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Dr Gérald Kierzek (Medical Director of Doctissimo)
Soon to leave? But when it’s time to pack your suitcases, do you know that they, rarely cleaned, also carry a lot of germs? Should we wash them or even… replace them? Dr Gérald Kierzek tells us more.
This summer, your suitcases will once again follow you to your vacation spots. But they will not only bring back your memories: according to information revealed by The Parisianthis rarely cleaned accessory accumulates dust, dirt and germs over the years.
Microbes that travel with us
The idea is not new: in the Washington Posta microbiologist Jason Tetro already recalled that baggage, “transfer vector for pathogens”, can “transmit infections.” And indeed, a study published in the journal Science in 2019, already highlighted the risk of dissemination of microorganisms taken out of their natural environment.
“Each tourist thus carries in their intestines, on their skin and their belongings (their suitcases, bags and clothes, etc.) phenomenal quantities of microbes which colonize distant destinations. These exchanges increase the resistance capacity of microorganisms and accelerate the speed spread of infectious diseases” explains Dr. Kierzek, medical director of Doctissimo.
Can you sanitize your suitcase?
Of course, the image of suddenly traveling with a transportable nest of germs at arm’s length is immediately less glamorous when you are going to a dream destination. But how do you clean this accessory and can you sanitize it?
Yes, according to Dr Kierzek who gives his little advice:
- “The luggage handle should be cleaned as a priority because it’s the only thing everyone touches”. The same goes for the zipper, which you can clean with a cloth and disinfectant, an antibacterial wipe, or a cloth with a mixture of water and dish soap;
- Inside, a vacuum cleaner may be enough in the bottom of the bag if objects such as shoes have been packed in plastic bags. Measures which also have the advantage of extending the life of the luggage;
- Also note, backpacks are often in direct contact with the ground or various surfaces, they can accumulate microbes. The same goes for strollers and baby seats: this equipment is frequently handled and placed on different surfaces.
Finally, even if it means keeping our luggage safe, our expert reminds us of a tip
“Avoid placing your luggage on the bed upon arrival to prevent contamination by Bedbugs“.
No need to become manic though
If it is useful to be aware of the germs carried and to adopt some good actions, the doctor affirms, it is also not necessary to spend your time washing your luggage. For what ? “Because too much hygiene kills hygiene” confirms the one who aims for common sense. It is true that a completely sterilized environment is undesirable for human health, for several reasons.
- The development of immune system : our immune system needs to be exposed to various microorganisms to develop properly. Without this exposure, it can become hypersensitive or ineffective against pathogens.
- A microbiome beneficial: our body is naturally home to billions of beneficial microorganisms, particularly in our intestine. An environment that is too sterile could disrupt this microbial balance essential to our health.
- A risk of allergies and autoimmune diseases : The hygiene hypothesis suggests that insufficient exposure to microorganisms during childhood may increase the risk of developing allergies and autoimmune diseases later in life.
- A antibiotic resistance : An environment that is too sterile can encourage the proliferation of antibiotic-resistant bacteria because sensitive bacteria are eliminated, making way for resistant strains.
- Ecological balance: Microorganisms play a crucial role in many ecological processes. Their complete elimination would disrupt this balance.
- A practical impossibility: it is virtually impossible to maintain a completely sterile environment outside of highly controlled laboratory conditions.
“Hygiene remains important to prevent the spread of disease, but there needs to be a balance. Reasonable hygiene, such as wash one’s hands regularly is beneficial, but excessive sterilization of our environment can have harmful effects on our health in the long term.
In short, take care of your belongings, give it a clean between two trips… then enjoy your vacation.
Slide: Microbe nests: learn how to flush them out!