This item in your bathroom is dirtier than your toilet bowl, says study; see how to clean it

Dr Rupkatha Sen, critical care consultant, SRV Hospitals tells indianexpress.com, “On average, a toilet seat carries approximately 50 bacteria per square inch, a stark contrast to the nearly 10 million bacteria per square inch typically found on bath mats.”

We asked her why that is and expert advice on how to properly disinfect bath mats.

Why are bath mats even dirtier than toilet bowls?

Bath mats or rugs tend to remain in hot and humid conditions for extended periods, creating an ideal environment for various microorganisms to thrive.

These items are typically cleaned less frequently on a day-to-day basis, making them among the most contaminated objects in the bathroom.

In contrast, toilet bowls generally harbour fewer germs because they are regularly cleaned, as opposed to bath mats or rugs. Moreover, maintaining proper hand hygiene through regular handwashing with soap and water or sanitizer after using the toilet further reduces the transmission of germs.

How to properly clean bath mats?

Bath mats can often harbor germs responsible for common skin infections like athlete’s foot, as well as respiratory illnesses. Here are some ways to disinfect them.

• Ensure they are thoroughly dried on a daily basis after their use.
• Wash your bath mat at least once a week. Start by giving it a good shake to remove any loose dirt. Then, washing it with detergent and hot water, followed by complete sun drying, can effectively disinfect it.
• Adding a capful of vinegar to the washing solution can also enhance disinfection.
• Replace bath mats every two years.
• Use stone bath mats made of diatomaceous earth to prevent the bath mat problem.

📣 For more lifestyle news, follow us on Instagram | Twitter | Facebook and don’t miss out on the latest updates!