It’s no secret that our mobile phones have become an integral part of our daily lives. We use them for almost everything- from setting up reminders, making phone calls, checking emails to scrolling through social media.
But have you ever stopped to think about the consequences of bringing your phone into the bathroom with you? In this article, we’ll take a look at the reasons why using your phone in the bathroom isn’t such a good idea.
The Germs
You might be surprised to learn that the bathroom is one of the germiest places in the house. Every time you flush the toilet, microscopic particles of fecal matter are released into the air, and they can settle on surfaces in the room.
This includes your phone. In fact, studies have shown that your phone is likely to be a breeding ground for bacteria, viruses, and other harmful pathogens. Bringing it into the bathroom only increases the risk of exposure.
Increased Risk of Infection
When you bring your phone into the bathroom with you, you increase your risk of infection. The germs and bacteria on your phone can easily transfer to your hands, and from there, to your face, eyes, and mouth.
This can result in an increased risk of respiratory infections, urinary tract infections, and other illnesses. Additionally, if you have an open cut or wound on your hand, you’re at risk of introducing harmful bacteria into your bloodstream.
Risk of Dropping Your Phone
Using your phone in the bathroom also increases the risk of dropping it, especially if you’re juggling multiple tasks. Not only is it embarrassing to drop your phone in the toilet, but it can also be expensive to replace.
Moreover, water damage can be difficult to repair and can render your phone unusable if it is not addressed promptly.
Distraction from the Task at Hand
The bathroom is a quiet refuge from the outside world, a place where you can relax and gather your thoughts. When you bring your phone into the bathroom, however, you’re introducing potential distractions.
Scrolling through social media or checking emails can cause you to lose track of time, and before you know it, you’ve spent 30 minutes in the bathroom. Not only is this unproductive, but it also contributes to constipation and other digestive issues.
The Blue Light Effect
Blue light, the type of light that emits from our phones, is known to disrupt our sleep patterns. Our bodies naturally associate nighttime with darkness, and artificial light can confuse our circadian rhythm, making it more difficult to fall asleep.
Using your phone in the bathroom late at night can interfere with your sleep and leave you feeling groggy and fatigued the next day.
Risk of Exposure to Pornography
While it may seem like a private space, the bathroom is a public space in the sense that it’s a shared space with your family members or roommates.
When you’re scrolling through social media or browsing the internet, you run the risk of exposing others to explicit or inappropriate content, especially if you’re not using headphones. This can cause discomfort, embarrassment, and even conflict.
Negative Impact on Your Mental Health
Using your phone in the bathroom can also have a negative impact on your mental health. The constant notifications, alerts, and messages can create feelings of anxiety and stress, even in what should be a peaceful moment.
The need to be connected all the time can be overwhelming, and taking time away from your phone can do wonders for your mental health.
Conclusion
In conclusion, using your phone in the bathroom isn’t the best idea.
The risks of exposure to harmful bacteria, the potential for infection, distraction, the blue light effect, and the risk of exposure to inappropriate content and having a negative impact on your mental health all outweigh any perceived benefits. Instead, try taking a few minutes to yourself, free from distractions, to reset, relax, and take care of your physical and mental well-being.