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In a world increasingly focused on cleanliness and hygiene, Cleana, founded by MIT’s CTO Richard Li SM ’24, has emerged with a solution: an antibacterial, self-lifting toilet seat designed to transform the restroom experience. Far from traditional tech innovations, Cleana’s product addresses a universal concern with a simple yet effective mechanical solution.
The journey began during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic when hygiene practices became a top priority worldwide. Richard Li, then a master’s student at MIT’s Department of Mechanical Engineering, teamed up with co-founders Kevin Tang, Max Pounanov, and Andy Chang from Boston University to tackle the challenge of improving restroom hygiene through innovative design.
Cleana’s development process was iterative. The team experimented with various designs using hand tools, heavy machinery, and 3D printers, starting with prototypes built in MIT’s Sidney-Pacific dormitory and MIT D-Lab. The goal was clear: to create a toilet seat that not only lifted automatically but also maintained high standards of cleanliness without relying on batteries or electronics.
Early prototypes faced challenges, particularly in balancing the seat’s lifting mechanism with usability and maintenance requirements. The team conducted extensive market research, including hands-on trials in public restrooms across Boston, gathering user feedback. These insights were crucial in refining Cleana’s design to meet the real-world demands of different restroom environments.
Cleana’s smart toilet seat operates on a unique mechanical system that lifts itself after each use. This feature eliminates the need for users to touch the seat and ensures a consistently cleaner and drier surface compared to conventional seats. The seat’s antimicrobial properties further reduce the spread of germs, making it an ideal choice for high-traffic areas such as schools, airports, gyms, and stadiums.
“A lot of people initially find it odd,” he admits, “but once they experience the difference in hygiene and convenience, they understand its value.” The seat’s automatic lifting mechanism activates after a predetermined time delay, ensuring it remains elevated during cleaning intervals, thereby minimising contact with potential contaminants.
Since its inception, Cleana has rapidly scaled its operations, with installations in prominent locations, where the technology originated. Feedback from these deployments has been overwhelmingly positive, with facility managers reporting reduced cleaning times and improved restroom hygiene metrics.
Looking ahead, Cleana is poised to introduce a premium version of its self-lifting seat designed for residential use. This model not only lifts the seat but also automatically lowers the seat and lid, addressing common household concerns and preferences. The adaptation of Cleana’s technology for home environments underscores its versatility and potential to become a household staple.
Richard and his team are optimistic about the product’s future, citing partnerships with major plumbing companies and ongoing research into new applications and improvements.
Beyond commercial success, Cleana aims to redefine global restroom hygiene standards. “Our vision is to see Cleana seats in every restroom, from public facilities to private homes,” Richard affirms. “We want to make cleanliness effortless and accessible to everyone.” Richard’s commitment to innovation and user-centric design positions it at the forefront of a hygiene revolution, where technology meets everyday needs meaningfully.
As Cleana continues to expand its reach and refine its products, Richard remains dedicated to pushing boundaries and setting new standards for restroom hygiene. With each installation, Cleana enhances cleanliness and promotes a healthier, more hygienic environment for all.
