Almost all people can recall their mothers telling them to brush their teeth before going to sleep and to say “please” and “thank you” when applicable. But there seems to be one piece of motherly advice many people seem to forget – how to act in the restroom.I can’t begin to count how many times I have witnessed someone leaving the restroom without visiting the sink before the door – not just students but faculty, too.

There is some simple bathroom etiquette everyone should follow.

First and foremost, after you’ve done your business, wash your hands – if not for yourself, then for those around you. It takes less than 30 seconds and is good hygiene. Friends call me obsessive-compulsive because I refuse to open the bathroom door with my bare hand, but it’s perfectly logical. Why would I put my freshly cleansed hands all over the door handle when people walk straight out of stalls and touch that knob with their dirty hands?

When you are finished doing what you came into the restroom to do, flush the toilet. No one wants to walk into the stall after you and see what’s left behind. If it takes more than one flush to get the job done, wait and flush again. This isn’t exactly open-heart surgery, people.

The next bathroom policy to be followed is strictly for the men; when space allows, there should be at least one urinal between you and the other gentleman. This helps those who may have “stage fright” relieve themselves a little easier and also acts as both a privacy and splash guard. Anyone who has been in a men’s restroom can attest the fact that some men have really awful aim. Come on guys, it’s not like you’re aiming at something the size of a quarter.

Why is it that people think the restroom is a place to socialize? I don’t know about some of you, but when I’m in an awkward situation, doing my private business, the last thing I want to do is hear John Doe over there complaining about his girlfriend, class or fraternity. Get in, get your business taken care of, wash your hands and leave.

Also, don’t talk on your cell phone while you’re on the porcelain throne. I don’t want to hear your conversation, and I’m pretty sure the person on the other end of the line doesn’t want to hear all your bodily functions. If you can’t wait two minutes to talk to the person, you might want to check your priorities.

The bathroom should be a place strictly for a person to do his or her business with as much privacy as possible. The next time you’re in the restroom, remember these basic etiquette rules, and everyone will be much appreciative.

Jeff Eskew is a senior broadcast journalism major from China Spring.