5 Places Germs are Hiding in Your Home

Germs are all around us, and they can be especially prevalent in our homes. While we may be diligent about cleaning the most obvious areas, there are many places where germs can hide that we may not think to clean as frequently. In this blog post, we'll take a look at five surprising places germs hide in your home and how to clean them.

Dish sponges and dishcloths

These kitchen staples are often used to clean dishes and counters, but they can also be a breeding ground for germs. In fact, a study by the University of Arizona found that dish sponges and dishcloths can contain up to 10 million bacteria per square inch. To keep them clean, regularly run them through the dishwasher or microwave them for a couple of minutes.

Toothbrush holder

Your toothbrush holder may not seem like a likely place for germs to hide, but it can be a breeding ground for bacteria if not cleaned regularly. To keep it clean, wash it with soap and water or put it in the dishwasher. Along with that be sure to change your toothbrush out at least every 2-4 months or after you have been sick.

Your Refrigerator

Your refrigerator may be a source of germs, particularly if you don't clean it regularly. The door seal and gasket can harbor bacteria, as can spills and crumbs on the shelves.

While cleaning the fridge is on nobody's list of favorite things to do- here are a few tips that can help you get the task done:

• Clear out expired items: Regularly go through your fridge and throw away any expired or spoiled food. This will help to prevent the growth of bacteria and keep your fridge smelling fresh.

• Wipe down the interior: Use a solution of water and white vinegar to wipe down the interior of your fridge, including the shelves and door compartments. This will help to remove any spills or stains and keep the fridge clean.

• Clean the door seals: The door seals and gaskets of the refrigerator can harbor bacteria. Clean them regularly with a solution of water and white vinegar or mild soap.

• Organize your food: Keep your food organized in containers or airtight bags. This will help to keep your fridge clean and prevent cross-contamination.

• Keep a thermometer: Keep a thermometer in your fridge to make sure the temperature is between 0-4°C (32-40°F) which helps to prevent the growth of bacteria and keep your food fresh.

• Clean the exterior: The exterior of your fridge should be cleaned as well. Wipe it down with a damp cloth and mild detergent, paying special attention to the handle which can be a source of bacteria.

• Clean the coils and drip pan: The coils and drip pan at the bottom of the fridge can collect dust, which can prevent your fridge from running efficiently. Clean them regularly with a brush or vacuum.

By following these tips, you can help to keep your fridge clean and prevent the growth of bacteria, which can help to prolong the freshness of your food and keep your family healthy.

Cell phone

Our cell phones are with us all the time, and we often touch them with dirty hands. In fact, a study by the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine found that cell phones can carry up to 10 times more bacteria than most toilet seats. To keep your phone clean, wipe it down with a disinfectant wipe or a solution of water and white vinegar.

Carpet

Your carpet may not be the first place you think of when it comes to germs, but it can be a breeding ground for bacteria, particularly if you have pets. To keep your carpet clean, vacuum it regularly, and spot-clean any spills or stains.

Shampooing is one of the most common ways to clean carpets and it is an effective method for removing dirt, debris, and stains. However, it's not the only way to clean carpets and in some cases, it may not be the best option.

Other methods for cleaning carpets include:

• Dry cleaning: This method uses a powder or a solution that is applied to the carpet and then vacuumed up. This method is good for removing dirt, dust, and stains and it dries quickly.

• Steam cleaning: This method uses hot water and a cleaning solution to deep clean carpets. It is effective at removing dirt, stains, and allergens and it can help to sanitize and deodorize carpets.

• Bonnet cleaning: This method uses a rotating pad that is dampened with a cleaning solution to scrub the carpet. It is a good option for lightly soiled carpets or for maintaining carpets that have already been cleaned.

• Encapsulation cleaning: This method uses a cleaning solution that encapsulates dirt and debris, which makes it easier to vacuum up. It dries quickly and is good for low-traffic areas.

The best way to clean your carpet depends on the type of carpet, the level of soiling, and the specific needs of your home. It's important to consult a professional carpet cleaner or the manufacturer's instructions to determine the best method for your carpet.

It's also important to keep in mind that regular vacuuming and spot cleaning can help to extend the life of your carpet and keep it looking clean. This can also help to reduce the need for more intensive cleaning methods.

By being aware of these five surprising places germs hide in your home, you can take steps to keep them clean and reduce the risk of spreading germs to yourself and your family.

Remember, it's not just about cleaning these areas, but also about making sure to clean them regularly to keep germs at bay.

What other areas are often overlooked that you regularly clean in your home? Let us know in the comment below!