Laboratory experiments have shown that the "mouthpiece" in e-cigarettes, due to its warm and humid environment, becomes a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi if it is not cleaned regularly.
Reynold Mbovo, a microbiologist at BioLabTests in Coventry, Britain, confirmed that "every touch or puff on the device adds to the amount of germs that accumulate."
He added: "These results illustrate the importance of regular cleaning and maintaining high hygiene standards for e-cigarette devices."
The BioLabTests team collaborated with Haypp, an online nicotine retailer, to conduct tests on a Strawberry Frosted e-cigarette (Lost Mary). Samples were taken from the device upon opening, and then after 24, 48, and 72 hours, as well as after one and two weeks of use.
The results showed rapid microbial growth between the second and third days, with bacterial and fungal colonies multiplying thousands of times. By the third day, the mouthpiece had approximately 150,000 colony-forming units (CFU), three thousand times more than the bacteria found on a typical public toilet seat.
Mbofo confirmed that the mouthpiece is the most contaminated part of the device, which is to be expected given that the human mouth contains approximately 700 different types of bacteria. Microbial colonies were also observed on the device itself, including bacteria commonly found on skin and in dust, as well as E. coli associated with contaminated environments.
Researchers believe that sticky biofilms form on the surfaces of e-cigarette devices, making them more difficult to clean and more susceptible to the transfer of germs from hands, pockets, and various surfaces.
Experts recommend regularly wiping e-cigarettes with wipes or cloths moistened with an antibacterial disinfectant, focusing on the mouthpiece and the body of the device.
Marcus Lindblad of Haypp said: "We recommend cleaning every three days, not once a week, to ensure that germ buildup is minimized. Interchangeable parts should also be removed and cleaned separately."
Although e-cigarettes contain fewer toxic chemicals than traditional cigarettes, they typically contain nicotine, which is addictive and increases the risk of heart disease over time. The World Health Organization also warns of their harmful effects on the brains of adolescents and unborn children.
