When we think of germ hotspots, we usually picture public restrooms, door handles, and
kitchen sponges. But bacteria are sneakier than you might think. They don’t just hang out in obvious places. They like to settle into everyday spots that don’t even register on most people’s cleaning radar.
Here are some surprisingly germy places you may want to
add to your next cleaning routine.
1. The Rubber Seal on Your Blender: After whipping up a smoothie, you likely rinse out the blender jar. But do you take apart the bottom? That rubber gasket (the seal between the blades and the base) is notorious for trapping moisture, fruit pulp, and bacteria. To clean it properly,
disassemble it regularly and wash every part thoroughly in hot, soapy water...or pop it in the dishwasher if it's dishwasher-safe.
2. Reusable Grocery Bags: Those eco-friendly totes carry more than just produce. Studies have shown they often harbor bacteria from raw meat, unwashed veggies, and even the car or trunk
floor where they’re tossed. Toss them in the washing machine weekly, or wipe down plastic-lined bags with a disinfectant cloth after use.
3. The Bottom of Your Purse or Backpack: Think about where you’ve placed your bag recently...restaurant floors, shopping carts, public restrooms? The bottom collects germs and brings
them right into your home. It’s a good habit to never place your bag on counters or kitchen tables. Wipe the base of your purse or backpack weekly with disinfectant wipes or a damp cloth with mild soap. Consider getting a purse
hook so you don't have to put your purse on the floor at restaurants. 4. The Ice Dispenser in Your Fridge: Even though it deals with something as “clean” as ice, the chute where cubes fall out can become a cozy hideout for mold and
bacteria, especially in humid weather. Wipe it down with a vinegar solution every couple of weeks.
5. TV Remotes and Game Controllers: We remember to wipe our phones (sometimes), but when was the last time you cleaned your TV remote? These devices often pass from hand to hand, including during meals or when someone’s
sick. Wipe them down with a not-too-wet disinfecting cloth.
6. Pet Collars and Leashes: Your furry friend's accessories can harbor more than fur. They can collect germs from the floor, soil, saliva, and even other pets. Toss fabric collars and leashes in the laundry, and wipe down leather or nylon ones
regularly.
7. Keyboard Wrist Rests and Mouse Pads: These often-overlooked desk items come into constant contact with your skin, which sheds oils and dead cells all day. Bacteria love that combination. Use a microfiber cloth with a bit of soapy water to wipe these surfaces down, or disinfect with an alcohol-based wipe
if you're short on time.
8. Toothbrush Holders: You rinse your toothbrush, but do you clean what holds it? Toothbrush holders often collect water, toothpaste residue, and bacteria dripping from the brushes. Soak it in hot, soapy water and scrub the interior weekly...or add it to the dishwasher if it's dishwasher-safe.
Also, consider replacing your current holder with a toothbrush holder that is simple and easy to clean. 9. Laundry Hamper Liners: Clothes tossed in after a workout or a sneezy day can leave behind germs on the hamper liner. If your hamper has a fabric liner, be sure to toss it in the wash every week. If not, wipe down plastic hampers with disinfectant.
10. Car Steering Wheel: You hop in and grab the wheel...sometimes after pumping gas, grabbing coffee, or handling groceries. The steering wheel may be one of the dirtiest surfaces you touch regularly. Keep disinfecting wipes in the glove box and give it a quick clean often.
Germs are sneaky. They settle in places you wouldn’t expect and thrive when we overlook them. By adding just a few of these unexpected spots to your regular cleaning routine, you’ll boost your hygiene and cut down on germs in the places you’d least suspect.
Want to make it even easier? Pick one of these to
clean each day and you'll really be keeping those bad germs at bay.
On another note...
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