A recent study has uncovered just how much time Americans spend on their phones while using the bathroom — and the number is surprising. On average, people in the U.S. spend about 49 hours a year engaged in toilet scrolling. That’s a little more than two full days spent browsing, texting, or watching videos while on the toilet.
The data comes from a survey conducted by QS Supplies, a bathroom products company, which questioned 500 Americans about their habits. Most people admitted to using their phones on the toilet for a range of activities: 66% scroll through social media, 40% watch videos, 37% reply to messages, 36% read the news or send emails, 29% play games, and some even use the time to shop online or work. Surprisingly, 2% admitted to taking video calls while in the bathroom.
Toilet scrolling is especially common among Gen Z — those born between 1997 and 2012 — who average about 54 hours per year doing it. Many people even delay getting off the toilet just to finish what they’re doing on their phones, with 61% admitting they stay seated longer for that reason. Additionally, 42% use the bathroom as a way to escape others and find a bit of privacy.
More than half (51%) said they use that time to enjoy being alone, making toilet scrolling a personal ritual for many. However, only one in four people clean their phones afterward, raising concerns about hygiene. Doctors warn that bacteria on phones can lead to colds, stomach bugs, and other illnesses.
Medical experts have also pointed out that extended time on the toilet can lead to health issues like hemorrhoids — sometimes jokingly referred to as “TikTok tush.” Prolonged sitting, especially while distracted, increases the risk of these painful conditions.
To reduce health risks, doctors recommend putting the phone away during bathroom breaks and suggest limiting your time on the toilet to 10-15 minutes. Reducing toilet scrolling may help protect both your hygiene and your health.
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