Moorpark College students are doing their part for the environment by drinking from reusable water bottles; however, not cleaning those bottles and storying them properly can do more harm than good.

“When the fluids are poured directly into the mouth, any microorganism in the mouth gets into the remaining fluid,” said Moorpark College Health Educator Allison Barton. “If the fluid then stands for several hours, especially at room temperature, the result is a very germy concoction indeed.”

The bacteria in student’s reusable water bottles may not only have them darting to the restroom, but also placing them at risk of contracting a variety of bacteria that could bring harm to them.

Bacteria has a role in everyday life where usually bacteria and bodies live in harmony. However, some bacteria can inflict mayhem on the digestive system. These tiny bugs find lush breeding grounds bringing forth bacteria such as salmonella, shigella, and Escherichia coli, which are spread by drinking unhygienic water.

The bacteria in reusable bottle can also spread the flu. However, an even more threatening bacteria known as Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, or MRSA, could be contracted, which if gone untreated can cause life-threatening results. The antibiotic resistant MRSA is projected to kill more Americans than AIDS, and has the ability to live in reusable bottle.

People think if they are the only ones using the water bottle, then at least it would only be their germs in the bottle. However, the real culprit comes from hands. All day long people exchange germs with others through common use of items or simply by shaking hands.

“I had no idea that these bottles could potentially cause such health problems,” said 22-year-old Aspen Elementary School teacher Kendra Gray. “I will be much more careful about how I handle and clean my water bottle.”

The cleaning of the bottle is equally as important as washing hands. Since water bottles tend to have narrow necks, placing them in the dishwasher does not thoroughly clean them. Additionally, the dishwasher causes the plastic to breakdown or crack, usually unseen, which just gives another place for bacteria to grow. The bottle must be washed in hot, soapy water and scrubbed with a brush along the sides and the cap. Air-drying is key to ensure that the bottle is sanitized completely, and refrigerating the bottle between uses is also recommended.

Choosing the right type of bottle is equally important. As people become more germ-conscious, picking the right bottle is vital along with knowing its life expectancy. Wide-necked, reusable bottles are recommended, as they are easier to wash between uses. Additionally, an important thing to be aware of is that most reusable bottles are meant for only two to three months of usage.

“Moorpark College students could, alternatively, consider using drinking fountains all over campus,” said Barton. “ They provide safe, clean water with no waste.”

Students at Moorpark College are doing their part to become more economically and environmentally conscious by using reusable water bottles. However, they need to take the proper steps to ensure that same bottle does not become a bacterial time bomb.