Handbags are likely to contain as much bacteria, including E. coli, found in a toilet bowl, a new study revealed, Yahoo! Shine reported Wednesday.
A recent U.K study backs up a previous research that discovered the number of bacteria found on purse handles is up to par with those found in a toilet bowl.
The study revealed that about a third of the people they surveyed said they never clean their briefcases, purses, or gym bags, adding that 100 percent of bag swabs collected and tested were contaminated with dangerous microorganisms including E. coli, which causes severe diarrhea and vomiting, and fecal streptococci, associated with bacterial meningitis and pneumonia.
Meanwhile, other studies pointed out that bacteria present in handbags can cause skin infections while viruses present can lead to cold and flu.
"I don't want to make people paranoid, but yes, purses are dirty," assistant professor of clinical laboratory science at St. Louis University Donna Duberg told Yahoo Shine.
Duberg added that the handles and bottoms of handbags are the most common or the hot spots for thriving bacteria and viruses. She said that the handles get touched all the time while the bottoms are placed atop dirty floors and surfaces, which then lead to contamination.
Donna also noted that when these bags are placed on kitchen countertops or tables, they could contaminate food as well, adding that it takes three days before the illness caused by the microorganisms is manifested; thus, pinpointing where the infection stemmed from becomes difficult.
Duberg mentioned that germs also lurk inside bags, after they are introduced by items women put on them such as keys, makeup cases, and cell phones.
"Nobody wipes off their cell phone, and most people take them everywhere, including the bathroom," Duberg said, adding that common contaminants are used tissues and shoes.
Duberg presented several tips on how people can maintain clean handbags for them to avoid getting sick.
Consider the material of the handbag prior to making a purchase. Note whether it is easy to clean or not. Duberg said, "If you have children and carry around snacks and toys in a bag, you want to be able to throw it in the washing machine."
Disinfect bag regularly using wipes. Disinfecting wipes should be left for 30 seconds to ensure that 99 percent of bacteria and viruses have been killed. Following which rinse the bag using a damp cloth.
Clean bag contents including cell phone and makeup containers using alcohol or disinfecting wipes. Duberg shared that she washes her keys with soap and water weekly and frequently during flu or cold season.
Put food in zip-top plastic bag before placing it inside the bag. This will keep the bag from being contaminated by germs.
Finally, wash hands frequently, and avoid touching the eyes, nose, and mouth to "break the cycle of infection," Duberg said.
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