8 Everyday Household Items You Should Clean More Frequently for Better Hygiene

Maintaining a clean home goes beyond just wiping down countertops and vacuuming floors. Many household items are often overlooked when it comes to regular cleaning, despite being used daily. These items collect dirt, germs, and bacteria that can affect your health and well-being . To improve your home's hygiene and avoid health risks, here are eight everyday household items that need to be cleaned more frequently.

1. Kitchen Sponges

Kitchen sponges are notorious for harboring bacteria. They are exposed to food particles, moisture, and grease daily, which creates an ideal breeding ground for harmful germs. Despite their constant exposure to cleaning products, sponges should be sanitized or replaced every week. To sanitize , soak them in a mixture of water and bleach or microwave them for one minute to kill germs.

2. Cutting Boards

Cutting boards, especially plastic ones, often have grooves that trap bacteria from raw meats, vegetables, and fruits. Regularly wash them with hot, soapy water after each use. For deeper cleaning, sanitize with a vinegar or hydrogen peroxide solution. Wooden boards can be oiled and cleaned with salt and lemon to prevent bacterial growth.

3. Dish Towels

Dish towels are used for drying hands, dishes, and wiping down surfaces, which means they absorb moisture and food particles constantly. If not cleaned frequently, they can harbor bacteria and unpleasant odors. Wash dish towels every few days in hot water to kill germs , and replace them regularly.

4. Bathroom Towels

Much like dish towels, bathroom towels come into contact with moisture and skin. After each use, bacteria can linger on towels, leading to potential skin irritations or infections. Towels should be washed after every 2-3 uses to maintain hygiene and avoid spreading germs .

5. Toothbrushes

Toothbrushes are essential for oral hygiene, but they can also accumulate bacteria, especially if left in a moist environment like the bathroom. Rinse your toothbrush thoroughly after every use, and replace it every three months or sooner if the bristles are worn down.

6. Cell Phones

Cell phones are constantly handled and come into contact with countless surfaces throughout the day. They carry germs from public places, restaurants, and even the bathroom. To keep your phone clean, wipe it down regularly with an alcohol-based disinfectant wipe or screen- safe cleaning solution.

7. Remote Controls

With the frequency of use in every household, remote controls accumulate dust, oils from your hands, and germs. These are often overlooked when cleaning, but they should be wiped down weekly. Use a disinfecting wipe or a microfiber cloth to clean remote controls, especially during cold and flu season.

8. Pillows

Pillows accumulate sweat, saliva, and dust mites over time. Despite being covered by pillowcases, they still need regular cleaning. Wash your pillows every 3-6 months, depending on usage, and make sure to follow the manufacturer's care instructions. Some pillows can be machine washed, while others may need to be dry cleaned.

Comparison Table: Frequency of Cleaning for Household Items

<th>Household Item</th>

<th>Frequency of Cleaning</th>

<th>Cleaning Method</th>

</tr>

<tr>

<td>Kitchen Sponges</td>

<td>Weekly</td>

<td>Soak in bleach-water mixture or microwave for 1 minute</td>

</tr>

<tr>

<td>Cutting Boards</td>

<td>After each use</td>

<td>Wash with hot soapy water, sanitize with vinegar or hydrogen peroxide</td>

</tr>

<tr>

<td>Dish Towels</td>

<td>Every 2-3 days</td>

<td>Wash in hot water</td>

</tr>

<tr>

<td>Bathroom Towels</td>

<td>Every 2-3 uses</td>

<td>Wash in hot water</td>

</tr>

<tr>

<td>Toothbrushes</td>

<td>Every 3 months</td>

<td>Rinse thoroughly, replace regularly</td>

</tr>

<tr>

<td>Cell Phones</td>

<td>Weekly</td>

<td>Wipe down with alcohol-based disinfectant or screen-safe cleaner</td>

</tr>

<tr>

<td>Remote Controls</td>

<td>Weekly</td>

<td>Wipe with disinfecting wipes or microfiber cloth</td>

</tr>

<tr>

<td>Pillows</td>

<td>Every 3-6 months</td>

<td>Wash according to manufacturer’s instructions</td>

</tr>

</table>

Conclusion

While many of us are diligent about keeping the most obvious areas of our homes clean, there are many household items that require frequent attention to ensure hygiene and health. Regularly cleaning sponges, cutting boards, and other items in your home not only keeps your environment fresh but also minimizes the spread of bacteria, viruses, and allergens. Make it a habit to clean these items regularly, and you’ll create a healthier living space for you and your family.

Recommended Websites for Cleaning Supplies and Tips:

1 The American Cleaning Institute (ACI) - https://www.cleaninginstitute.org/

2 Martha Stewart - https://www.marthastewart.com/

3 The Spruce - https://www.thespruce.com/

4 Good Housekeeping - https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/

5 Clean My Space - https://cleanmyspace.com/

6 Ecosmart - https://www.ecosmartus.com/

7 Grove Collaborative - https://www.grove.co/

8 Clorox - https://www.clorox.com/

9 Seventh Generation - https://www.seventhgeneration.com/

10 Amazon Cleaning Supplies - https://www.amazon.com/cleaning-supplies