Have you been washing your water bottles?

Recently, a study found that reusable water bottles have 40,000 more bacteria than toilet seats. There were 2 different types of bacteria detected. Both are becoming extremely resistant to antibiotics and can cause gastrointestinal issues. If you have been feeling sick, it may be because of your water bottle… 

Two different types of bacteria were found called Gram-negative Rods and Bacilli. The Centers for Disease Control has stated that Gram-negative bacteria can lead to illnesses such as pneumonia, meningitis, and other infections that are extremely resistant to antibiotics… It is proven that Bacillus is the leading cause of Anthrax causing even more severe illnesses.

Different types of water bottles have more bacteria. Researchers swabbed different parts of the water bottle such as the screw top lid, the stray lid, the spout, and the squeeze lid. The cleanest are squeeze-top water bottles. They are proven to have the lowest amount of bacteria and one-tenth the amount of most water bottles. Straw-fitted lids and screw tops are tested to have the highest amount of bacteria.

The study also concluded that the Gen-Z generation washes their water bottles the least. Only 16% were said to have washed their water bottle every day. The study also found out that 88% of Americans care about the quality of their water but only 42% wash their water bottles. 

Experts recommend washing your water bottle 1-2 times per day. If you are sick or put other liquids into your bottle other than water, you should wash it even more! This is especially for sugary drinks. Try to avoid this bacteria and start washing your water bottles!