A fascinating (and disgusting) series of images have been released in order to illustrate how much bacteria is propelled from the toilet when the lid isn't closed while flushing.
Apparently, just one dunny flush produces thousands of tiny aerosol droplets, which contain all sorts of nasty bacteria and viruses that can actually contaminate surfaces up to nearly two metres away.
Even more disturbingly, new research has revealed 55 per cent of UK adults don't close the lid when flushing the toilet - despite almost three quarters (72 per cent) saying they are more hygiene aware than ever before.
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While the study doesn't account for the number of Aussies who leave the lid up, we can assume the numbers would be similarly terrifying.
And as if that horrifying bit of info wasn't enough to have you gagging up your lunch, apparently, toilet bowl water remains contaminated for several flushes if it has been exposed to harmful pathogens.
To highlight the dangers, high-speed specialist camera technology was used to capture the droplets and particles leaving the toilet when you flush.
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What looks like fireworks going off is actually aerosol droplets being catapulted out of the toilet pan, which in a different setting could be flying onto surfaces and even into the faces of those in the bathroom.
A research and development associate at Harpic said: "There has never been a more important time to take extra care around our homes, although the risks associated with germ spread in unhygienic bathrooms are high, the solution to keeping them clean is simple.
"As experts in hygiene, Harpic are on hand to help everyone stay safe at home. We hope our new #CloseTheLid campaign helps inspire people to make simple changes to their cleaning routine that can have long-lasting benefits to the health of the nation."
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Some of the particles produced by a flushing toilet are even capable of reaching the lower respiratory tract, which can lead to infection. Also, if a person touches a surface contaminated by the toilet bowl flush, they can then become infected when they touch the nose or mouth.
When asked why they do not close the lid when flushing the toilet, the top reasons from respondents include being unaware of the risks of not flushing (47 per cent), feeling afraid to touch the lid (24 per cent) and general forgetfulness (15 per cent).
However, almost all of the 2,000 respondents (95 per cent) admitted they will start to close the lid after being made aware of the risks.
To help keep households safe and happy, Harpic is calling on people to take on this simple three stage routine when cleaning the bathroom:
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1. Close the lid when flushing the toilet to prevent germs spreading
2. Ensure you're using a toilet cleaner that removes limescale
3. Wear gloves while cleaning the toilet and wash your hands after you've finished
Topics: News, Interesting, Weird