For example, flu-causing viruses can remain active for as long as two days and some viruses may even spread infections for months. Germs may remain active on hard surfaces like stainless steel and plastic or on softer surfaces, like fabric.
Like viruses, certain bacteria may also survive without a host (such as a human or an animal). A 2013 study published in Infection and Immunity shows that bacterial organisms like Streptococcus pyogenes (a cause of strep throat) and Streptococcus pneumoniae (causes pneumonia and other illnesses) could remain active for extended periods of time, resulting in infections.
Where are all these little buggers hanging out? Here, we look at six places where germs can hide. But before you get thoroughly creeped out, we’ll tell you what you can do to make your home less hospitable to them.
According to a 2017 study in Nature Scientific Report, researchers analyzed the microbial makeup of 28 used kitchen sponges and found species of disease-causing bacteria like Acinetobacter, Moraxella, and Chryseobacterium, among other pathogens.
How to Clean Your Sponge
Do you need to stop using sponges altogether? Not necessarily. Avoid using your sponge to clean up meat products. Instead, consider using disposable paper towels and immediately tossing them in the trash.
Also, you can clean your sponge by soaking it in a combination of water and bleach for one minute, running it through the dishwasher on the hottest and longest setting, and microwaving it on high for one minute. Finally, swap out your used sponge for a clean one every one to two weeks to cut down on the bacterial load you might be wiping around your kitchen.
How to Clean Your Phone
Traditional sanitizing wipes can be harsh on your phone, so the best disinfectant involves combining a little isopropyl alcohol (70% is preferred) with distilled water in a spray bottle. Shake the mixture up and spray it on a microfiber cloth and use it to wipe down your phone.
Or, you can purchase premade phone wipes at most electronic stores.
How to Clean Door Handles and Knobs
Cleaning these areas is a simple fix—grab a disinfectant wipe and run it over the small areas you and your family come into contact with the most.
How to Clean Pet Products
To clean your pet’s food and water bowls, wash them with warm soap and water each day and disinfect the bowls on a weekly basis by cleaning them in the dishwasher.
Additionally, since your pet is licking, chewing, and dragging toys around the house, it’s a good idea to throw those items in the wash every couple of weeks and to use a non-toxic disinfectant to wipe down any toys that aren’t washable.
How to Clean Your Shower Curtain
To properly clean your shower curtain, try washing it in your washing machine on a gentle setting. If that doesn’t remove the unwanted soapy buildup, it might be time to buy a new shower curtain.
Your mouth harbors many germs, and you use your toothbrush to clean off those germs. Your toothbrush can also pick up germs from the environment if you or someone else coughs near it or spills anything on it.
How to Keep Your Toothbrush Clean
To decrease the prospect of developing bacteria on your toothbrush, close the lid on your toilet when you flush it. Also, rinse your toothbrush and let it air dry; placing it in a container while wet creates a welcoming environment for pathogens.
Finally, the American Dental Association recommends that you replace your toothbrush every three to four months or sooner if the bristles on the brush become frayed.
