The germiest spots in your home
A recent study conducted by NSF International, a non-profit public health and safety company based out of Ann Arbor, MI, found that certain household surfaces are more likely than others to contain harmful, germ-spreading bacteria and are often overlooked during people’s cleaning routines.
From November 2010 through January 2011, 22 volunteer families had 30 locations sampled for germs within their homes and car. The survey looked at bathroom and kitchen items as well as other commonly used devices such as cell phones and items like purses, testing for the presence of bacteria (including the common coliform), yeast and mold.
The study found that the germiest items are toothbrush holders, with an average of 2,465,876 germs per 10cm², followed far behind by faucet handles (17,976 per 10cm²) and countertops (4,590 per 10cm²).
Coliform bacteria can cause illness in people with weak immune systems, pregnant women and children, said Ratul Saha, M.Sc., M.S., Ph.D., NSF International Research Scientist.
“The specific symptoms depend on the strain of the bacterium. Common symptoms could be nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and diarrhea; symptoms often associated with food poisoning.”
[See also: Immune-boosting myths, busted]
Other surfaces to be mindful of cleaning include stove knobs, door knobs, the microwave handle, cell phones, toilet handle, fridge handle, and your vehicle’s gear shift.
Cold and flu season is ramping up, and while it may seem like everyone around you is getting sick, there are some things you can do to protect yourself – starting with a thorough cleaning of these household items.
“To avoid getting ill from these bacteria it’s best to regularly sanitize surfaces throughout your home, especially in areas that regularly come in contact with food,” says Saha.
If your toothbrush holder is dishwasher safe, running it through a sanitizing dishwasher once or twice a week will help ensure germs are kept to a minimum, recommends NSF. If not, hand washing with hot soapy water, rinsing, and wiping with a disinfecting wipe once or twice times per week will also work.
For most other surfaces the NSF recommends wiping daily or weekly with a disinfecting wipe to keep harmful germs and bacteria at bay.
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