Experts warn: You're probably keeping this bathroom item far too long
A bathroom item that needs to be replaced regularly has been named (photo: magnific)
The toilet seat is one of the most underestimated household items – it accumulates wear and micro-damage much faster than it seems. Therefore, it should be replaced regularly to maintain hygiene and prevent the spread of bacteria, reports the Martha Stewart website.
Why you need to replace the toilet seat
The toilet seat is something everyone uses. Over time, it may start to crack, accumulate germs, and become harder to clean.
Most stubborn stains indicate material degradation and lead to the ingress of bacteria and moisture, making the seat unhygienic.
For hygiene reasons, buy a new toilet seat if you are moving into a new house or rented accommodation.
If the seat is wobbly and feels like it’s about to give way as soon as you sit down, it’s time to replace it. Looseness can even make it dangerous to use, as the seat could detach and cause a person to fall.
Also, if the hinges are broken or so rusty they don’t move, you should consider replacing them.
How often to replace the seat
Wooden or soft seats: 3 to 5 years
They absorb moisture and have a coating that is prone to damage from cleaning chemicals. As a result, such toilet seats wear out quickly – the coating tends to chip, seams start to separate, and moisture gets inside.
Plastic seats: 5 to 7 years
Plastic lasts a little longer because it is easy to clean and moisture-resistant.
How to thoroughly clean away germs
First, remove the main dirt. To do this, moisten a soft sponge or cloth with warm soapy water or dishwashing liquid, and thoroughly wipe the entire surface of the seat on both sides, including the areas near the mounts where dirt most often accumulates. Then rinse off any remaining soap with a clean, damp cloth.
The next step is disinfection. You can use an approximately 70% alcohol solution or a household bathroom disinfectant. Apply the product to the surface or a wipe, then rub the seat evenly, and leave it for a few minutes to take effect.
Finally, wipe the seat dry with a clean cloth. If desired, you can go over it again with disinfectant.
