FOR the first time in the UK, the number of vapers has overtaken smokers. However, vapers are being warned that this habit could come with risks, as doctors warn we could be facing the worst flu season in a decade.

One in six Brits admits to vaping on the toilet, and with vapes often used daily and rarely cleaned, vapes can quickly become germ hotspots.

But just how dirty can vapes get? Eager to raise awareness on the importance of good vape hygiene, the experts at HAYPP partnered with Reynold Mpofu, a Microbiologist from BioLabTests, with a BSc (Hons) in Microbiology, to conduct a study revealing just how dirty vapes can get if they’re not cleaned regularly.

HAYPP’s study found that vape mouthpieces are the area most heavily contaminated with bacteria.

Reynold Mpofu, says: “Laboratory analysis revealed that the mouthpiece is the dirtiest component of the vape. This isn’t surprising given that the human mouth, largely considered to be one of the ‘dirtiest’ parts of the body, harbours approximately 700 species of bacteria, that amounts to billions of individual bacteria.

The absence of protective coverings on most vape mouthpieces, coupled with residual heat and moisture provide the optimal conditions for microbial colonisation. Environmental microbes from pockets, bags, and other everyday surfaces create an ideal breeding ground for microbial accumulation on the mouthpiece.”

The lab findings ranged from everyday skin microbes to more concerning gut bacteria like E. coli. Yeast and mould growth were also identified, highlighting how the warm, moist environment of a vape mouthpiece can quickly become a breeding ground for germs if not cleaned regularly.

While the mouthpiece showed the highest levels of contamination, the body of the vape also harboured significant bacterial and fungal growth.

The lab observed rapid microbial growth between just 2 to 3 days of use, with colonies multiplying thousands of times over. Many of these are commonly found on human skin or in the surrounding environment, but the presence of intestinal bacteria like E. coli and Enterococcus again points to possible transfer from unwashed hands or surfaces.

Discussing the findings with HAYPP, Mpofu said:

“Much like phones, vapes are frequently handled and placed on a variety of surfaces, allowing germs, oils, and dirt from hands, pockets and various environments to latch on the device. The findings confirmed the presence of bacteria, including E. coli and Enterococcus, on the vape body, likely arising from inadequate hand hygiene or the transfer of microorganisms from bathroom environments or other contaminated surfaces.

Paired with routine contact with faces, mouths, toilets, door handles, other people, and even floors, this provides the perfect opportunity for microbes to transfer to the vape. This evidence highlights the critical importance of regular cleaning and exceptional hygiene for vape devices. Every touch, surface and puff adds up, and maintaining a clean mouthpiece and device is not just about aesthetics, it’s a matter of health and hygiene.”

Species identified:

Markus Lindblad, Head of Legal and External Affairs, on behalf of HAYPP, shared some advice on how to practice vape hygiene:

“For the first time, there are now more vapers than smokers in the UK, and this is a positive milestone for public health. However, as more people switch to reusable vapes, it’s important that they learn good vape hygiene. Our study shows just how quickly bacteria can build up on a vape - even forming sticky, biofilm-like layers that aren’t easy to remove with a quick wipe on your sleeve, for example.

“This is particularly important for the newer non-disposable models, as well as existing devices that are used over more extended periods and can remain contaminated if not cleaned regularly. Just as we wash our hands when we get home, it’s a good idea to give your vape a similar once-over, depending on how frequently it’s used.

We recommend wiping down both the mouthpiece and body every three days with a cloth dampened in antibacterial cleaner or using an alcohol wipe. Most advice online recommends once a week; however, our research shows this is far too long between cleans. For vapes with interchangeable pieces, these should be removed and cleaned individually to ensure no bacteria or residue is left behind.”