Don't Let Dirty Dishes Pile Up—Your Health Might Depend On It

Ever wondered why some people are adamant about leaving a clean sink before hitting the sack, or prefer an empty sink throughout most of the day? Well, they might be onto something important. Recent studies suggest that a sink filled with dishes could jeopardize your health.

According to these studies, if you've been experiencing a stubborn cough or cold, or unexpected ear infections, there's likely a good reason. "Drains can clog with gunk, which can harm your plumbing, but also make you feel unwell," explains a health expert for Bristol Live. The site mentioned a University of East Anglia study that labeled sinks as "alarming reservoirs for bacteria that can spread diseases."

Experts point to the accumulation of hair and dirt in drains, which produces a bacteria-laden biofilm. This biofilm not only smells bad but is also a dangerous substance that can lead to infections like listeria and salmonella. Research shows that sinks acting as catchalls for food scraps can pose health issues, especially with raw meat. Microbiologist Kelly Reynolds recently noted that "this biofilm might even contaminate your food or dishes."

Experts also warn that bathroom sinks and showers can harbor bacteria. For instance, sulfates from products like shampoo, silicone from gel, or conditioner and other toiletries can mix with grime and cause blockages.

So, what can you do about it? First, it’s recommended to hand-clean the sink or swiftly transfer dishes to the dishwasher. You can use baking soda to scrub the sink and be sure to disinfect the faucet handles and the surrounding area. Once the sink fills up with food residue, empty it immediately into the trash—otherwise, bacteria can accumulate and bring with them illness.