Bacteria from cockroaches was found to be on 70% of smartwatches, shock new research found.
The laboratory study’s findings could make a person’s skin crawl, as Pseudomonas aeruginosa – a bacterium commonly found in cockroach droppings – was found on Apple Watches and Fitbits.
This type of bacteria thrives in warm, moist environments – making a sweat-soaked smartwatch band the perfect breeding ground.
Summer proves to be the worst season for smartwatch hygiene as both temperature and activity levels rise.
From early morning runs, workouts, dining outdoors, and even trips to beaches and festivals, people keep their smartwatch strapped to their wrist.
As well as activity data and sweat, they also pick every particle of dust, and every bit of sunscreen lotion applied.
The research surveyed 575 smartwatch owners – with a staggering 70% admitting to never cleaning their device.
This even included after a sweaty workout and a dip in a swimming pool.
Only 10% said they clean their watches once a year, as reported by Need To Know.
Results were collected thanks to swabs from smartwatches being taken, which were sent to a lab for testing.
For people with eczema, cuts, or weakened immune systems, Pseudomonas aeruginosa can cause infected hair follicles and serious infections.
For healthy individuals, it may only cause mild skin irritation or a rash.
Additionally, the research found that cockroach bacteria could even be contaminating where a person sleeps.
Many people wear their smartwatch to bed, and with not many giving the band a regular clean, there’s a high chance the bacteria is transferring onto pillowcases and bedsheets.
The findings were discovered by bed retailer MattressNextDay in collaboration with a professional laboratory.
“Cleaning your smartwatch regularly should become as automatic as checking your notifications,” said CEO Martin Seeley.
“It’s a simple step that can make a big difference to your skin, your sleep, and your overall health.”
Experts suggest using gentle soap and disinfectant wipes to clean a smartwatch, and that special attention should be paid to the band, clasp, and crevices.
They recommend choosing products suggested by the device manufacturer to avoid damage.
After cleaning, the watch should be dried properly so that no additional bacteria can harvest.
It is ideal to remove the band if possible, and clean both parts individually.
Expects also added that a smartwatch should be cleaned weekly during the summer months, and if you sweat daily.
For smartwatch wearers looking to keep bedding clean, it is recommended to wash pillowcases and sheets at least twice a week to avoid bacterial build-up.
