Why it's best not to use your cell phone in the bathroom

Among the many ways in which we waste our main electronic devices, cell phones, there is also the compulsive use we make of them, even taking them with us when we go to the bathroom.

A bad idea, for hygiene, health and safety reasons.

Hygiene problems

The bathroom is one of the home's most bacteria-rich spaces. When you flush the toilet, it creates a "fecal aerosol" that can settle on nearby surfaces, including the telephone.

The cell phone:

• it is placed on tables, bed, face
• it is touched while you eat
• it is rarely disinfected

Result: Starting from the bathroom, you could spread bacteria such as E. coli or other microorganisms around the house.

Health problems

A particularly inappropriate use of the cell phone is to talk on the phone while sitting on the toilet, thus prolonging the time we spend on the seat.

Sitting on the toilet for too long (perhaps while scrolling social media or watching videos) increases pressure in the rectal area. This can lead to:

• hemorrhoids
• irritations
• worsening of the constipation

Many doctors recommend not sitting for more than 5–10 minutes.

Security Risks

Talking on your cell phone while bathing is very dangerous for more than one reason.

Water (especially tap water, which contains salts and minerals) conducts electricity.
The real danger arises when:

• The phone is plugged in while charging
• The charger is defective
• The phone or cable falls into the water

In that case, a electrocution, even serious. There have been documented cases of domestic accidents caused by phones being plugged into the outlet while being used in the tub.

If the phone works battery only, the risk of electric shock is extremely low, because the internal voltage is very low (typically 3–5 volts).

In this case the risks are more practical than electrical:

• Phone falls into water
• Damage to the device
• Distraction that can increase the risk of slipping

Damage to the cell phone

Moisture and drops in the toilet are more common than you think. Although many smartphones are water-resistant, not all are completely waterproof, and can be irreversibly damaged.   

Read also: 

• How to use your smartphone
• How to protect yourself from cell phone radiation
• Cell phones at the table: a rude gesture