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Your phone might be bringing cockroach bacteria to bed- Here’s what to do about it
Skin rashes, pneumonia, and even sepsis in susceptible people are among the health issues that this bacterium can cause.
Researchers found that we are more at risk of bacteria building up while scrolling on our phones. Photo culled from calm.com
We’ve all been there: browsing through our phones in bed to see if there’s anything new before falling asleep. However, that small behaviour can be affecting more than just your sleep schedule. Recent research suggests that bacteria often seen in cockroach droppings may be present on your phone.
Yes, you read correctly. Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a repulsive bacteria frequently associated with cockroaches, is one of the dangerous germs that can thrive on the typical smartphone. Skin rashes, pneumonia, and even sepsis in susceptible people are among the health issues that this bacterium can cause.
Your Bed: The Perfect Breeding Ground for Bacteria
According to research done by MattressNextDay and U.S. scientists, germs thrive in the warm, humid atmosphere of your bed. Given that individuals use their phones more than 2,600 times a day, it’s no surprise that these gadgets turn into tiny germ factories.
The typical smartphone is ten times dirty than a toilet seat, previous studies have stated.
Pseudomonas aeruginosa was the most prevalent bacterium detected in the 10 smartphones and smartwatches that the researchers swabbed for this study. This same bacterium is well known for causing skin rashes, eye infections, and even more serious illnesses including sepsis and pneumonia.
Why Are Smartphones So Gross?
Our phones are with us everywhere, from the bathroom to the bedroom, and every touch transfers bacteria to the device. On top of that, sweat from sleeping—about 700ml per night—along with the 20°C temperature in most beds, creates the ideal petri dish for bacteria to multiply.
As Martin Seeley, CEO of MattressNextDay, pointed out, “Your bed should be a sanctuary for rest, not a petri dish for harmful bacteria.”
How to Clean Up Your Act—and Your Tech
While the bacteria present on most phones would not harm healthy people, others with weakened immune systems face a high risk. What is the good news? You may quickly lower the bacterial burden on your gadgets by following a few simple steps.
Clean your phone regularly: To destroy bacteria, use alcohol wipes or a UV sanitiser, focussing on the areas that come into contact with your face.
Limit your phone’s touch with your face and bed to reduce germ exposure.
Use phone-specific sanitisers: Japan’s Narita Airport sells ‘toilet paper for cellphones’ to keep your phone clean while using the lavatory.
Considering where our phones have gone and what’s growing on them is crucial in a world where they are essentially an extension of who we are. The next time you bring your phone to bed, you might want to reconsider because regular cleaning can help you prevent coming into contact with dangerous bacteria.
Your sleep and overall health will appreciate it!
