Germs are everywhere, and they may even be lurking in some places and on some items, that you might not think of as being dirty. However, when you think how often these items are handled, what they may contain and where we take them, it should come as no surprise that they are harbouring potentially harmful germs and bacteria.
Here are 6 of the top items that have been scientifically proven to harbour a whole host of icky germs:
- Purses and other hand held bags:
These items go all over the place with us, and we put them down in many different places that are dirty, such as on the floor of a café or restaurant, hanging from a hook in the restroom or perched on top of all manner of surfaces for convenience. Any bags that can be popped into the washing machine, should go in at least once a month, and for leather or plastic items, they should be wiped down with disinfectant just as often, if not more so depending on how often you use it.
- Drawers in refrigerators:
The compartments, drawers and even shelves in our refrigerators can play host to myriad germs, some of which may have been transferred there from food packaging or spillages. If uncovered food items are left in the fridge, then the bacteria can spread to them and make you sick when you eat it. Be sure to wipe refrigerator spillages as soon as they occur, wash stained and dirty drawers and compartments with warm, soapy water and wipe down shelves with vinegar and water. Drying these places before you place food items back in the fridge is highly recommended.
- Faucets:
It’s surely no surprise to know that faucets can be riddled with germs, as they are often the first thing you touch after visiting the restroom, blowing your nose or chopping food items such as raw meat. It can be easy to overlook cleaning your faucets but doing so regularly can help protect the health of you and other members of your household. Make sure you use a solution that is proven to kill germs.
- Cell phones:
We handle these so often that it’s inevitable they will be carrying germs and harmful bacteria on their surface, in fact, they are said to be dirtier than the average toilet seat. To clean your cell phone thoroughly, you’ll need to switch it off completely. Blow dust and dirt off wherever possible, then use a toothpick and cotton swabs to eliminate all traces of dirt from the cracks and keypad. Use a disinfecting solution in conjunction with the cotton swabs but be careful not to get moisture inside the phone and dry it carefully afterwards.
- Toothbrush holders:
Try to remember to dry your toothbrush after each use to help prevent a dirty build-up of moisture and grime in the bottom of the holder. Clean the holder regularly; it may be necessary to soak it in warm, soapy water to remove hardened grime that could be hiding an army of germs.
- TV Remote controls:
As with cell phones, your television remote control is handled frequently, and not always after you’ve washed your hands. Use an anti-bacterial wipe to get rid of grime and dust in between the buttons and use a toothpick for cracks and crevices.
These items are renowned for hosting germs and bacteria and should not be neglected during your cleaning routine. The more often you clean them, the less likely the germs are to multiply and cause you harm.
