The most germ infested spots in your house you need to clean
Did you know that aside from your toilet bowl, kitchen counter, and pet cage, there are other germ-infested spots and things inside your home – such as makeup, yoga mat, and headphones? It is crucial to keep these things clean and dirt-free to have a healthy body and prevent sickness.
“Contact with dirty everyday items such as mobile phones, kitchen sponges, and sinks increase your risk of having illness-causing bacteria such as Salmonella, E. coli, and Staphylococcus and influenza virus, which might cause diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps,” says MediCard President Dr. Nicky Montoya.
Here are some of the most germ-infested places and personal belongings that you must clean:
Dish sponge
The irony here is that sponges are supposed to ‘clean’ dishes and countertops, yet they are the dirtiest thing in most homes. According to a study, 77% harbored coliform bacteria, 86% contained yeast and mold, and 18% had staph bacteria.
To disinfect a sponge, soak it in water then heat it in the microwave for one to two minutes, or pour boiling water over it. It is also best to replace your dish sponge every two weeks.
Kitchen sink
Did you know that the kitchen sink is dirtier than most bathrooms? It typically has more than 500,000 bacteria per square inch in the drain. Clean your sink with an antibacterial product after preparing or cleansing food such as raw meat, fruits, and vegetables.
Headphones
Using headphones or earphones for one hour has been shown to coat them with bacteria from the ear and increase the germ level in your ears by nearly 700 times.
Keep your earphones dirt-free by simply cleaning your earbuds using a soap solution or replacing detachable silicone covers.
Makeup and makeup brushes
Imagine putting on grimy makeup and brushes on your face. Numerous studies found that approximately half of all makeup brushes and mascara tubes are harboring germs.
Make sure to keep and use makeup for about 6 months maximum and clean brushes frequently using a disinfectant cleaner.
Yoga mat
Practicing yoga is a relief for those who want to relax and calm their mind and body. However, yoga mats, especially communal ones, harbor sweat and microbes that can linger for days if unwashed. It is best to invest in a yoga towel to keep sweat off the mat itself or occasionally scrub mats with a bit of dish soap and water.
Cell phone
Cellular phones have been considered a necessity for people. But did you know that mobile phones are one of the risk factors for infection?
According to a study, 1 in 6 cell phones is contaminated with fecal matter. That is why it is advised to shut down your device once a week and clean or wipe it with a disinfectant cloth.
Awareness of the dirty spots inside and outside your home and getting check-ups are important in preventing diseases.
MediCard has 13 free-standing clinics located in key cities nationwide that offer consultations, diagnostic tests and specialty medical services.
Visit a MediCard clinic near you or check out their website at www.medicardphils.com for more information.
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