A new study published in the journal Environmental Science and Technology has revealed some shocking results about the amount of germs transmitted from towels to bathrooms.
The Study
The study was conducted by researchers from the University of Arizona, who analyzed 82 towels after one month of use.
The results showed that all of the towels had some level of bacteria on them, with some of the towels having up to 1,000 times more bacteria than the other towels.
The researchers found that the bacteria on towels are most likely to be found on the areas of the towel that are used to dry the face and hands, as these areas are more likely to come into contact with bacteria on the skin.
The Bacteria Found
The bacteria found on the towels included E. coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Enterococcus faecalis, all of which can cause illness in humans.
E. coli is a type of bacteria that is commonly found in the human gut, and can cause diarrhea, abdominal pain, and vomiting if it is ingested.
Staphylococcus aureus is a bacteria that is commonly found on the skin, and can cause skin infections, food poisoning, and pneumonia. Enterococcus faecalis is a type of bacteria that is commonly found in the intestines, and can cause urinary tract infections, bacteremia, and endocarditis.
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Tips for Keeping Towels Clean
To keep towels clean, the researchers recommend changing them regularly, and washing them in hot water with bleach to kill any bacteria that may be on them.
They also recommend using paper towels or hand dryers in public restrooms, as these are less likely to transmit bacteria than cloth towels.
Additionally, the researchers recommend using separate towels for each member of the household, to avoid the transfer of bacteria between individuals.
This can be especially important in households where one or more members have a compromised immune system, as they may be more susceptible to illness caused by bacteria.
Conclusion
The study shows that towels can be a significant source of bacteria in the bathroom, and that it is important to take steps to keep them clean and prevent the transfer of bacteria between individuals.
By following the recommendations of the researchers, we can reduce the risk of illness caused by bacteria on towels, and keep our bathrooms and homes a healthier place to be.
