Peeing while standing may be a common practice for men in many parts of the world, but new insights suggest it’s far from hygienic. In fact, studies and expert opinions are advocating for men to sit while urinating to avoid the unhygienic mess that can spread beyond the toilet bowl.
Why Peeing Standing Up Is a Problem
Standing to pee causes more splash-back than most men realize. When urine hits the back of the toilet bowl, it can send up to 7,550 droplets of urine splashing back into the surrounding area. Even aiming for the middle reduces splash-back to 372 droplets, but that’s still enough to spread urine particles on nearby surfaces.
A shocking revelation from viral videos on platforms like X.com (formerly Twitter) has shown that standing to pee can launch droplets up to 91 centimeters (36 inches) from the toilet. This means that urine could potentially contaminate toothbrushes, towels, or toilet paper—items we use in daily hygiene routines. The spread of bacteria-laden droplets from this splash-back is what makes this practice grossly unhygienic.
What the Experts Say
Medical professionals agree that sitting down while urinating can help minimize these hygiene concerns. Not only does it significantly reduce the risk of spreading bacteria, but it’s also better for men’s health.
According to Gerald Collins, a consultant urological surgeon at the Alexandra Hospital, the sitting position is the “most efficient” for men to fully empty their bladder. By allowing for a more complete release of urine, sitting can prevent potential bladder issues down the line.
The Shift Toward Sitting—Cultural Differences
In some countries, like Germany, sitting to urinate is more common. A YouGov survey revealed that 60% of German men sit when they urinate, a habit often taught from a young age. This approach contrasts with countries like the US, where standing is still the norm. However, given the health and hygiene advantages, some experts believe that this practice could spread to other parts of the world.
Public Reactions and Future Trends
The viral nature of this discussion on social media has ignited debates, with people sharing reactions like, “Am I the only guy who wasn’t taught the hazards of peeing while standing?” Some men have pointed out that they’ve already switched to sitting, primarily for cleanliness.
As awareness grows, more men may reconsider their bathroom habits, especially in light of hygiene concerns. Who knows—this could be the beginning of a widespread shift in behavior across the globe.
