeeze the bottle so the water inside shoots down the pipe. The added pressure could dislodge whatever was causing the clog.

Are you thinking of remodeling your bathroom? It’s a good time of year for it — the holidays are almost here, and you might be thinking of ways to spruce up the house. Or maybe you’ve been self-isolating for a while due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and you’re starting to get sick of looking at your outdated bathroom. Being home all the time has put a strain on those fixtures anyway. It’s time to freshen things up.

Before you start swinging that sledge hammer, though, you should know there are plenty of things that can go wrong with a bathroom remodel. Here’s how you can avoid — or at least deal with — some of the most common bathroom remodel nightmares.

1. Don’t Forget to Plan Around the Door

When remodeling your bathroom, it’s easier and cheaper to leave the plumbing where it is (more on that later) and install new fixtures in the same places. If you are going to move around fixtures or install more cabinetry, don’t forget that you need to leave room to open and close the bathroom door completely. You don’t want to block your door and end up with less (or, let’s face it, no) privacy. It seems like something that could never happen until it happens to you, because you’ve been working all day, you’re tired, and you’re not thinking straight when you install your new bathroom features.

2. Work with the Space You Have

You’re not going to be able to install everything you want in your bathroom remodel, especially if you have limited space in the room.That means you may have to skip the double sink and soaker tub. Rein in your bathroom remodeling ideas accordingly.

Remodeling a bathroom means maneuvering and working with large, heavy fixtures in a cramped space. Measure everything twice and then again for good measure, so you can buy fixtures that will fit. Plan your new bathroom beforehand. That way you won’t waste hours trying to muscle a vanity into a nook that is too small to accommodate it.

3. Leave the Plumbing Where It Is

When remodeling a bathroom, it’s really the most economical to leave the plumbing where it is if you can. Unless your bathroom’s layout is extremely impractical, you should connect new fixtures to the existing plumbing. Moving existing water lines and drain pipes can be very problematic and expensive.

4. Remember Who’s Using the Bathroom

Will this bathroom be used mostly by kids, or is it in the master suite? When designing a bathroom remodel, consider the family members who will be using it most. Install a walk-in tub and grab bars for seniors and the disabled. Increase spacing to accommodate a wheelchair or make it easier for a home health aide or family member to help a disabled or senior person use the facilities.

For children, brainstorm structural and design elements that will appeal to them and will, ideally, make the bathroom easier for small family members to use. Look for bathroom, shower, and tile ideas for children’s bathrooms, and get input from your kids.

5. Know What You’re Getting Into

Removing an old tub or shower surround and replacing it with a new one isn’t as straightforward as it might seem on the surface. There’s a bit more to it than just yanking out the old and putting in the new. You have to make sure your hot and cold water connections are leak-free and functional. You also need to ensure the shower or tub floor slopes toward the drain. And that’s not all.

Unless you’re a skilled do-it-yourselfer, it might be worth it to hire professional bathroom remodelers. That way you won’t end up with leaks, standing water in your new shower or tub, faulty waterproofing, or other problems that could become big issues down the road. Remember, bathrooms are wet, so a botched bathroom remodel could leave your home vulnerable to water damage — and that damage could accumulate and become more severe without you even knowing it, until it becomes irreversible.

6. Consider Gutting the Whole Bathroom

The potential for water damage is why you should consider gutting your whole bathroom down to the studs when you remodel. A full gut will tell you whether you need to replace a rotting subfloor or leaking drain pipes, as well as if you have a mold problem to mitigate — and it will allow you to rebuild with modern materials that are much more resistant to mold and water damage.

1. Scrubbing the Toilet Bowl