Office Workstation Germs: Why Are They a Big Problem?

Most building owners don’t realize how many germs are lurking in their workspace—especially on office workstations. Office workstation germs can accumulate quickly, creating health risks and reducing productivity if not properly cleaned.

Did you know that office workstations can harbor more bacteria than toilet seats? It’s a shocking reality that many building owners don’t realize, but your desk, phone, and keyboard may be hotspots for germs that impact your employees’ health and productivity.

The Surprising Truth About Germs in the Office

Recent studies have revealed that office desks can contain up to 400 times more bacteria than the average toilet seat. Here are some noteworthy findings:

• Bacteria Count: The average workspace office desk is estimated to contain 400 times more germs than a toilet seat, meaning that many office workers could be at risk of sickness due to unsanitary desks and office workstation germs.

• Keyboards and Mice: Keyboards and mouse pointers can host up to 4,600 germs per square inch—comparable to or worse than a public toilet.

• Telephone Germs: Telephones rank even higher, with an average of 25,000 germs per square inch, making them one of the dirtiest items in the workplace.

Why It Matters for Your Business

Germ-ridden workstations aren’t just unsightly—they can contribute to frequent employee illnesses, leading to:

• Increased absenteeism.
• Reduced workplace productivity.
• Poor first impressions for clients and visitors.

Regular and thorough cleaning of these common surfaces is crucial for maintaining a healthier environment for your team.

Common Hotspots You Might Be Missing

• Desks and Surfaces: Bacteria accumulate quickly on desktops, particularly in shared spaces.
• Keyboards and mice: frequently touched but rarely cleaned.
• Phones and headsets: high-contact items prone to harboring respiratory germs.
• Personal Items: Bags, cellphones, and water bottles bring outside germs into the workplace.

How to Combat Office Germs

To significantly reduce office workstation germ buildup, workplaces should prioritize routine cleaning and sanitization with professional-grade solutions. Hiring a professional cleaning service ensures all high-touch areas are disinfected with hospital-grade products proven to kill bacteria, viruses, and other contaminants effectively.

For more on why professional cleaning matters, check out this guide from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on maintaining healthier spaces.

Ready to create a healthier, more hygienic workspace for your team?

Contact us today to learn how Sort of Stephanie can help you stay on top of office cleanliness with tailored cleaning solutions.