Contamination Accelerates with Sugary or Protein Drinks
"Rinsing Alone Is Useless... Soap and Warm Cleaning Are Essential"
There have been repeated warnings that even if you only drink water from reusable bottles such as tumblers, inadequate cleaning can expose you to various illnesses.
The Associated Press recently introduced reasons why water bottles should be cleaned regularly and provided tips for reducing contamination. According to the report, water bottles are easily contaminated because your mouth and hands come into frequent contact with them during use. If not cleaned properly, they can become a breeding ground for mold and various microorganisms.
The difference depending on the material was not significant. Most materials, including metal, glass, and plastic, allow microorganisms to grow. In particular, plastic is prone to scratches, making it more likely for bacteria to settle. Experts warn that using contaminated water bottles can cause a range of symptoms, including abdominal pain, respiratory irritation, and worsening allergies.
Customers are selecting tumblers at a franchise coffee shop (photo for illustrative purposes and unrelated to the article content). Photo by Hyunmin Kim kimhyun81@
These concerns have been supported by recent research findings. A research team at Purdue University collected 90 water bottles used by college students and found that the exterior was so contaminated that it failed the bacterial contamination test (ATP), and many of the interiors exceeded the safety standard of 100-500 CFU/mL. In one out of every four bottles, E. coli was detected, indicating the possibility of fecal contamination.
Experts point out that "there are 500 to 600 types of bacteria in the mouth, which enter the bottle every time you drink," and that if you do not wash your hands frequently, fecal bacteria such as E. coli can also be transferred. Sharing water bottles with others increases the risk of spreading infectious diseases such as norovirus.
Separating and cleaning straws and gaskets is essential... Replace immediately if there is an odor
Problems with cleaning habits were also revealed. It was common for people to simply rinse with water or wash bottles without separating the straws and gaskets. Using the bottle immediately without drying or closing the lid right away was also identified as a cause of contamination. The research team emphasized, "Basic care, such as scrubbing with hot water and detergent as you would a dish, is necessary," and warned, "If you do not dry the bottle completely, bacteria will multiply quickly."
The basic method for reusable bottles is to scrub the inside and outside with warm soapy water, separate and clean small parts such as straws and gaskets, and dry everything thoroughly. Using vinegar or baking soda can enhance the disinfecting effect, and it is especially important to clean immediately after storing sweet drinks or protein shakes. Experts recommend "basic cleaning every day and a thorough cleaning once a week."
Opinions are divided on whether it is safe to leave water in a bottle for extended periods. Some experts advise discarding any remaining water each time you refill, while others recommend emptying the bottle every few hours. Dr. Mike Ren of Baylor College of Medicine said, "Leaving a little water overnight is not a problem, but water left for several days must be discarded."
If mold or a foul odor is detected, use should be stopped immediately. There is also advice to avoid repeatedly reusing single-use plastic bottles, as they carry a risk of chemical leaching.
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