GP and wellness specialist Dr Aarthi Sinha has warned that failing to wash water bottles properly can lead to stomach bugs. She explained that bacteria can build up on the sides of bottles and contaminate the water, potentially causing diarrhoea and vomiting.
Dr Sinha recommends washing water bottles daily, just like tea mugs and coffee cups. She also suggests occasional deep cleaning with sterilising tablets, similar to those used for baby bottles, if compatible with the bottle.
The GP also highlighted hygiene risks at the gym. She advised against using exercise mats without wiping them first, as bodily fluids can contain dead skin cells and bugs that may cause skin infections, coughs, and colds.
Re-wearing gym clothing is discouraged due to sweat and dead skin cells that can lead to skin infections like impetigo and thrush. Dr Sinha recommends turning gym kit inside out before washing at low temperatures and avoiding fabric softeners.
Research cited by FitRated found that gym free weights harbour 362 times more bacteria than a toilet seat, and treadmills contain 74 times more bacteria than a public bathroom tap. Additionally, studies on washing machines and dryers found E. coli in 20% of drums, which can cause diarrhoea and cystitis.
