In the digital age, smartphones have become an integral part of our lives, with many people taking their devices everywhere, even into the bathroom. However, health experts have recently raised concerning warnings about the potential harm of this habit, particularly when it comes to using phones while on the toilet.
A study by UK-based bathroom equipment company QS Supplies found that Americans spend an average of 49 hours a year using their phones in the bathroom, with Gen Z spending the most time at 54 hours per year. This equates to over two consecutive days of screen time while attending to personal needs.
A Common Habit with Hidden Risks
The survey of over 500 Americans revealed the following phone activities while on the toilet:
- Social media browsing (66%)
- Watching videos (40%)
- Responding to messages (37%)
- Reading news (36%)
- Sending emails (36%)
- Playing games (29%)
- Online shopping (14%)
- Work-related tasks (9%)
- Making phone calls (8%)
Interestingly, 2% of respondents admitted to taking video calls while on the toilet, indicating how normalized this behavior has become in modern life.
Potential Health Consequences
Doctors warn that spending extended periods sitting on the toilet, even if not for the intended purpose, can lead to health issues such as hemorrhoids. Prolonged sitting puts pressure on the veins in the rectum, causing inflammation, pain, itching, and bleeding.
Additionally, using phones in unsanitary bathroom environments can increase the risk of bacterial and viral infections. Only one out of four people surveyed reported cleaning their phones after using them in the bathroom, making these devices potential carriers of harmful pathogens that we touch throughout the day.
Older adults, especially Baby Boomers, were found to be less likely to sanitize their phones, increasing their vulnerability to infections such as flu, stomach viruses, and gastrointestinal viruses.
An Escape or a Health Hazard?
For some, the bathroom has become a private sanctuary to escape the stresses of daily life, with 51% of Americans admitting to spending time in the bathroom just for some peace and quiet. Some even use this space to hide from their social circles or complete work tasks.
Farook Member, Director of QS Supplies, observes that social media, especially platforms like TikTok, have infiltrated even the most intimate moments of modern life.
Expert Recommendations
- Limit bathroom time to 10–15 minutes per visit
- Avoid taking your phone into the bathroom unless necessary
- Regularly sanitize your phone and other personal devices
- Practice digital detox to reduce reliance on technology
What may seem like a harmless habit of scrolling through your phone while on the toilet can have unforeseen consequences for both physical and mental health. Now, more than ever, it’s essential to take control of our technology habits and ensure that we use these devices mindfully, especially during moments meant for rest, reflection, and self-care.
