Although flushing the toilet after urinating is generally considered necessary, many people take it to the extreme and flush far more often than they need to.

If you’re someone who tends to flush every time without thinking, it’s worth knowing that this habit might not be as harmless as it seems. The issue lies in the fact that flushing can cause germs to spread from the toilet bowl into the surrounding area.

If you’d like to avoid this and still maintain a clean toilet, keep reading—there are a few simple tricks you can follow to protect yourself from germs while keeping your bathroom hygienic.

One important point to remember: don’t flush unless it’s truly necessary. If no one has used the toilet, there’s no need to flush it. Similarly, avoid flushing “just in case.” That extra flush doesn’t help—it actually does the opposite. The initial flush is enough, and the second one only stirs up more germs into the air.

Here’s another useful tip: always try to close the toilet lid before you flush. Doing this creates a barrier that reduces the spread of germs and other harmful particles into your bathroom.

Cleaning your bathroom regularly also plays a big role in keeping things hygienic. A clean toilet is less likely to harbor and spread bacteria.

And here’s a small detail that makes a big difference—never store your toothbrush near the toilet. The reason is simple: placing it too close increases the chance of it picking up airborne particles released from flushing. Those same particles can end up in your mouth later.

By following these suggestions, you’ll improve your bathroom’s hygiene, boost your personal cleanliness, and contribute to your overall health and well-being.