Bacteria are so small, too tiny to be seen by the naked eye, that people often overlook their existence, allowing them to lurk in certain neglected corners of the home, such as the frequently used but rarely cleaned TV remote control. Studies have shown that TV remote controls are prone to harboring dirt and germs, being 15 times dirtier than toilet seats, yet few people actually bother to clean them.
A recent study conducted by Churchill Home Insurance in the UK revealed that the average TV remote control contains a significant amount of Enterobacteriaceae bacteria, 15 times more than that found on toilet seats. It also harbors moderate levels of yeast and mold, along with small amounts of streptococcus bacteria. In comparison, while the amount of Enterobacteriaceae bacteria on toilet seats is lower, they contain more yeast and mold, and a moderate level of streptococcus.
Streptococcus bacteria is a type that can potentially cause infections posing a risk to life. On the other hand, Enterobacteriaceae bacteria are found in feces and may lead to pneumonia and blood infections.
A survey conducted by the company among 2,000 people in the UK revealed that individuals press TV remote controls an average of around 150 times per day, including channel surfing and adjusting volume, yet few bother to clean it regularly. 25% of the respondents admitted to never having wiped down their TV remote control.
Sarah Khan, spokesperson for the company, stated, “Of all the items we studied, including bedding, kitchen surfaces, laptops, light switches, and even toilet seats, TV remote controls have the highest amount of Enterobacteriaceae bacteria. In fact, the amount of Enterobacteriaceae bacteria on TV remote controls is 15 times greater than on an average toilet seat.”
According to the study, bedsheets rank as the second highest item in a household in terms of Enterobacteriaceae bacteria content, just following TV remote controls. Bedsheets tend to harbor a significant amount of streptococcus bacteria, with moderate levels of Enterobacteriaceae bacteria, yeast, and mold. Experts recommend washing bedsheets weekly in hot water to kill bacteria effectively.
Khan emphasized, “Our research highlights the importance of not taking household cleaning lightly. Even areas commonly wiped down, such as kitchen countertops, could be harboring a significant amount of bacteria. Therefore, ensuring the use of proper products, clean cloths, and thorough cleaning is crucial in reducing health risks.”
She added, “Simultaneously, regularly washing bedsheets, cleaning hands, and taking necessary hygiene measures will help in resisting harmful bacteria, especially as we enter the fall and winter seasons where illnesses and bugs are more prevalent.”
Moreover, mobile phones serve as a breeding ground for pathogenic bacteria as well. A study by the University of Arizona in 2012 found that the bacteria on mobile phones outnumber those on toilet seats by 10 times.
This is primarily due to the modern habit of keeping phones close at all times, even while using the restroom. Experts advise cultivating the habit of frequent handwashing, along with disinfecting phones daily.
When it comes to cleaning the TV remote control, which harbors the most bacteria in a household, it is recommended to follow these three steps:
(1) Remove the batteries, then wipe off the dust using a soft microfiber cloth.
(2) Spray an antibacterial disinfectant on a clean surface of the microfiber cloth and use it to wipe the front and back of the remote control. Alternatively, antibacterial wet wipes can also be…
(3) If needed, use a cotton swab to clean between the buttons. Toothpicks can be used to remove dirt around the buttons. Reinsert the batteries once the remote control is dry.
Similar methods can be used to clean any game controllers. Remember to unplug the power cord before cleaning.
Experts recommend cleaning the TV remote control monthly, with more frequent cleaning advised if someone in the household is ill. And remember to wash your hands after using the restroom!