“A clean home is a happy home.” However, even the cleanest of people fall victim to the hidden germs that lurk on the most germ-infested household items. That means you need to take your cleaning routine to a new level. Don’t worry, we’re not talking about five more hours of cleaning each week; We’re talking about smarter cleaning. Quality over quantity.
We’ve compiled a short list of some of the most germ-infested household items.
Kitchen Sponges
How ironic – a cleaning device that needs to be cleaned, but this is one of the germ-infested household items. While the kitchen sponge is excellent for absorbing messes, it’s also a breeding area for germs. It can carry harmful food-borne pathogens in the nooks and crannies of it’s surface. To minimize the risk of contamination, clean your sponge daily by throwing it in the microwave for 30 seconds- the heat will kill most germs. Give your sponge a break by using the dishwasher instead. Always remember to store your sponge in a clean, dry place when not in use and replace regularly.
Door Handles
Ever wonder why people walk out the public bathrooms with a paper towel in hand? Usually, it’s not because they are still drying their hands, but to avoid touching germs covering door handles. Door handles inside your home can be just as dirty as the ones in a public bathroom. This also includes fridge handles, cabinet knobs and switches. The next time you disinfect your home, don’t overlook the little things. ALL door handles need to be cleaned often, because they are one of the most germ-infested household items.
Stuffed Animals and Toys
It’s your child’s most prized possession. Chances are, he or she drags that old stuffed teddy bear everywhere. This means they may also be carrying a colony of germs around your home. Most stuffed animals are washing machine safe, so throw it in there with the laundry. Also, try to go through your child’s room once a week and clean hard-surfaced toys with a disinfecting wipe.
Your Kids!
Okay, so your kids aren’t items, but they may be the germ culprit! Schools are some of the most germ-infested areas and when your child returns from school, it’s likely he or she is carrying some of germs along. Make sure your child knows the basics: wash hands after using the bathroom, take shoes off before entering the house, and cover a cough or sneeze with a handkerchief or elbow. Not only will these hygiene routines help keep your entire family safe, it will make for healthy habits in the future.
Thankfully, 99 percent of germs are harmless. Even so, it’s important that you are aware of the places in your home that pose a threat. Avoid the doctor’s office by beinging aware of these simple tricks. What do you clean regularly that other moms may not think of? Share it on our Facebook page!
