A new study has revealed alarming levels of bacteria lurking in British pubs, particularly on carpets, with nearly 2,000 colonies found thriving underfoot. Flooring Hut, a specialist in flooring solutions, conducted swab tests in five UK pubs, shedding light on the microbial world thriving on carpets and wooden flooring.

The findings are eye-opening: pub carpets harbour an average of 1,643 bacteria colonies, while wooden floors average 1,060 colonies. For comparison, a public toilet seat has just 425 colonies, making pub carpets nearly four times dirtier. In extreme cases, some carpets showed as many as 3,000 colonies.

Paul Brewster, CEO and carpet specialist at Flooring Hut, described these results as a wake-up call for pub owners. “Regular deep cleaning and proper maintenance are crucial to creating a safer and more hygienic environment,” he advised.

Pubs’ dirtiest secrets revealed

The study showed that bar and dining areas, where food and drink spills are common, are breeding grounds for bacteria. Even wood floors – while slightly cleaner – still present significant risks. Floors in pub toilets proved to be the dirtiest, averaging 2,194 colonies, five times more than a public toilet seat.

The bacteria identified include Gram-positive cocci, rod-shaped bacteria, and even mould, particularly in damp or high-traffic areas.

• Gram-positive cocci. Found in nearly every swab, these bacteria are linked to human activity, such as skin shedding, and include species like Staphylococcus, which can cause infections.
• Rod-shaped bacteria. Common environmental species like Bacillus were found in all samples. While generally harmless, they can pose health risks if they enter the body.
• Mould. Damp conditions and spills create ideal conditions for mould growth, which was found in carpets and on some wooden floors.

Flooring solutions for safer pubs

To combat bacterial buildup, Brewster recommended daily vacuuming, immediate cleaning of spills, and professional deep cleans every six to twelve months. He also suggested using antimicrobial treatments and managing indoor humidity to prevent mould growth.

For pub owners seeking more hygienic flooring options, Brewster outlined several durable alternatives:

• Luxury vinyl tile (LVT). Water-resistant and simple to clean, it mimics the look of wood or stone.
• Epoxy flooring. Non-porous and easy to maintain, ideal for high-traffic areas.
• Rubber flooring. Slip-resistant and sound-absorbing, suitable for areas prone to spills.
• Tile or stone. Hygienic and low-maintenance, perfect for dining areas.