A US-based study has found that reusable water bottles could hold more bacteria than a toilet seat.
The research by WaterFilterGuru.com stated that such reusable water bottles can shelter up to 40,000 times more bacteria than the average toilet seat.
When researchers compared bacteria present between bottles and other household objects, it was revealed that bottles contain twice as germs as the kitchen sink and they can carry four times the amount of bacteria as a computer mouse; and 14 times more than a pet’s drinking bowl.
How dangerous are the bacteria present on bottles?
As per the article, the human mouth is home to a large number and range of different bacteria, so it’s not surprising that drinking vessels are covered in microbes.
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While bottles may serve as a breeding ground for high numbers of bacteria, it’s not necessarily dangerous. Water bottles are likely to be contaminated with the bacteria that are already in people’s mouths.
How often should the bottles be cleaned?
Experts recommend washing it at least once a day with hot soapy water, and sanitizing it at least once a week – though increase the habit if you’ve been unwell, drink from it while eating, or are filling it with something other than water.
