We wash, scrub and sanitize—but no one is able to live in a totally bacteria-free environment. “If you’re breathing, there will always be some bacteria,” said Carol Alt recently on her health show.
We think you’d be shocked to know that some of the most unlikely places that are full of germs, possibly leading to illness and disease.
For those concerned about chemicals, there are some pretty great organic green products on the market; also keep in mind that many essential oils, like tea tree and clove, have anti-bacterial properties.
Some of the most unpleasant surprises include:
- Handbags
They have more bacteria than toilets, says Initial Washroom Hygiene. Of all the bags they swabbed, 20 percent had bacteria-related contamination that crossed inside to hand and face creams, lipstick and mascara.
Stick with the leather or vinyl bags, since they tend to be cleaner than cloth. If you’re in a public restroom, hang your bag on a hook, rather than leaving it on the floor.
- Shopping cart handles
They’re handled by many people every day, and swabs have revealed saliva, bacteria and more. What’s more, raw food also carries some pretty nasty pathogens.
A lot of stores now have disinfectant wipes near their carts. If yours doesn’t, bring your own or use a cart handle cover.
- Money
This is one of the worst offenders. One paper bill can be handled by dozens of people. Also note that viruses and bacteria live on surfaces for several days.
If you handle money, wash your hands frequently, use disinfectant wipes—and for heaven’s sake, wash those hands before eating!
- The kitchen sink
Dirty dishes transfer a lot of bacteria! Kitchen sinks also often house dirty, sometimes smelly sponges–and that odor is caused by bacteria!
Keep kitchen sink free of dirty dishes, and throw those sponges in the microwave to nuke for 2 minutes to kill bacteria. If that’s not possible, throw them in the washer or just replace them.
- Bathtub
Kind of ironic, isn’t it? The very place you go to get clean is full of bacteria–even more so than toilets!
Make sure you clean the tub after each bath or shower.
So now we turn to you–what are some of the things you do to stay as bacteria-free as possible? We’d love to hear!
