Amazon Driver Warns Against Placing Packages on Beds or Counters: Here’s Why
The excitement of receiving an Amazon package is universal, but one Amazon delivery driver, Alex (@aayyeelex), has issued a cautionary reminder that could change how you handle your deliveries. In a now-viral TikTok video, Alex revealed just how much grime and dirt delivery drivers encounter daily, warning against placing packages on beds, pillows, or countertops.
“It’s Gross,” Says Driver
Alex demonstrated the issue by showing their hand, which appeared dirty even after multiple washes. “This is about 20 to 25 stops,” they explained, emphasizing how drivers handle hundreds of packages daily, often accumulating dirt, germs, and dust along the way.
With over 275,000 Amazon drivers delivering millions of packages every day, the likelihood of grime transferring from drivers’ hands to your package is significant. Alex’s advice struck a chord, prompting many on TikTok to share their own strategies for maintaining cleanliness when handling deliveries.
Safety Tips for Handling Packages
Digital journalist Kim Komando offered practical tips to minimize exposure to germs from packages:
- Use Gloves: Wear gloves when handling deliveries.
- Quarantine the Package: If possible, leave cardboard packages in a secure outdoor spot, like a patio or balcony, for 24 hours. For plastic packages, extend this to three days.
- Dispose of Gloves Properly: After handling, remove and dispose of gloves immediately.
- Wash Your Hands: Always wash hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and warm water after touching packages.
Community Reactions and Hacks
Alex’s video sparked discussions among viewers, with many sharing their methods to keep packages clean:
- One user, @mysystemnightmare, said they use a dedicated bin to store packages, keeping them off furniture and countertops entirely.
- Other delivery drivers supported Alex’s claims. One commented that their hands would turn “almost black” after a day’s work, while another described how packages are often thrown on the ground or used as seating.
The issue isn’t limited to delivery drivers. Librarians and bank cashiers also chimed in, noting similar experiences with dirt accumulation from handling books and money daily.
Takeaways
While the risk of contamination may not be high, Alex’s video underscores the importance of hygiene and awareness in our interactions with everyday items. By adopting simple precautions, such as quarantining packages or regularly washing hands, we can ensure our homes stay cleaner and safer.
