How far faecal particles can spread after flushing the toilet: study

Turns out, it’s further than you think.

The study showed aerosol plumes (the particles) from a commercial toilet have a “chaotic” trajectory both upwards and backward onto the cistern.

The laser images show particles can spew into the air of the bathroom.

“Our results demonstrate the surprisingly energetic and rapid growth of aerosol plumes from a commercial toilet and highlight the chaotic nature of the fluid kinematics that transport the particles,” the study said.

The study showed toilet particles can reach heights of 1.5 metres within eight seconds of flushing.

During the experiments, scientists only used tap water in the toilet but the research suggests faecal matter could spread even further.

“The presence of faecal matter and toilet paper could alter plume dynamics in unpredictable ways,” scientists said.

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Scientists suggest future toilet designs should change the strength of the toilet flush jet or its upward trajectory to reduce the spread of particles.

After the COVID-19 pandemic, research showed aerosols can transmit infections like the coronavirus, flu and norovirus.

This study shows flushing a toilet with the lid open could spread pathogens found in faeces in the bathroom.

What the study doesn’t reveal is the path the toilet particles follow which scientists say needs further research.

“The methodologies we use to visualise and quantify the plume structure could provide a foundation for mitigating the risk of pathogen spread,” the study said.