In a world where hygiene is increasingly prioritized, a startup called Cleana is addressing a common yet often overlooked problem: dirty toilet seats. Co-founded by Richard Li, an MIT graduate student, Cleana has engineered a self-lifting toilet seat designed to improve sanitation in public bathrooms. This innovation aims to create a cleaner and more hygienic experience for users, particularly in high-traffic areas like schools, airports, and gyms.
The idea for Cleana emerged during the COVID-19 pandemic, a time when public health concerns were at the forefront of everyone’s mind. Li, who was studying mechanical engineering at MIT, partnered with co-founders Kevin Tang, Max Pounanov, and Andy Chang, students from Boston University, to tackle the issue of toilet seat cleanliness. The team began their journey by prototyping various designs in MIT’s D-Lab and Sidney-Pacific dormitory, utilizing 3D printers and other tools to refine their product.
The founders faced numerous challenges in their quest to revolutionize the toilet seat. Li dedicated many nights to visiting public restrooms around Boston, disassembling existing toilet seats to test the fit of Cleana’s design. Through extensive market research, including awkward yet informative user interviews outside local bowling alleys, they gathered valuable feedback that ultimately guided their development process. Their efforts paid off, as a months-long study revealed that Cleana’s toilet seat prevented nearly 95% of common messes in deployed bathrooms.
Cleana's smart toilet seat may appear similar to a traditional model, but its functionality sets it apart. The seat operates mechanically, lifting itself after a predetermined time to avoid contact with mess-prone areas. Importantly, it detects when someone is using it, adjusting its position accordingly. This feature is particularly beneficial in public men’s and all-gender restrooms, where splatter is a frequent issue. Additionally, the seat is infused with antimicrobial agents to further enhance hygiene, and its unique handle allows users to lift it without direct contact.
Feedback from customers has been overwhelmingly positive, with many reporting a significant reduction in toilet seat messes and less frequent maintenance needs. Businesses that have installed Cleana’s seats have noted that cleaning staff no longer need to check bathrooms as often, leading to time and cost savings. This efficiency is a game-changer for facilities that previously required multiple daily cleanings.
Cleana is also developing a premium version of its seat for residential use, which will automatically lower both the toilet seat and lid. This innovative design aims to eliminate the age-old debate over whether to lower the seat after use, while also providing safety for young children and pets. The interest in this new product has been substantial, with several plumbing companies expressing enthusiasm and conducting surveys that indicate a strong consumer demand.
Li's vision extends beyond just improving public restrooms. He hopes to see Cleana's smart seats installed in gas stations and restaurants across the country. Recently, he experienced a moment of joy when he discovered one of Cleana’s seats in a restroom during a trip to Roche Brothers in Watertown, Massachusetts. This encounter reinforced his commitment to the mission of making clean toilet seats a standard feature everywhere.
As Cleana continues to grow, Li remains focused on the importance of hygiene and sanitation in public spaces. His journey from a master’s student at MIT to a startup founder exemplifies how innovative thinking can address everyday challenges. With Cleana's self-lifting toilet seat, the future of bathroom hygiene looks brighter, promising a cleaner experience for everyone.
