Many people think a toilet seat is one of the dirtiest places in a home. However, research shows that everyday items can have more germs. Germs can make you sick or cause allergies. By learning about these items, you can take steps to keep your home cleaner and healthier.

1. Smartphones

Your smartphone is with you almost all day. It touches your hands, face, and many surfaces. Studies show that smartphones can carry germs like E. coli and Staphylococcus. Even though you clean your hands often, your phone may not be cleaned as regularly. Wipe your phone with a gentle disinfectant and a soft cloth to lower the germs.

2. Kitchen Sponges

Kitchen sponges are very useful for cleaning, but they can also hold many germs. Sponges are wet, and germs love moist places. They can carry bacteria such as Salmonella and E. coli. To keep your kitchen safe, replace your sponge often. You can also sanitize your sponge by putting it in the microwave when it is wet. Always be careful when using a microwave for this purpose.

3. Remote Controls

Remote controls are used many times a day. They travel from your hand to the couch and then to the table. Each time, they pick up germs. Studies have found that remote controls may be home to several types of bacteria. Wipe your remote control with a disinfecting cloth, especially during cold and flu season, to lower the risk of spreading germs.

4. Computer Keyboards and Mice

Many of us spend hours on our computers. During this time, our keyboards and mice collect dirt, food crumbs, and bacteria. Germs like staphylococci can live on these devices for a long time. Use alcohol-based wipes to clean your keyboard and mouse regularly. This step helps lower the risk of germs getting into your body when you use your computer.

5. Doorknobs and Light Switches

Doorknobs and light switches are touched by everyone in your home. Many people use these items daily. Because of this, they can become full of germs. Bacteria that cause colds or other respiratory infections may live on these surfaces. Clean them often with a disinfectant wipe to keep germs from spreading.

6. Bathroom Faucets and Handles

Bathroom faucets and handles may not seem as dirty as a toilet seat, but they can be very contaminated. When you wash your hands, germs from your skin can move to these surfaces. Bacteria like Pseudomonas and E. coli might be found here. Cleaning these areas with proper cleaners helps reduce the number of germs.

7. Cutting Boards

Cutting boards are used to prepare food. When you cut raw meat, fruits, or vegetables, germs can stick to the board. Cutting boards may have bacteria such as Campylobacter and Salmonella. Even boards used only for vegetables can get germs if not cleaned well. Wash your cutting boards thoroughly with hot, soapy water after each use. This practice helps avoid mixing germs from raw and ready-to-eat foods.

8. Toothbrush Holders

Toothbrush holders are small but can be very dirty. They collect water from the sink and can hold tiny bits of toothpaste and food. These holders can become a home for germs like Streptococcus and Staphylococcus. Rinse your toothbrush holder often and let it dry completely. You might also replace it every few months to keep it clean.

9. Reusable Grocery Bags

Reusable grocery bags are a great way to reduce waste, but they can also hold germs. These bags often touch raw food, like meat or vegetables, and then touch other surfaces in your home. Germs from the store can stay on the bag until you wash it. Follow the care instructions to wash your grocery bags regularly. You might also choose to use separate bags for different types of food.

10. Pet Bowls

If you have pets, their bowls are another place where germs can grow. Pet bowls are often washed less frequently than dishes. Germs like Salmonella and Campylobacter can be found on these bowls. Clean your pet’s bowl with hot, soapy water each day. Dry the bowl well before putting food back in it. This simple step can protect both you and your pet from harmful germs.

Keeping Your Home Healthier

Cleaning these items does not take much time, and it can help keep your home healthy. Here are a few tips to remember:

Clean Often: Make a habit of cleaning high-touch items. Wipe your phone, remote, and other items at least once a week.
Use the Right Cleaners: Choose cleaners that are known to kill germs. Read the labels to make sure you are using them properly.
Wash Your Hands: Always wash your hands after touching items that might be full of germs. This helps prevent the spread of bacteria.
Replace Items: Items like sponges and toothbrushes should be replaced often. This helps prevent germs from building up.
Educate Your Family: Tell everyone in your home about the importance of cleaning. This can help protect everyone from getting sick.

Final Thoughts

It might seem surprising that everyday items are dirtier than a toilet seat. However, knowing which items are likely to have germs can help you take steps to keep your home safe. Simple cleaning habits can lower the likelihood of infections and help you maintain a healthy living space. Each time you clean your phone, remote control, or cutting board, you lower the chance that harmful germs will spread.