In the scorching heat of Singapore, carrying a water bottle has become an essential accessory for many. However, recent warnings from experts shed light on a concerning issue: our reusable bottles may not be as clean as we assume.
Image: Tappwater
Infrequent and inadequate cleaning can transform our dependable bottles into breeding grounds for bacteria and mould. Surprisingly, even renowned hydration brands like Nalgene, Owala, Hydroflask, and Stanley are not immune to the accumulation of germs.
A study conducted in the United States revealed a startling fact: reusable water bottles could harbor more bacteria than commonly perceived items like kitchen sinks, computer mice, or even toilet seats.
During an interview with CNA on Talking Point, water quality expert Kwok Chen Ko explains, "When we consume food, we have food particles in our mouth. And once we bring this water bottle to our mouth to drink, … some of them can get stuck within the water bottle," providing a feast for bacteria and mould, especially in the absence of thorough cleaning.
But what constitutes thorough cleaning, and how many of us are genuinely safeguarding our health? Programs like Talking Point delve into misconceptions about bottle hygiene and the harsh realities that accompany neglect.
Substances like sugars and fats from beverages like tea, coffee, and syrups can easily accumulate in water bottles, creating ideal conditions for bacterial and mould growth. However, the absence of such substances does not guarantee a germ-free environment.
For instance, a bottle solely used to store water in the fridge had the highest mould count, emphasizing that mould thrives in moist environments, especially when bottles are rarely washed.
So, what's the solution?
Kwok recommends washing bottles daily, using a brush with detergent to scrub both the interior and exterior, paying special attention to areas in contact with the lips, such as bottle rims and caps. Cleaning narrow-mouthed bottles or straws can be challenging, but a properly sized brush, like a wire brush for straws, can help.
Associate Professor Adison Wong highlights the risk of certain bacteria like pseudomonas and cyanobacteria, which can cause gastrointestinal issues and respiratory tract infections, respectively. Signs of microbial colonization, such as a gooey coating with an unpleasant odor, should prompt immediate action.
Furthermore, the material of the water bottle plays a crucial role in bacterial and mould growth. According to Associate Professor Sierin Lim, glass exhibits the slowest colony-forming rate, followed by polypropylene, stainless steel, and polycarbonate. The surface properties of materials like wettability and texture also influence microbial attraction and adhesion.
Image: Michael Hession
Investing in a water bottle made of less porous and textured material, such as glass, coupled with regular and thorough cleaning, can significantly reduce the risk of bacterial and mould contamination. Ultimately, prioritizing bottle hygiene is essential for safeguarding our health, one sip at a time.
