The Surprising Places Germs Love to Hide

ccAnd how to combat them

Smartphones

Studies have found that cell phones carry 10x more bacteria than most toilet seats. The average person checks their phone 205x/day. Sanitize your phone and your hands regularly.

Bathroom Surfaces

Flushing spreads aerosols containing feces up to 5 feet, which settle on surfaces and float in the air for up to 2 hours (called a fecal plume). Flush with the lid down when possible.

Toothbrushes & Towels

One study found 60% of toothbrushes contain fecal matter, also from flushing. So do towels. Store toothbrushes in a cabinet with room to air dry and replace them every three months. Wash towels every few days.

Kitchen Sinks

The kitchen sink contains 100,000 more bacteria than a toilet – primarily from meat and vegetables – which can splash onto food, utensils and hands. Clean the sink with hot water and soap or a little bleach after food prep.

Shoes in the House

Shoes are covered with bacteria and viruses that can be transferred to floors and rugs. One study found E. coli on 96% of shoes, from public bathrooms and animals. Keep slippers by the door for easy changing.

Doorknobs and Other Surfaces

Cold and flu viruses remain infectious on non-porous surfaces like light switches and countertops longer than porous surfaces like fabric. Estimates vary but most viruses can only survive about 5-9 hours outside of the body.

Wash Your Hands

People touch their face an average of 15x/hour. Handwashing is still the best way to fight germs. Wet hands, lather and rub for at least 20 seconds before rinsing. (Sing the happy birthday song.)

Antibacterial Soap

Studies show antibacterial soap is no more effective and may create antibiotic-resistant bacteria, disrupt the endocrine system and kill good bacteria. Stick to regular soap.

UV Sanitizers

Research has found that UV sanitizers eliminate nearly 99.99% of bacteria, fungi and viruses. Portable devices can disinfect phones, shoes and toothbrushes.