A new study has brought to light surprising information about the cleanliness of vapes, comparing them to public toilets.
While vapes are often used as a smoking alternative, their hygiene has come into question. Many Americans opt for vaping as a healthier substitute to traditional cigarettes. Although vaping is not without its health risks, it is still used by millions as a method to quit smoking.
However, despite being seen as a less harmful alternative, some research indicates that vaping can be as detrimental as smoking tobacco.
In an unexpected twist, recent research has found that vape devices can be over 2,000 times dirtier than a toilet seat. In other words, it might be more hygienic to interact with a toilet than to use a vape.
The study was conducted by experts at HAYPP alongside a leading UK microbiologist. Their findings were based on two weeks of research.
A refillable pod-style vape, consisting of a reusable body and detachable mouthpiece, was utilized in the study. Scientists took swabs at various intervals, which were then cultured and analyzed for yeast, mold, and specific bacterial species in a lab setting.
The aim was to replicate the real-world use of these reusable vapes and pod systems and to understand how residue and bacteria can accumulate on them.
The research revealed that the mouthpiece of vapes is a significant breeding ground for bacteria due to its warm, moist environment.
Just three days into the research, the team discovered that the level of bacteria and fungi on vapes was 2,300 times greater than on a toilet seat.
Reynold Mpofu, a microbiologist from BioTest Labs, emphasized the importance of maintaining regular cleaning and exceptional hygiene for vape devices. “Laboratory analysis revealed that the mouthpiece is the dirtiest component of the vape. This isn’t surprising given that the human mouth, largely considered to be one of the ‘dirtiest’ parts of the body, harbors approximately 700 species of bacteria, amounting to billions of individual bacteria.”
He noted that the lack of protective coverings on most vape mouthpieces, combined with residual heat and moisture, creates an ideal environment for microbial growth.
This study underscores the necessity of rigorous cleaning and maintaining high hygiene standards when using vape devices.