Warning over kids' toy with 'twice as many germs as a toilet seat' and how to clean it

A new study has found that some of your children's favourite toys can be riddled with bacteria and germs

A new study has found that some of your children's favourite toys can be riddled with bacteria and germs.

The research, conducted by MattressNextDay, saw scientists swab and compare common household items and children's toys and blankets using an ATP (adenosine triphosphate) bioluminescence test, typically used in sanitation and food safety, to determine cleanliness.

The results were mixed, with some items, like the bin lid, being relatively clean, while others, like the teddy bear, tested positive for a high level of microbial contamination.

The research team discovered that teddy bears could potentially be the dirtiest object in your home, with the average teddy bear swabbed having over six times more dirt than a bin lid and being 229% dirtier than a toilet seat. Comfort blankets were found to be 554% dirtier than a bin lid and 195% dirtier than a toilet seat.

Dr Snieguole Geige, a Medical Doctor at the It's Me And You Clinic, explained that these findings are due to a lack of washing.

She said: “I cannot overstate the hidden dangers of neglecting to wash blankets and teddy bears. These seemingly innocent items are perfect breeding grounds for bacteria, fungi, and allergens, and these sorts of tests show just how easily these items can accumulate a shocking amount of microbial contamination that often goes unnoticed.

“An analysis of the dirt found on children's teddies and blankets revealed that some were harboring microbiomes including Staphylococcus aureus (which can cause skin infections) and E. coli (which can cause stomach upsets).

“Pathogens like these thrive in warm, humid environments, and that's exactly what teddy bears and blankets provide. The accumulation of dust mites and mold on unwashed plush items can also trigger allergic reactions and exacerbate asthma, hence why cleaning these items should be a priority to safeguard our children's health.

"The team at MattressNextDay advise washing your child's favourite toy or comfort blanket at least once a month at 60 degrees to kill off any mites and bacteria. They also recommend washing these items if your child has been ill and cuddling them. However, do check the washing instructions first – a shrunken blanket or teddy will not go down well."