CHARLOTTE, N.C. — In recent years, many people have opted for reusable water bottles to reduce waste, but could your favorite bottle make you sick?
A lot of folks use reusable water bottles but when was the last time you washed it and how often should you wash a bottle that you use every day?
THE QUESTION
Can your reusable water bottle make you sick?
THE ANSWER
Yes, reusable water bottles can make you sick if you do not wash them.
OUR SOURCES
WHAT WE FOUND
With the growing popularity of reusable water bottles, doctors say there's a danger you really can't see.
"Everything that touches that water bottle can transmit bacteria," Sumego said.
The bacteria is mostly from us, too. According to the Baylor College of Medicine, bacteria in a person's mouth can get into a water bottle. This includes food particles that can create a perfect environment for mold.
"They really thrive in moist and dark environments and can develop quickly in the water bottle," Robinson said.
She explained that you can't see the growing germs and they could potentially cause symptoms similar to food poisoning. People with allergies could also suffer a flare-up if mold starts growing inside their water bottles.
So how often should you clean it?
"Your water bottle is one of the most important things you need to clean daily," Robinson shared.
To avoid the build-up of germs and mold, Sumego says you should make sure you thoroughly clean every component of the bottle. If you have a multi-piece cap and straw, take them apart and wash them completely.
"We are lifting up straws, twisting off caps, all those areas," Sumego said. "If they're not removed and washed at the same time, they can harbor bacteria and mold that grows underneath."
Contact Meghan Bragg at mbragg@wcnc.com and follow her on Facebook, X and Instagram.
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