Hidden germ hotspots in your home that could secretly be making you ill
Keeping up-to-date with your household chores can be a challenging task. The never-ending list of things to stay on top of in your home can be overwhelming, so it's no wonder areas fly under the radar.
Experts are now warning that there are, however, certain areas and tasks that can often be overlooked for the sake of your health.
Brian Toward, CEO of Wholesale Domestic, warned: “People tend to focus on cleaning the main areas of their bathroom such as sinks, toilets and floors but neglect everyday bathroom items that can gather bacteria, mould and fungi.
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"This can lead to illnesses and infections if they’re not addressed. For example, if left untreated, mould can trigger respiratory issues, allergies and asthma attacks due to allergens released into the air.”
Brian has provided a list of overlooked hotspots, along with tips to keep bathrooms clean and minimise health risks.
Toothbrush Holders
“People don’t realise that their toothbrush holder could be making them sick,” says Toward. “It’s constantly exposed to moisture, creating the perfect breeding ground for bacteria and mould. When you place your toothbrush into a dirty holder, the handle picks up these germs, which can then transfer to your hands and mouth when brushing. To minimise this risk, clean your toothbrush holder at least once a week with hot, soapy water and allow it to dry fully before placing your toothbrush back inside.”
Bath Mats
“Damp bath mats can be a magnet for bacteria, mildew and even dust mites, especially if they aren’t dried properly between uses. Wash fabric bath mats at least once a week on a high temperature setting, letting them dry completely after every use.”
Toilet Brush Holders
“The toilet brush is an obvious place for bacteria, but the holder itself can be even worse. Any residual water that collects in the base creates an ideal environment for germs to multiply. Ideally rinse the toilet brush after each use, allowing it to dry completely and regularly disinfecting both the brush and the holder.”
Loofahs and Shower Sponges
"Loofahs and shower sponges can trap moisture and dead skin cells, causing bacteria and fungi growth. These should be rinsed thoroughly after each use and replaced regularly. If your loofah starts to smell or shows signs of mould, it’s time to throw it out.”
Towels
“Towels can start to grow bacteria and mould if they aren’t washed frequently enough. Ideally, towels should be washed after three to four uses and fully dried between. Before hanging your towel, give it a good shake to remove any excess moisture. Spread it out to dry in a well-ventilated space in your bathroom instead of folding or bunching it up. This allows air to circulate around the towel, helping it dry faster.”
Shower Curtains
“Fabric and plastic shower curtains can develop mould and mildew over time due to constant exposure to moisture. Washing fabric curtains in the machine every month and wiping down plastic curtains with a disinfectant can help prevent mould build-up.”
