If you have a mobile phone that hasn't had a good deep clean in a while, this new research might encourage you to do so now.
In a grim discovery, tech trading company SellCell had 20 phones swabbed and sent off to labs — and every single one of them contained bacteria found in human faeces.
Disturbingly, E.coli - a bacteria found in human faecal matter that's often responsible for diarrhoea and vomiting - was found on every sample. The screens were also found to harbour other forms of bacteria, including one known for causing pneumonia - and another found in cockroach faeces.
Commenting on the research, Sarah McConomy, COO of SellCell.com said: "We were interested to find out just how common harmful bacteria is on our mobile phone screens, and what types of bacteria are the most common.
"The results were truly shocking, with many forms of bacteria originating from human faeces, which really highlights a need for people to thoroughly clean and sanitise their cell phones more often."
All of the devices also contained Bacillus cereus, responsible for intense food poisoning, and S. aureus – a cause of pneumonia. And some 50 percent of phone screens contained bacteria P. aeruginosa – commonly found in cockroach faeces.
Sarah continued: "What was perhaps the most disturbing to see was the presence of P. aeruginosa, a bacteria that comes directly from cockroaches and their faeces."
The tech trading firm has shared three tips to help people make sure that their phones remain clean and free of any unpleasant bacteria.
Three tips for a more hygienic phone
- Avoid taking your smartphone into the bathroom: It's how they can get exposed to airborne bacteria like E.coli in the first place.
- Clean phone case every two weeks to remove hidden dirt: Crevices including the charging port, side buttons and microphone can accumulate dirt and bacteria.
- Use 70 percent isopropyl alcohol wipes once a week: Turn your device off and deep-clean it regularly. Never use bleach or other household cleaning products.
Sarah concluded: "We would recommend people disinfect their phones and all smart devices regularly."
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