How much do you think about the germ-covered surfaces you touch 34 times a day? Not much? Maybe that’s a good thing in some ways. After all, if we thought about those germy surfaces all the time, we might drive ourselves crazy, right? Well, without obsessing over it, there are some items we use all the time that should really be disinfected often. It doesn’t have to take a lot of time, and it could save you from getting sick. Here are 8 germ-laden items you should be disinfecting regularly.
1. Hand Towels
Whether in your kitchen or bathroom, hand towels are a fabulous source for germs. If your towel doesn’t dry completely in short order, it will breed bacteria. Add to that the fact that not everyone washes their hands properly before using the towel. It all results in a quick build-up of germs. While you’re unlikely to need a fresh towel every day, you should change them out for clean ones a couple of times per week.
2. Keys
Have you ever cleaned your keys? Think about it. You touch them all the time, whether you’re well or not. They get thrown on counters, in purses, and in pockets. You wouldn’t get anywhere without them, but they could make you sick if you don’t disinfect them with some regularity. It’s no big deal — just grab an antibacterial wipe. You’ll probably be surprised at the grime that comes off!
3. Your Phone
Yeah, this is no secret. Your phone is probably in your hands for a good portion of the day, which means it gets germy — fast. In fact, research says your phone is 10 times dirtier than your toilet seat! Ewww! Take an antibacterial wipe to it a few times week, if not every day.
4. Your Glasses
This is another thing you touch all the time. You probably wipe your lenses for smudges, but do you disinfect your glasses — ever?
5. The Kitchen Sponge
Your kitchen sponge could be the dirtiest thing in your home. Think of how often it gets wet and the things it comes into contact with. Yuck. You can toss it in the dishwasher regularly to get it clean, then let it dry completely. You can also boil it, or use bleach for the best disinfecting power.
6. Re-Useable Grocery Bags
We love our re-useable grocery bags. They’re great for the environment and super convenient. But with all the food going in and out, they get really germy too! For vinyl bags, spray them with hydrogen peroxide and then wipe them out. For cloth bags, don’t forget to toss them in the washing machine regularly.
7. Doorknobs
When someone gets sick, I usually think to disinfect our household doorknobs. But maybe people would get sick less often if I made this a more regular practice. They get touched dozens of times a day.
8. Kitchen Sink
Your kitchen sink is actually super germ-ridden. To sanitize it, use your favorite disinfectant or follow this DIY process.
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