You visit a bathroom, and there is a moment of pause because you have just seen a toilet cover seat. The first thing that will probably come to your mind is, is it flushable? Well, most cover seats are flushable. The only thing not flushable is the decorative covers like faux fur styles or cotton.
We have provided detailed insight into the different types of toilet seat covers and how to know what to flush or not to flush. We will also provide tips on how to use toilet seat covers.
Let’s delve in!
Table of Contents
What is a Toilet Seat Cover?
It is as its name suggests. A toilet seat cover is a thin tissue that can be placed between dirty or cold plastic and your bare bottom. The covers are placed near the tissue paper roll or in a separate compartment. Grip one and pull it gently to separate it from the rest. The seat cover can be ripped into several joints to enable users to fit their desired potions onto the toilet seat. All you need to do is pinch the paper to rip off the middle joint to fall into the bowl. It should easily rip off with little effort.
Types and Purpose of Toilet Seat Covers
There are many types of functional and decorative seat covers. They come in different shapes and sizes. Some are circular, rectangular, or elongated. The best way to choose the ideal seat cover is to pick an option that suits the shape of your toilet. Besides, when shopping for a new toilet seat, it is recommended to consult a professional to help you get the right seat covers to go along with your toilet seat.
What To Flush or Not To Flush
Typically, almost all toilet seat covers are flushable. But some decorative and paper toilet seat covers are not flushable in public toilets. Most toilet seat covers are designed to break down almost immediately they get into contact with water. Besides, most toilet seat covers provide detailed information on how to use and dispose of them in their boxes. Note that flushing wrappers meant to seal the toilet seat covers can lead to clogged drainage pipes, overflow, and backup.
How to Properly Use a Toilet Seat Cover
Using a toilet seat cover is quite easy. All you need to know is how to decide when to use a cover and how to lay down a toilet seat cover. Here is a step-by-step guide on properly using a toilet seat cover.
Method #1: Laying Down Toilet Seat Covers
Pull the toilet seat cover from its housing container.
Most modern bathrooms have plastic containers with toilet seat covers next to the toilet seat. Carefully grip the outside seat cover and pull it to separate it from the rest.
Pinch the inside joints to remove the middle section
Before you set the cover down, start by gently pinching off the three joints to release the middle section to fall inside the bowl. Note that there are three joints; one on the left side, one on the right, and one in the middle. Pinching the wrong way will rip off the entire flap.
Place the seat cover on the toilet seat.
Now that the middle section is off place the seat cover on the toilet seat. Now place it in such a way that the flap goes inside the bowl. The outer rings should cover the toilet completely. Additionally, the cover’s part connected to the flap should be aligned with the front part of the bowl.
The flat should hang opposite the toilet flushing mechanism. Avoid giving much attention to the direction of the flap. As long as the toilet seat is covered, you are good to go.
Dispose of the seat cover by flushing when finished
After going through the above steps, you will be good to use the toilet. One of the best things about seat covers is that they are designed to break down easily, and they immediately come into contact with water.
You don’t have to touch the cover to take it off and dispose of it. The middle flap in the bowl should pull the outer layer immediately for a flush.
Method #2: When to Use Toilet Seat Covers
Check the overall condition of the toilet.
You can use a toilet if it is white and spot-free. However, you can use a toilet seat cover if it is stained with urine and fecal material. Ensure you choose a toilet seat in a better condition if you use a public toilet to save time and reduce the chances of contracting germs.
Open wound or cut on your bum
There are high chances of infecting your wound or cut with germs in a public toilet. Using a toilet seat cover is the best way to reduce the chances of infecting your wound. Notably, no matter how much you clean your toilet, some bacteria, such as Shigella, can survive on nonporous surfaces for up to two weeks.
Why Should You Close the Toilet Cover Lid?
Now that you have learned how to use toilet seat covers, do you need to close the toilet’s cover lid after use? While it is not a must, it is always recommended to close your toilet’s lead after use.
Studies reveal that in addition to flushing waste down the sewer pipes, the toilet releases fumes filled with microscopic bacteria into the air. The emitted germs can linger in the air for up to six hours. During this time, they can disperse to other bathroom areas and infect your towels, toothbrush, and beauty products.
Although the technology integrated into most toilets today can reduce the plumes released into the air, it is necessary to be cautious.
Can You Get Sick from Not Using Toilet Seat Covers?
No, you cannot get sick for not using a toilet without seat covers. Technically, there are more germs on the surface of the average standard phone than on the toilet seat. Even so, that does not mean you cannot get sick from using a dirty toilet.
Although toilet seats are not designed to carry infectious agents, they can carry germs that can be dangerous to individuals with low immunity. But if you find a bathroom without toilet seat covers, don’t worry about sitting on it directly.
All toilet seat covers are absorbent, and the tiny germs will comfortably pass through the relatively large poles in the cover. Germs are almost anywhere, and although it is unlikely to get sick from sitting on a toilet, it is best to protect yourself by washing your hands with soap every time you use a toilet.
Do Plumbers Replace Toilet Seats?
Yes, plumbers can replace your toilet seat. They can also conduct repairs in your toilet. Unless you enjoy fixing things in your home, it is advisable to seek the services of a professional plumber in case you need to replace your toilet seat.
Among some of the questions, you should ask yourself before deciding to conduct toilet repairs include; what is the damage? Are the required tools affordable? And are the products inexpensive if the first installation is not successful?
Moreover, one of the best ways to save time and money is to purchase all the products you might need to conduct repairs and return unused items after repairs. You can also check how long it will take to replace the toilet seat. A plumber will probably take 10 to 15 minutes to replace the seat, while it can take an hour, especially if it is your first time.
How Long Does it Take to Replace Your Toilet?
The average life expectancy of a well-maintained toilet is 20 to 30 years. Although it might go up to 50 years, it can start to leak and develop repair and clogging issues after 20 years of use. Even a new toilet seat can develop issues if not properly installed or frequently misused. When you decide to replace your toilet, ensure you consult the services of a professional to get the right installation. There are high chances that you might not install it correctly, especially if it is your first time.
What Next?
Toilet seat covers are undoubtedly the best way to protect your bum from getting into contact with the dirty surface in a public toilet. All you need to do is integrate the right procedure to lay the seat cover on the toilet seat and flush it after use. Ensure you close the lid before flushing the toilet to avoid spraying microscopic germs into the air. The germs can spread to your clothes and other areas in your bathroom. After doing so, leave the seat down to prevent more spread of germs.
Verdict: Can You Flush Toilet Seat Covers?
Yes, you can flush toilet seat covers. They are designed with absorbent and biodegradable material that can easily flush down your sewage line. However, you should watch out for the decorative material and other paper covers on the toilet seat that might not be flushable. Like the content? Check out our website for more exciting content, and let us work on ensuring we update you with the latest content.