Think you keep a clean house? Think again.
Millions and millions of nasty inhabitants reside within your home, and they’re bunkmates in some of the least expected places. Follow along and find out some key areas you may have missed in your last cleaning spree, and discover where some of the unhealthiest bacteria you can encounter thrive best!
Kitchen Sink & Cleaning Utensils
Big Bads: E. coli, Salmonella, Listeria
It’s fairly common to forget that the very items we use to clean with can become the filthiest! Think about it. The amount of raw meats, dirt, grime, and dust that comes in contact with our kitchen sink and all the scrubbing utensils we utilize there is only being transferred from one surface to another.
Fight Back: Throw cloths and sponges in the washing machine on the hot cycle. Fill the sink with unscented bleach and one quart of water. Let the solution sit for ten minutes, then rinse and pat dry.
Toothbrush
Big Bads: E. Coli, Staph, Mold
Another common item that’s used to clean, but unfortunately isn’t cleaned too often itself. Your toothbrush can be home to a variety of serious bacteria due to its proximity to the “royal throne”. A horrible mental image, but particles of what gets flushed do become airborne and find new lodgings in your toothbrush. And, eventually, your mouth.
Fight Back: Closing the lid isn’t just a courtesy. It helps to keep those particles from becoming airborne. Shut the toilet lid before flushing. Do not use a plastic cap to cover your toothbrush, which can keep it from airing out and spur extra bacterial growth. Swap for a new toothbrush every month, or before the bristles begin to fray.
Coffee Maker
Big Bads: Mold, Staph, E. Coli
Ready for that morning cup of joe? Because your bacterial buddies are ready for you. As with any surface that provides both heat and moisture, the coffee maker is bound to brew its own bundle of bacteria given the chance.
Fight Back: Pour out the water and slip in some vinegar, then wipe down the interior of the coffee maker with a soapy and non-abrasive cloth before a final rinse. Perform a few water-cleansing brews to complete.
Pet Toys & Bowls
Big Bads: E. Coli, Listeria, Staph, Salmonella & Many More
Sharing isn’t always caring, and what your pets track into the house on their toys and after lapping up a few gulps of water in their bowls is downright frightening. Imagine the many items your furry children may have rolled in, chewed up, or dropped their ball into.
Fight Back: Any item that can be thrown into the washing machine on the highest heat cycle, should be on a weekly basis. Wash your pets’ bowls daily in a different sink than where you prepare meals with a cloth dedicated specifically to them.