In our daily lives, we encounter various household items that we use without much thought. However, many of these items can harbor germs and bacteria, leading to various illnesses and health issues. In this article, we will explore 11 common household items that can make you sick and discuss ways to keep them clean and safe for use.
Number One: Mobile Phones
Mobile phones have become an indispensable part of modern life, accompanying us everywhere we go. Surprisingly, mobile phones can carry up to 10 times more germs than a toilet seat. E. coli, a bacteria that can cause diarrhea and stomach discomfort, can thrive on your phone’s surface for hours. To prevent the spread of germs, remember to wash your hands with soap before using your mobile phone, especially after visiting the restroom.
Number Two: Remote Controls
Remote controls are found in every household, and they are often handled by everyone, including children who tend to put them in their mouths or drop them on the floor. These actions can lead to the accumulation of harmful germs on the remote control’s surface. To maintain cleanliness, make it a habit to clean your remote control regularly with antibacterial wipes.
Number Three: Computer Keyboards
In today’s digital age, almost every household uses computers for various purposes, from work to entertainment. While using the computer, it’s common to eat and drink, leading to the accumulation of germs on the keyboard’s surface. To keep your keyboard germ-free, clean it with disinfectant wipes and a keyboard brush.
Number Four: Dishwashing Sponges
Dishwashing sponges are essential for cleaning, but they can become breeding grounds for bacteria. While they are a means of cleaning, they also need cleaning themselves. After each use, make sure to rinse your sponge thoroughly and replace it regularly to prevent bacteria buildup.
Number Five: Toothbrush Holders
Toothbrush holders are often overlooked when it comes to cleaning, but they can harbor harmful bacteria. Water and toothpaste residue can create an ideal environment for germs to thrive. To maintain oral hygiene, remember to clean your toothbrush holder regularly, ensuring it remains free of germs.
Number Six: Money
Money changes hands countless times, and various types of germs can be found on currency notes and coins. Since it’s impossible to trace where your money has been, always wash your hands thoroughly after handling cash to minimize the risk of germs spreading.
Number Seven: Handbags
Handbags go with us everywhere, and they often come into contact with dirty surfaces like floors and counters. To prevent germs from hitching a ride on your handbag, hang it up whenever possible and clean it regularly with antibacterial wipes.
Number Eight: Towels
Towels are used to dry ourselves after bathing, but they can also trap moisture, creating an environment for bacteria to grow. To keep your towels fresh and germ-free, make sure to wash and replace them regularly.
Number Nine: Pillows
We spend hours every night sleeping on our pillows, which can accumulate sweat, oil, and dead skin cells over time. This creates a breeding ground for dust mites and bacteria. To ensure a clean and healthy sleep environment, wash your pillows regularly or use pillow protectors.
Number Ten: Hairbrushes
Hairbrushes often contain a buildup of hair, oils, and hair products that can harbor germs. Regularly clean your hairbrushes by removing trapped hair and soaking them in warm, soapy water.
Number Eleven: Bath Towels
Bath towels, like hand towels, can become a breeding ground for bacteria due to their moisture-absorbing nature. After using a bath towel, hang it up to dry thoroughly and wash it regularly to maintain hygiene.
In conclusion, everyday household items may seem harmless, but they can harbor hidden germs and bacteria that can lead to various health issues. By incorporating regular cleaning and hygiene practices into your daily routine, you can minimize the risk of falling ill due to these common household items. Stay clean, stay healthy!