IDENTIFY THE 5 DIRTIEST PLACES IN THE HOUSE!

When it comes to identifying the dirtiest places in the house, we tend to think that the toilet ticks all the boxes. However, there are certain areas and objects that are just as unhygienic.

It’s very important to identify these areas and objects to make sure they don’t become breeding grounds for germs, bacteria and other microorganisms that can carry diseases and viruses.

Here are the 5 dirtiest places in the home and how to keep them clean on a daily basis:

Sponges

Sponges and other objects used for cleaning, such as mops, are continually exposed to heat and humidity. This makes them a perfect breeding ground for bacteria. When we use sponges to clean surfaces, we may not realize it, but we’re actually spreading bacteria!

To avoid spreading these microorganisms with the sponge, it’s very important to always wash it thoroughly before use. If possible, it’s even advisable to sterilize it in the microwave or in boiling water for 2 minutes, if you suspect it has been infected by bacteria.

If you find that the sponge has become soiled, the best way to avoid spreading dirt is to change it for a new one. Remember, too, to dedicate one sponge for each use, to avoid cross-contamination between different surfaces.

Bathroom seat

Although toilets are not the only place invaded by bacteria, they are undeniably the most exposed, for obvious reasons. The seat, in particular, is particularly infected, as each flush disseminates micro-particles of waste. That’s why you should never forget to lower the seat before flushing. It’s just as important to disinfect the toilet bowl with a disinfectant toilet gel every day, making sure to brush the sides thoroughly.

Handbags and shopping baskets

Did you know? A 2013 study revealed that one in 5 handbags contains more bacteria than a toilet bowl! This is undeniably unappetizing information, since these microbes can be transmitted by hand through simple contact. What’s more, we’re also exposed to these microorganisms through the contents of our handbags, such as wallets, money, make-up, pens and so on.

Given this situation, it’s just as important to empty your handbag regularly for cleaning, and to always wash your hands after handling these items.

The same applies to shopping bags and plastic bags, which accumulate germs due to the many products they contain: fresh fruit and vegetables, meat, fish, etc. In addition to regular cleaning, it’s advisable to wrap all purchases separately to keep the bag as clean as possible.

 Door handles

If there’s one lesson we’ve learned from the Covid-19 health catastrophe, it’s that viruses cling to the various points of contact we touch on a daily basis. The door handle is the most exposed, as we touch it countless times throughout the day.

That’s why you need to make sure you always clean the door handles in your home, as well as those on your furniture and fridge. For more effective disinfection, remember to wipe them down with a disinfectant wipe after each cleaning.

The worktop

The kitchen is a warm, damp room, and a favorable environment for the proliferation of microorganisms such as germs, bacteria and viruses. The worktop is particularly exposed, as we regularly handle fresh food.

To avoid cross-contamination and maintain optimal worktop hygiene, you need to disinfect it before and after each meal preparation. Water and a few drops of dishwashing liquid are enough to kill germs.

The cutting board is also particularly important. To disinfect it, simply immerse it in boiling water for a few minutes.