5 Unsanitary Things You Overlook When Cleaning

Cleaning every single item in your home regularly is impractical; that's why we have spring cleaning. However, some things should never be overlooked, yet often are. This article highlights those often-neglected areas.

Many of us skip certain cleaning tasks to speed through chores and enjoy more leisure time. Others may not realize the importance of cleaning these frequently used items. No matter which group you fall into, it’s time for a change! Here are five unsanitary things in your home that need regular cleaning.

Trash Can

Trash cans are among the most unhygienic items in a home, yet they are often the least cleaned. These bins can harbor bacteria and emit unpleasant odors, making a deep clean essential. Follow these steps to thoroughly clean your trash can:

1. Preparation: Put on rubber gloves and take the trash can outside. If an outdoor water connection isn't available, you can use a bathroom.

2. Initial Rinse: Hose down the trash can to loosen any hardened debris.

3. Scrubbing: Use a strong-scented disinfectant and a scrubber dedicated solely to the trash can. Scrub thoroughly.

4. Disinfecting: Let the disinfectant sit for 15-20 minutes to kill bacteria.

5. Final Rinse: Rinse off the disinfectant.

6. Drying: Allow the trash can to dry in the sun, which helps eliminate any remaining bacteria.

Tips to Keep Your Trash Can Clean:

• Line with Newspaper: Place sheets of newspaper at the bottom before adding a garbage bag. Replace the papers as needed.

• Regular Trash Removal: Take out the trash bag before it gets too full or starts to smell.

• Absorb Odors: Place newspaper sheets over wet garbage to absorb odors and moisture.

Doorknobs and Handles

Doorknobs and handles are frequently touched by multiple people, making them germ hotspots. To sanitize them:

1. Disinfecting: Spray a disinfectant onto a clean microfiber cloth.

2. Wiping: Wipe down all knobs and handles regularly to prevent the spread of germs.

Toothbrush Holders

Toothbrush holders can collect germs, especially in humid bathrooms. Clean them every 10 days as follows:

1. Rinsing: Rinse the holder with water.

2. Scrubbing: Use a sponge soaked in undiluted white vinegar to scrub the holder.

3. Drying: Rinse and dry the holder before using it again. For a pleasant smell, add a drop or two of essential oil to the vinegar.

Clothes Hamper/Basket

Dirty laundry hampers can harbor bacteria, which can spread to your clean clothes. Clean your hamper or basket monthly:

1. Cloth Hampers: Soak in a solution of water and laundry detergent for 15 minutes. Rinse and air dry.

2. Wicker or Plastic Baskets: Wipe down with a disinfectant and a clean cloth. Re-wipe with a damp cloth to remove any cleaner residue.

Bath Mats

Bath mats retain moisture, making them a breeding ground for bacteria. To keep them clean:

1. Drying: Hang bath mats out in the sun every 2-3 days to dry and kill germs.

2. Washing: Wash bath mats at least once a month.

3. Replacing: Replace bath mats every 3-4 months to maintain hygiene.

By addressing these often-overlooked areas, you can ensure a cleaner, healthier home environment.

Conclusion

By addressing these often-overlooked areas, you can ensure a cleaner, healthier home environment. Trash cans, in particular, are among the most unhygienic items but often the least cleaned. Following a regular deep-cleaning routine can significantly reduce bacteria and unpleasant odors.

Additionally, don't forget to regularly sanitize doorknobs and handles, clean toothbrush holders, disinfect clothes hampers, and maintain bath mats. Keeping these items clean will not only improve the overall hygiene of your home but also promote better health for you and your family.

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