Imagine you’re away from home and forgot your towel, razor, or toothbrush. Should you use someone else’s? Experts say it’s best not to make a habit of it.
Germs Can Stay on Surfaces
Bacteria, viruses, and fungi can live on cloth, plastic, and metal in bathrooms for days, months, or even years. For example, some fungi can survive for over a month, and certain viruses can stay alive on surfaces for hours to months.
1. Towels
Sharing towels can spread skin infections. One study of high-school football players found that players who shared towels were eight times more likely to get a Staph infection, which can cause skin problems and, in rare cases, serious illness. Even washing with soap doesn’t remove all germs, and warm, damp bathrooms help them grow.
2. Toothbrushes
Toothbrushes can carry germs and sometimes cause gums to bleed. Sharing them can spread blood-borne viruses like hepatitis C, herpes (cold sores), and Epstein-Barr virus (glandular fever). Germs on toothbrushes can stay alive for several days.
3. Razors
Razors can also carry germs and blood-borne viruses. Because razors can nick the skin, sharing them can spread warts or other infections.
Who’s at Risk?
People with cuts, weakened immune systems, babies, older adults, or those taking certain medications are more likely to get infections. People with type 2 diabetes are also at higher risk.
Even though the chance of infection is low from a single use, it’s still safest to keep your towel, razor, and toothbrush for yourself. Sharing these items regularly increases the risk of spreading germs
