For many of us, the shower is a sanctuary—a place to cleanse, unwind, and perhaps even catch up on some thinking. But what if I told you that a habit many of us have adopted could be turning our showers from a haven of relaxation into a potential health hazard? It’s time to talk about a modern trend that’s not only unhygienic but could also be downright dangerous.
In today’s digital age, it’s no surprise that our smartphones have become almost like an extension of ourselves. They keep us connected, entertained, and informed. However, the allure of scrolling through social media or listening to music has led many Australians to take their devices into the shower with them. While this may seem harmless, especially with the advent of water-repellent technology and showerproof accessories, it’s a practice that comes with risks.
A recent viral video has sparked a conversation about the dangers lurking behind our phone screens—quite literally. Andi, a social media user, shared her alarming discovery of black mould speckling the inside of her silicone phone case after routinely bringing her phone into the shower. The video, which has garnered nearly a quarter of a million views, serves as a stark reminder of the unseen threats that can grow in the warm, moist environments we create in our bathrooms.
NSW Health cautions that while mould is generally harmless, it can pose significant health risks. Mould, a type of fungus that thrives in damp conditions, can be found almost everywhere. Certain types, like Stachybotrys chartarum commonly known as black mould, can be particularly harmful. Exposure to toxic mould can lead to respiratory issues, worsen asthma symptoms, and even cause fungal infections.
To combat this, it’s crucial to maintain low humidity levels in your bathroom, ensure proper ventilation, and regularly clean and dry your phone and its accessories. Apple, for instance, advises users to clean their iPhones with a 70 per cent isopropyl alcohol wipe if they come into contact with potentially damaging substances — for example, dirt or sand, ink, make-up, soap, detergent, acids or acidic foods, or lotions. However, it’s best to avoid bringing your phone into the shower altogether to prevent any moisture from seeping into places it shouldn’t.
The reaction to Andi’s video was a mix of shock and recognition, with many viewers sharing their own mouldy discoveries. Some suggested that the problem might not be the phone case itself but rather poor bathroom ventilation or a lack of regular cleaning. Regardless of the cause, it’s clear that this issue is more widespread than we might think.
Data from online optical retailer clearly.com.au indicated that in 2019, 40 per cent of Australians used their phones in the bathroom. Given our increasing reliance on technology, it’s likely that this figure has risen. This statistic is a wake-up call to reconsider our bathroom habits for the sake of our health.
Have you ever discovered mould on your phone case? Got any tricks for keeping your bathroom mould-free? Drop your thoughts and tips in the comments – let’s help each other stay safe and healthy!
