Average Smartphone Screen Is Dirtier Than A Public Toilet. Perils of “Toilet-Scrolling”

There but for the grace of God go I. Full disclosure: I am guilty of this as well, so I am not in any way judging you. Just sharing some advice I recently picked up scrolling through a story at The Guardian (I don't think I was in the bathroom at the time, but I can't be sure).

Resist the urge to use your smartphone or tablet in the bathroom. "But honey, I'm multi-tasking - don't you want me to be productive?" No, it's a bad idea and here's why.

A gastroenterologist in San Francisco, Dr Saurabh Sethi, says: "Keeping your phone in your hands while you pee is a recipe for bacteria. The average phone screen, it is said, is dirtier than the average public toilet seat."

Uh oh.

But wait, there's more. When we're doom-scrolling on the pot, we tend to stay on the toilet seat longer, and that presents another set of problems, beyond hygiene issues, including hemorrhoids, which I wouldn't wish on my worst enemy. According to Dr. Sethi this leads to “increased strain on your rectum and anus”, which can lead to piles, anal fissures and even rectal prolapse."

Well that sure sounds like a party. And a great way to create more billable hours for a friendly, local gastroenterologist!

Remaining on the porcelain throne for extended periods of time can also result in back issues, from being hunched over, according to the specialist.

Still skeptical - still not convinced? Experts have a long list of valid medical reasons why lingering on the toilet is bad for your physical health (probably your mental health, too).

One suggestion: bring a book into the loo. You won't expose your smartphone to germs, and you may actually learn something.

Good luck out there...