The flush handle is pressed, lifting the flapper, setting in motion about 10 seconds of flushing genius. The lifted flapper releases tank water into the bowl via rim jets and the larger siphon jet.

The bathroom is supposed to be a place of control. A quick flush, a rinse, a wash of the hands, and everything seems handled. Clean, contained, finished. That confidence, though, leans heavily on one ...

File this one under “Studies We Wish Had Let Us Remain Ignorant.” Scientists at the University of Arizona decided to investigate whether closing the toilet lid before flushing reduces ...