YuhanKimberly Conducts Toilet Flushing Droplet Experiment: "Recommends Enclosed Toilet Paper Dispensers"

Droplet Particles Splash Up to 92 cm
Kleenex Centerpull Recommended for Use

YuhanKimberly announced on May 2 that it had conducted an industry-academia collaboration with Kookmin University under the theme "Study on Contamination Characteristics of Aerosolized Substances Generated by Toilet Flushing."

Scene of droplet dispersion experiment during toilet flushing. Provided by YuhanKimberly

In spaces such as multi-use facilities and hospitals, where unspecified numbers of people share restroom facilities, it is especially important to maintain high hygiene standards. YuhanKimberly focused on the dispersion behavior of aerosolized substances generated during toilet flushing and the routes through which contamination occurs. In collaboration with the Paper Process and Environmental Analysis Laboratory at Kookmin University, the company conducted research to propose hygienic and safe public restroom usage methods.

According to the experiment results, when the toilet was flushed without closing the lid, droplet particles rose up to a height of 92 cm and remained airborne for about one minute. The droplets were found to spread to surrounding surfaces, such as toilet paper dispensers and walls. In particular, for toilet paper dispensers with an open bottom?commonly installed in public restrooms?there was a high possibility that toilet paper, which hangs down, could become contaminated by droplet particles. Kim Hyeongjin, a professor in the Department of Forest Resources and Life Science at Kookmin University, stated, "If droplets come into contact with microorganisms or viruses in the air, there is a possibility of cross-infection, so careful hygiene management is necessary."

The research team suggested measures to prevent contamination, including wiping the toilet surface with a seat cleaner before use and using an enclosed toilet paper dispenser with minimal exposed surface area, rather than open-bottom dispensers. Kleenex Centerpull by YuhanKimberly exposes only about 2% of the toilet paper surface compared to open dispensers, significantly reducing the risk of contamination from aerosolized particles during flushing.

An official from the YuhanKimberly Seocho Research Center said, "Through this study, we confirmed the dispersion behavior of droplets and the impact of contamination contact during flushing. We plan to actively promote solutions such as the Kleenex Centerpull toilet paper with an enclosed dispenser and toilet seat cleaners that can remove contact contaminants," adding, "Through these efforts, we aim to create healthier and more hygienic public restroom environments and further improve consumer awareness and usage patterns."