Invisible Contamination: Bacterial Hotspots in Everyday Life
A study has revealed that the sofa, considered the most comfortable place in the home, is 75 times more contaminated than a toilet. While it may appear neat at first glance, the analysis indicates that the density of bacteria is much higher than that of a bathroom.
On the 9th of this month (local time), the British daily Daily Mail reported on the joint research findings of the Melbeck Microbiology Institute and the sofa manufacturer 'Sofa Club'.
The research team analyzed the surface of sofas in six households across the United Kingdom using cotton swabs and found an average of 508,883 aerobic mesophilic bacteria (AMB) per 100 cm². This figure is approximately 75 times higher than the bacteria count found on a toilet seat (6,800).
Households with Pets Show 'Shocking' Levels of E. coli
The level of contamination was particularly severe in homes with pets. In a household with two cats, over 1 million E. coli were detected per 100 cm² on the sofa. A couple with a dog had a sofa with 193,000 CFU (colony-forming units), while a sofa belonging to a single adult recorded 46,000 CFU. These levels are 28 times and more than 6 times higher than that of a toilet, respectively.
The research team also investigated various household items in addition to the sofa. Substantial amounts of bacteria were found on office desks (5,900 AMB per 100 cm²), laptops (5,800 AMB), and TV remotes (3,700 AMB). Although these figures were lower than those of a toilet, the analysis suggests they are relatively cleaner compared to the heavily used sofa.
Regular Maintenance is Essential to Prevent Bacteria
Monica Puccio, an interior expert from Sofa Club, stated, "Many people regularly wash their bed sheets and pillows while neglecting sofa maintenance." She added, "The sofa is an environment where bacteria can easily thrive due to frequent contact during meals, sleeping, and activities with pets."
Puccio recommended that to prevent bacterial growth, sofa covers should be washed at least once a month, and baking soda should be sprinkled over the entire sofa, which should then be vacuumed after 20-30 minutes. She emphasized that households with young children or pets need to be especially vigilant in maintaining cleanliness.
Image source: Reference images for better understanding of the article / gettyimagesbank, gettyimagesbank
