The Hidden Germ Factories In Your Home: 10 Everyday Items You Need To Disinfect

Add as a preferred source on Google

We often think of our homes as safe havens from germs, but many everyday items are surprisingly germy. These objects, often handled multiple times a day, can harbor bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens that may lead to illness if not properly cleaned.

While some of these items might seem harmless, they can accumulate a significant amount of germs, making regular disinfection crucial.

Here are 10 shockingly germy everyday items and provide tips on how to effectively disinfect them to maintain a healthier environment.

1. Smartphones

Our smartphones are practically extensions of our hands, going with us everywhere we go, from the kitchen to the bathroom. This constant exposure makes them breeding grounds for bacteria, including E. coli and Staphylococcus. Studies have shown that the average smartphone can be dirtier than a toilet seat.

To disinfect your phone, start by powering it down. Use a microfiber cloth lightly dampened with a mixture of 70% isopropyl alcohol and 30% water to gently wipe down the screen and all surfaces. Avoid getting moisture into any openings, and let the phone air dry before turning it back on.

2. TV Remotes

TV remotes are another commonly overlooked source of germs. They are often passed from person to person, sometimes even while eating, making them prime candidates for contamination. Research has found that TV remotes can harbor cold and flu viruses, as well as bacteria.

To disinfect your remote, remove the batteries first. Then, use a disinfectant wipe or a cloth dampened with isopropyl alcohol to clean all surfaces, including between the buttons. Allow the remote to dry completely before replacing the batteries.

3. Light Switches

Light switches are touched multiple times a day by various household members, often without anyone thinking to clean them. This makes them a common spot for germs to accumulate. Bacteria from hands can transfer to the switch, where they can survive for hours or even days.

To clean light switches, use a disinfectant wipe or a cloth dampened with a mild cleaning solution. Gently wipe the switch and the surrounding plate, being careful not to let excess moisture seep inside. Repeat this process regularly, especially in high-traffic areas of the home.

4. Kitchen Sponges

The kitchen sponge is one of the most germ-ridden items in the home. Sponges are often used to clean up food spills, wash dishes, and wipe down surfaces, making them a perfect breeding ground for bacteria like Salmonella and E. coli.

To disinfect your sponge, you can either microwave it for one minute (make sure it's damp first) or soak it in a solution of water and bleach (1 part bleach to 9 parts water) for five minutes. Replace your sponge frequently, as no amount of cleaning can completely rid it of bacteria over time.

5. Toothbrush Holders

Toothbrush holders are another unsuspecting germ hotspot. Toothbrushes are often stored wet, and water can collect in the holder, creating a moist environment where bacteria and mold can thrive.

To disinfect your toothbrush holder, remove the toothbrushes and rinse the holder with hot water. Then, soak it in a mixture of 70% isopropyl alcohol and water for a few minutes. Scrub any crevices with a small brush, rinse thoroughly, and let it air dry before returning the toothbrushes.

6. Reusable Grocery Bags

Reusable grocery bags are great for the environment but can also be a source of contamination if not regularly cleaned. These bags can pick up bacteria from food items, shopping carts, and even car trunks, potentially leading to cross-contamination.

To disinfect reusable grocery bags, wash them in the washing machine using hot water and regular detergent. If the bag is not machine washable, wipe it down with a disinfectant wipe or a cloth dampened with a mild bleach solution. Allow the bag to dry completely before storing.

7. Computer Keyboards

Computer keyboards are frequently used but rarely cleaned, making them a prime spot for germs. Crumbs, dust, and other debris can accumulate between the keys, creating a breeding ground for bacteria. Studies have shown that keyboards can be up to five times dirtier than a toilet seat.

To clean your keyboard, first, turn off your computer and unplug the keyboard. Shake it out gently to remove loose debris, then use a can of compressed air to blow out any particles stuck between the keys. Finally, wipe down the surface with a disinfectant wipe or a cloth dampened with isopropyl alcohol.

8. Handles and Doorknobs

Handles and doorknobs are some of the most frequently touched surfaces in the home, making them hotspots for germ transfer. Every time someone touches a doorknob, bacteria and viruses can be left behind, where they can survive for hours or even days.

To disinfect handles and doorknobs, use a disinfectant spray or wipe. Pay special attention to high-touch areas like bathroom and kitchen doors. For a thorough clean, wipe down the entire handle and any surrounding areas that are regularly touched.

9. Purses and Wallets

Purses and wallets are often placed on various surfaces throughout the day, from countertops to bathroom stalls, making them magnets for germs. They can pick up bacteria, viruses, and other contaminants, which can then transfer to your hands every time you reach inside.

To clean a purse, empty it first and vacuum out any crumbs or debris. Then, wipe down the exterior with a disinfectant wipe or a cloth dampened with a mild cleaning solution. For wallets, remove all contents and wipe down both the inside and outside with a disinfectant wipe. Allow both items to dry completely before using them again.

10. Pet Toys

Pet toys, especially those that are frequently chewed or played with outside, can harbor a surprising amount of bacteria and dirt. Pets can transfer germs from their mouths to the toys, which can then spread to other surfaces in your home.

To disinfect pet toys, check the manufacturer's instructions first. Many toys can be washed in the dishwasher or washing machine. For toys that can't be machine-washed, soak them in a solution of water and pet-safe disinfectant for a few minutes, then rinse thoroughly and let them air dry.

Make it a habit to clean these often-overlooked germ hotspots, and you'll be well on your way to a cleaner, safer home.