When flushing the toilet, never do these 4 things! They waste water, damage the toilet, and harm your health—yet many people have no idea.

Today, let’s explore 4 mistakes to avoid when flushing the toilet so you can use it more efficiently, save water, and protect your health.

The toilet is an essential sanitary fixture in our daily lives, used multiple times a day. However, many people don’t realize that certain flushing habits not only waste water but can also damage the toilet and negatively impact health.

1. Flushing without closing the lid

Many people overlook a small yet very important detail: not closing the toilet lid before flushing. When you flush without closing the lid, the strong swirling water and air pressure can propel bacteria, viruses, and tiny particles into the air. These harmful substances can spread throughout the bathroom, even into other areas of the house, polluting the air and increasing the risk of respiratory illnesses.

To limit the spread of germs, always make it a habit to close the lid before flushing. It’s a simple action that greatly benefits your health.

2. Flushing non-degradable items

Ever wonder why your toilet often gets clogged? A common cause is flushing non-degradable items—such as sanitary pads, wet wipes, or non-dissolving toilet paper. These materials don’t break down in water, easily clogging pipes, slowing drainage, or completely blocking the toilet.

A clogged toilet not only costs you time and money to fix but also wastes more water during the process. If you don’t want to place a trash bin in the bathroom, at least use toilet paper that dissolves in water, so you can flush worry-free.

3. Holding down the flush button too long

Many people habitually hold the flush button down for too long. While some toilets are designed with a longer press option for extra water, over-holding usually causes far more water to be used than necessary. This not only wastes water but also increases your monthly water bill.

To flush properly:

• Use the smaller flush button for urine or light waste.

• Use the larger flush button for heavier waste.

• If your toilet has only one button, press it quickly once—no need to hold it down.

Correct flushing steps for saving water and protecting health:

• Always close the lid before flushing.

• Flush briefly, adjusting the water according to need.

• Check results; if needed, flush again.

• Clean the toilet regularly to maintain hygiene.

4. Neglecting to clean the toilet after flushing

Even though water removes waste, stains often remain on the bowl and rim. If you don’t clean the toilet regularly, these stains accumulate, becoming breeding grounds for bacteria, bad odors, and potential health risks.

To keep the toilet hygienic, clean it at least once a week with toilet cleaner and a brush. Don’t forget to scrub the rim, flush pipe, lid, and button to minimize germs.

---

Although toilets are everyday household fixtures, the way you use them directly affects water conservation, the device’s durability, and your family’s health. If you’re still making these mistakes, it’s time to change—starting today—to protect both the environment and yourself.