Staphylococcus aureus recovery from cotton towels

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• Staphylococcus aureus is an emerging pathogen causing infections in healthy individuals.
• Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) can colonize multiple household members.
• Shared household items like towels may contribute to bacterial transmission within families.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of cotton towel absorbency and washing conditions on Staphylococcus aureus viability and retention.
• To determine if bacterial levels on towels are sufficient for person-to-person transmission.

Main Methods:

• Staphylococcus aureus was applied to three cotton towel types (terry, pima, Egyptian).
• Towels were washed with water only, bleach, or liquid detergent.
• Bacterial quantification was performed on towel surfaces and via hand transfer at multiple time points.

Main Results:

• Bleach significantly reduced bacterial viability on all towel types compared to detergent and water.
• Higher absorbency towels showed a trend towards higher bacterial recovery.
• Significant bacterial presence for hand transfer was observed up to 48 hours post-inoculation.

Conclusions:

• Staphylococcus aureus remains viable on towels for over 48 hours, with potential for colonization.
• Absorbent towels may harbor increased bacterial loads, acting as a transmission route.
• Washing with bleach is most effective in reducing bacterial viability on towels.