New research has found that television remotes are covered in bacteria, and often more contaminated than a toilet seat, kitchen sink or even pet food bowl
Your TV remote is dirtier than your toilet and tests show most are contaminated with poo, a study found.
We should already be on high alert, as the UK has been warned a “highly contagious” virus is spreading across Europe. However Brits have also been advised they can improve their health by going “back to basics” with their food.
Scientists discovered faecal bacteria on 100% of channel changers from a study of the gadgets in shared living spaces.
A team from the University of Arizona also found E. coli and other harmful bacteria colonies living on hoofer-doofers. Separate research by the University of Houston found telly zappers were among the filthiest objects in hotel rooms.
Guests had left faecal bacteria and harmful pathogens on the clickers, which don’t tend to be routinely cleaned like other hotel items.
Cold and flu viruses can survive on plastic objects like TV flickers for up to 48 hours, found the Journal of Applied Microbiology.
Growths and funguses such as mould and mildew can also get trapped in crevices between the buttons, leading to allergy and breathing problems.
While health experts also pointed to the risk of salmonella and listeria as folk often gobble food while channel flicking.
The report, commissioned by Plumbworld, said: “Your TV remote is one of the most used items in your home, yet it’s likely one of the least cleaned.
“Failing to disinfect your controller could be exposing you to harmful bacteria, viruses and even mould. Your remote could be dirtier than a toilet seat.”
It added: “We touch remotes while eating, after coming home from outside and even while sick, but how often do we clean them?
“Research shows that these small devices harbour more bacteria than a toilet seat, kitchen sink or even a pet’s food bowl.”
Telly owners should remove their remote’s batteries, shake out any hidden dirt, disinfect the device, clean between the buttons, then let the gizmo dry completely before use.
A spokesman said: “Most people wash their hands after using the toilet but don’t think twice about touching a remote that could be covered in faecal bacteria.
“Cleaning your remote regularly is one of the simplest ways to prevent illness and maintain a healthier home.”
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