Proper Etiquette for Brushing Teeth at Work: Bathroom vs. Break Room

The debate over where to brush teeth at work is a topic that has roused much discussion. While many offices are equipped with both a break room and a bathroom, the etiquette of using these spaces for personal hygiene can sometimes be confusing. Here, we explore the best practices and considerations when deciding where to brush teeth during your work breaks.

Why Brushing Teeth at Work?

The idea of brushing your teeth at work might seem unusual to some, but it is a common practice, especially in environments where work demands intensive focus and long hours. Proper dental hygiene can boost overall health and well-being, leading to better concentration and performance at work. However, the choice of where to brush your teeth requires careful consideration to maintain a professional and hygienic environment.

The Bathroom: A Dedicated Space for Personal Hygiene

The bathroom is the most appropriate space for personal hygiene activities, including brushing teeth. It is equipped with clean water, proper lighting, a mirror, and modern toiletries. Using the bathroom for personal hygiene respects the privacy and comfort of colleagues and adheres to the principle of maintaining a professional work atmosphere. It is also courteous to other employees who may be using the bathroom at the same time, ensuring that there are no interruptions or unpleasant smells.

The Break Room: A Shared Space for Meals and Breaks

The break room is a shared space where employees gather to eat meals and take short breaks. It is designed to promote a positive work culture and support social interaction among colleagues. Brushing your teeth in the break room can be seen as inappropriate as it may lead to messy sinks, water stains, and other hygiene-related issues. Additionally, the break room is often where employees share food, making it unsuitable for personal hygiene activities that can be perceived as unprofessional or intrusive.

Office Settings with Shared Bathroom Facilities

In some office environments, especially smaller ones, an office might share a bathroom facility with other employees. In such cases, it is essential to use the bathroom for personal hygiene activities. Locking the door ensures privacy and hygiene, and the process of brushing teeth should be completed efficiently to minimize disturbance to others. It is advisable to pack up any toiletries or cleaning materials used and leave the bathroom clean and tidy to ensure it remains a hygienic space for everyone.

Workplaces Without Access to a Bathroom

In cases where office space is limited or a bathroom is not available, employees might need to find alternative solutions. For instance, in airport workplaces, making use of the restroom in the public area can be a viable option. These restrooms are typically well-maintained and equipped with necessary toiletries. The act of brushing teeth in a public restroom should be done discreetly, using a reasonable amount of time to avoid drawing attention.

Common Misconceptions and Controversies

Some individuals argue that brushing teeth in a break room is acceptable, citing their own practices at the airport where they use a public restroom. It is important to remember that different environments have different norms and expectations. In an office setting, the break room is designed for food and break activities, not for personal hygiene. Brushing your teeth there could raise hygiene and professionalism concerns among colleagues.

Conclusion

Proper etiquette for brushing teeth at work involves using the bathroom for personal hygiene and the break room for meal and social activities. Whether in a fully equipped office with both facilities or in a more restrictive environment, maintaining professionalism and respect for your colleagues should be your primary goal. Using the bathroom ensures a hygienic and professional environment, contributing to a positive and healthy workplace culture.