We don’t often think about how clean our computer keyboard is, but it turns out that it is covered in bacteria. In fact, a recent study found that the average keyboard is 20,000 times dirtier than a toilet seat! Hence, a professional office cleaning company can help improve air quality, reduce the number of airborne pollutants, and spread germs.
The CBT Nugget’s research team found some grim results when swabbing typical office items for bacteria. Their findings showed that an electronic ID badge was the dirtiest item, with 243 times more bacteria than a germ-filled pet toy. Keyboards were in second place, followed by mobile phones, a computer mouse and, finally, a trackpad – which had 162 times more bacteria than money. Yuck!
But it’s not all bad news – the team also found that regular cleaning can make a big difference. For example, they found that a keyboard that had been cleaned with antibacterial wipes had just 1% of the bacteria of an uncleaned keyboard. So there’s hope yet for our germ-ridden offices!
If you like to keep your keyboard nice and clean, you also need to think of reasons why keyboards can become so contaminated in the first place. First of all, we tend to touch our face and eyes more often when we are using a computer, which can transfer bacteria from our hands to the keyboard. Secondly, keyboards are often located in busy areas, adding to the build-up of dirt and grime.
Cleaning your office thoroughly leads to better air quality in the workplace. And many studies have shown that air quality is directly linked to productivity. By keeping your office spick and span you’ll be boosting everyone’s energy levels and getting more from your staff.
So how can you keep your keyboard clean?
Clean your keyboard regularly with antibacterial wipes
It’s essential to clean your keyboard regularly with antibacterial wipes to reduce the number of bacteria on it. This will help keep your keyboard germ-free and improve your overall hygiene.
Avoid eating at your computer
Try to avoid eating at your computer, as this can add to the build-up of dirt and grime on your keyboard. If you do need to eat, be sure to wash your hands thoroughly afterwards.
Keep your hands clean
Wash your hands regularly, especially before you start using your computer. This will help reduce the number of bacteria that you transfer to your keyboard.
Use compressed air to clean between the keys
Use compressed air to clean between the keys on your keyboard. This will help remove any dirt or debris that has become trapped in the keyboard.
Avoid sharing your keyboard
Try to avoid sharing your keyboard with others, as this can increase the risk of transferring bacteria. If you do need to share, be sure to clean the keyboard afterwards.
Key Takeaway
By following these simple tips, you can help keep your keyboard clean and free of bacteria. So next time you’re at your computer, take a moment to think about how clean your keyboard really is!
Office workers can spend 40 hours or more per week in their workspace, so you owe it to your staff to let them work in a pleasant and safe working environment. An unclean office is a breeding ground for ill health.
Studies have revealed that a keyboard can be home to more bacteria than a toilet seat! Germs, bugs and viruses, such as colds and flu, spread more quickly in a dirty environment, meaning that more of your staff will be susceptible to falling ill.
Consequently, more illness in the office leads to more sick days being taken. So, by keeping your office clean and tidy, you’ll be looking after your employees’ health and reducing the number of days taken off due to illness.
If you manage a bigger office space with hundreds of computers and keyboards, it is vital to have a regular cleaning schedule for all common surfaces, including IT equipment and not just keyboards. You can learn more about our office cleaning services by contacting us.
