A recent study has found that half of smartphone users don’t always clean their devices after taking them to the toilet. The survey, conducted among 2,000 adults, revealed that 60% of respondents admitted to using their phones in the bathroom, but many failed to clean them afterward as they would their hands. This behavior raises concerns about the potential spread of germs, as 57% of respondents reported placing their phones on the kitchen counter, 47% on the dining table, and 43% in their beds after using them in the toilet. The research also found that three out of ten participants never disinfect their TV remotes, despite the fact that these devices are touched an average of 5,475 times per year per person. Interestingly, 49% of respondents confessed to never considering how germs can spread through shared household items. Notably, the study identified several other household items that are often rarely or never cleaned, including salt and pepper shakers, kettles, condiments, and light switches. To address these concerns, Dettol has partnered with TV home expert and mother of four, Sarah Beeny, to introduce GermWare, a line of antibacterial items made from copper. This range includes a TV remote control, a games console controller, and a mobile phone case. Beeny emphasized the importance of raising awareness about germ transmission, particularly within families. The study’s findings suggest that 69% of respondents would be more likely to disinfect household items if they could visually see germs or bacteria on them. Additionally, over a third (36%) admitted to using and sharing the same hand towel multiple times, while 27% allowed pets to climb on furniture and bedding without disinfecting these surfaces. Alarmingly, 13% even confessed to preparing food without washing their hands first. However, after being presented with information about germ-related risks, 33% of participants expressed a change in perspective on germ transmission, and 43% indicated an increased likelihood of disinfecting shared items more frequently. David Shillcock of Dettol commented on the survey findings, highlighting that the people we love may inadvertently contribute to the spread of germs. He emphasized that germs are primarily transmitted through human behavior, and that our homes can harbor more germs than we realize. While acknowledging that germ-spreading behaviors are a part of everyday life, Shillcock stressed the importance of celebrating relationships while minimizing the spread of germs. The GermWare range, made from copper, serves as a reminder of the potential for germ transmission through common behaviors. While it is not feasible to make everything out of copper, Shillcock encouraged individuals to continue engaging in their daily activities while taking steps to prevent the spread of germs.
Dirty habits: Half of users don’t clean mobile phones after using them in the toilet
