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While bathrooms are meant to keep us clean, they can also be hotspots for bacterial growth if not properly sanitized. Some bacteria are harmless, while others can cause illness or infection. For this study, we investigated the amount of bacteria found on common bathroom items. We then compared these findings to everyday objects, revealing the surprising number of germs we're exposed to at home and abroad.
Key Findings
- A bidet has over 65x the bacteria of an airport check-in kiosk.
- A computer mouse has over 5x more bacteria than a toilet stool.
- A petrol pump handle has over 4x the bacteria of a toilet bowl cleaner handle.
- A bathroom rug has about the same bacteria as a reusable water bottle.
Uncovering Bathroom Germs
This section explores the quantities and types of bacteria found on different bathroom items. CFUs, or colony-forming units, indicate the number of viable bacteria cells in a sample that can multiply and form colonies.
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Bidets are often praised for their hygiene benefits, but they can harbor an incredible number of germs. We found bidets had a significant bacterial load, with gram-negative rods comprising 89% of their total 16.9 million colony-forming units (CFUs). Bacillus made up 9%, and type II gram-negative rods accounted for 2%.
In comparison, bathroom rugs had the highest bacterial count of all items tested. Gram-positive rods dominated these flooring coverings, accounting for 85% of their total 31.7 million CFUs. We also found gram-negative rods (6%) and type II gram-positive rods (9%) on bathroom rugs.
Toilet bowl cleaner handles also showed a substantial bacterial presence, with 48% gram-negative rods, 46% type II gram-negative rods, and 6% type III, out of a total of 8.7 million CFUs. The toilet stool was the least contaminated item, with 87% gram-negative rods and 13% gram-positive cocci, up to 780,000 CFUs.
Given the high bacterial load on these items, you might be rethinking your current bathroom habits. Don't get overwhelmed, though - just clean regularly and always wash your hands.
Bacteria on Everyday Items
Think the bathroom is the germiest place? Think again. This section compares the bacterial presence on bidets and other bathroom items with everyday objects you might encounter.
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It's easy to assume that certain places or things might be cleaner than others, but what's really going on under the microscope is surprising.
Here's how everyday objects stacked up against our four bathroom items:
- Airport check-in kiosks were cleaner than bidets. We found that a bidet had over 65 times the bacteria of this high-touch surface.
- Reusable water bottles were as bacteria-ridden as your bathroom rug.
- Computer mice were dirtier than you'd imagine, having five times more bacteria than a toilet stool for your feet.
- Petrol pump handles were a bacterial playground, with four times more germs than toilet bowl cleaner handles.
These results reveal how commonly touched surfaces in public and private spaces can accumulate significant amounts of bacteria - often more than we might expect.
The Bottom Line on Bathroom Bacteria
Bacteria are more widespread than most people realize, thriving on surfaces both in and out of the bathroom. This study reveals unexpected germ hotspots, from bidets to computer mice. Armed with this knowledge, we can better target our cleaning efforts. Handwashing and regular sanitization of high-touch areas are key to reducing exposure to potentially harmful bacteria. So, grab that disinfectant soap and show those germs who's boss!
Methodology
We conducted three-gram and stain culture swab tests of common bathroom items. Each surface was swabbed three times. CFUs per swab were averaged for each surface type. It is possible that with a larger sample size of surfaces, we could have gained more insight into CFU levels. No statistical testing was performed, and the above claims are based on means alone. As such, this content is exploratory. Bacteria definitions were sourced from ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, britannica.com, and sciencedirect.com.
About QS Supplies
QS Supplies is a premier retailer of high-quality bathroom products in the UK. Our extensive range includes luxurious shower enclosures, stylish basin taps, smart toilets and elegant bathroom furniture, ensuring your bathroom reflects your personal style and meets your practical needs.
Fair Use Statement
Redistribution of this data for noncommercial purposes is permitted, provided there's a link back to this page.
