Last Updated on December 6, 2022 by acechapman
Did you ever drop something down the toilet, and then have to clean it up and disinfect it? All of us have been there at one time or another. We’ve put together a quick guide on how to disinfect something that fell in the toilet bowl properly. You can clean any item that has been dropped by following the steps carefully.
How To Disinfect Items That Fell In The Toilet?
There are a few methods that you can use in order to properly disinfect something that fell in the toilet. Below, we’ll explain each option so that you can choose the one that best suits your needs. The best method for many items will vary depending on their particulars. For example, certain methods work better for fragile objects while others are more effective for electronic items. The first step in each method is the same: retrieve the dropped item.
Retrieve The Dropped Object
1. Get a pair of rubber gloves.
It is important to protect your hands from the bacteria that can be found in the bowl when you reach into it to clean the item. Rubber gloves are the best way to protect yourself. Even if you don’t live in the same house, it is possible to not have one. You should evaluate whether the risk of dropping something in the toilet is worth it. Try to protect yourself by using a bag or paper towels.
2. Do it quickly.
No matter how well you’re protected from the bacteria, it is important to take the item out of your toilet as quickly as possible. To ensure that you don’t drop the item back in, make sure to hold onto it tightly. The toilet can flush your item down the drain. If this happens, you may never be able to retrieve it again.
After Retrieving, Rinse The Item
1. Rinse the item with hot water.
If the item you took that fell in the toilet wasn’t electronic, you need to wash it off with water before you disinfect it. It is more likely that the item will remain contaminated by the toilet water if it isn’t washed thoroughly. Turn on the water heater and wait until the water is hot. Use soap to clean the item. Finally, rinse the item with hot water until it is completely dry. If the dropped item is not waterproof, we recommend skipping this step. Water could cause further damage.
2. Don’t forget to wash your hands.
It is important to avoid any infection. Even if rubber gloves are on, it is still important to wash your hands well. Don’t forget to scrub under your fingernails and between your fingers to get rid of bacteria. After you’ve done this, your item should be clean and ready for use.
Use Disinfectant Products
1. Use a disinfectant spray
Get a chemical disinfectant spray strong enough to kill any bacteria on the item. To remove bacteria from an item with a smooth, solid surface, use a disinfectant wipe. If the item has uneven angles or a rough surface, spray the disinfectant to reach every corner and part of the item.
2. Leave it for a few minutes before you dry it.
Most people make the biggest mistake of rinsing off the disinfectant immediately after spraying it. Let the disinfectant sit for at least two minutes in order for the disinfectant to continue removing bacteria from the surface. To ensure that all disinfectant has been removed, wipe the entire item with a towel. It is best to rinse the item under water once again and then dry it.
Sanitize Object With Rubbing Alcohol
1. Get some cotton balls and rubbing alcohol.
You will need to have a packet of cotton balls and a bottle of Isopropyl alcohol for this process. You can disinfect more delicate objects that fell in the toilet with isopropyl alcohol (or rubbing alcohol). This is an excellent way to disinfect remote controls, smartwatches, mobile phones, and other electronic devices that you don’t want rinsing with hot water. For the best results, choose isopropyl alcohol that has a 70% concentration and doesn’t contain additives.
2. The cotton ball should be saturated.
The cap can be removed and the cotton ball dipped in alcohol. Keep it in the alcohol for a few seconds to soak it into the fibers. You can get rid of excess alcohol by shaking the cotton ball several times. Remember to not get the cotton ball too wet. Alcohol could leak out and get into the parts of electronics which could lead to further damage.
3. Wipe the item.
To remove the bacteria, use the cotton ball that you have soaked in alcohol. This is a great way to clean sensitive electronic items. After cleaning the item, dry it with a towel. The isopropyl alcohol evaporates quickly so it shouldn’t take long.
Boil the Item
1. Get a large pot for boiling.
This is another method to disinfect an object that fell in the toilet, boiling the item. The first step in boiling is to find a large enough pot for the item. This method is recommended only if the item can be submerged in boiling hot water. Once you have selected the perfect pot, heat it on medium heat. Wait for the water to simmer. When the water temperature is at the right level, you can place the infected object into the pot.
2. Soak the item in boiling water.
Use a strainer/tongs to lower the infected item into boiling water. You can allow the item to remain submerged for up 20 minutes. Boiling water will kill all bacteria and microbes on the item due to its high temperature. It is important to not leave the item in boiling water for too long. This could cause it to become warped by high temperatures.
3. Set it aside and let it dry.
Once you have determined that all microbial bugs, bacteria, and viruses are gone, it’s time to drain the water from the item and shake it around a bit. Wrap the item in a clean, dry towel and allow it to dry. Covers or lids that cover your item may be left open to allow airflow and prevent mildew from forming. When using hot water or boiling water, make sure you have a heating pad.
Final Words
If you have the right equipment and the instructions, it can be a lot easier how to disinfect items that fell in the toilet. It is important to disinfect any item that comes in contact with the bacteria found in your toilet. You can choose the best method for your item based on its size, durability, and sensitivity. Your item will be as good as new no matter how long it takes!
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