To reduce your risk, wipe down high-touch surfaces with an antibacterial wipe before use or, for extra protection, seal the remote in a plastic sandwich bag to avoid direct contact with lingering germs.
In fact, one study found that a hotel showerhead had 25,000 times the bacteria of a toilet seat, while shower curtains and bathtubs hold 60 times more bacteria than a toilet seat.
Studies have found that high-touch surfaces like remotes, hotel room phones, and light switches can harbour cold and flu viruses, E. coli, and even traces of faecal matter.
- a bacteria linked to respiratory and gastrointestinal infections - on remotes in three-star hotels, while four- and five-star hotels showed even higher levels of gram-negative bacteria, which are known to cause respiratory illnesses.
Even more concerning, some housekeeping staff use the same cloth to wipe down toilets, sinks, and bathroom counters, increasing the risk of cross-contamination.
