This seems like something that should be true, but I think I remember seeing a Mythbusters episode where they decided it didn’t make a difference. That show was more about entertainment than science, so I wondered if there was a more rigorous study done? I’ve definitely seen splashes of water(?) come out from flushes so that alone seems to argue for closing lids.
I think someone urgently needs to come up with one of these solutions:
- The foot-operated lid;
- The toilet with flush and suction;
- The Jedi throne (a Jedi-style toilet lid activated by hand movements) and lastly
- The Terminator (a time-activated flames of hell) solution. The time-activated mechanism locks the toilet door after the user leaves and burns the entire compartment at solar flare temperatures.
In France they have public toilets that basically do number 4. The toilet gets completely cleaned automatically with hot water and detergent after you used it. It works by locking up after you unlocked the door after using it. If you hold the door for someone, they get the cleaning treatment.
Unfortunately, I’ve never been to France, but nothing beats a spotless clean public toilet. And, thanks for the tip: if someone holds the door for you, kindly step back. That alone should be highlighted in all tourist guides.
It’s written quite clearly on the door, but last time I used one I saved a tourist who would have had an unfortunate shower. She grabbed the door when I went out and was going in, I had to warn her and tell her to first let the door close so that the wash cycle would do its job.
Jim Jeffries had a whole bit on his show about his idea for a foot pedal that lifts and lowers the seat, just begging for anyone to make it.
Some day I’ll buy a bass drum kick pedal and a 3D printer and make it happen.
I’ve only found one product that does this, it’s all plastic, very expensive, and the reviews are terrible.
