A new study shows that whirlpool bathtubs are a breeding ground for bacteria. More than 40 samples were tested from both private and hotel whirlpool tubs, and each one exhibited some amount of microbial growth.
Fecal Bacteria in 95 Percent
The researchers found that:
- Feces-derived bacteria were present in 95 percent of the tubs
- Fungi were present in 81 percent
- Staphylococcus bacteria were present in 34 percent
Two Million Bacteria
A teaspoon of normal tap water generally contains about 138 bacteria. A teaspoon of whirlpool tub water, however, contains more than 2 million bacteria.
A Host of Diseases
The bacteria found in the samples can lead to many diseases, such as urinary tract infections, skin infections, and pneumonia.