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Coronavirus is definitely still on everyone's minds. As a result, people are a lot more conscious and diligent about cleaning and disinfecting high-touch surfaces, like countertops, doorknobs, cell phones, and computers. But there are other household items that you regularly use, which you probably don't disinfect. That's why you should be sure to clean these nine germy things on the reg:
1. Remote controls
Remote controls are actually considered one of the dirtiest items in a hotel room. That's because it gets passed from person to person and rarely gets cleaned. To clean your remote control, remove the batteries and disinfect using a cloth dampened with 70 percent isopropyl alcohol. Pay special attention to the spaces between buttons.
2. Appliances
How often do you disinfect your refrigerator, dishwasher, coffeemaker, and oven door handles? Probably not as often as you should! To clean, first, wipe away any grease or grime using soapy water and then follow with a disinfectant spray or wipe.
3. Light switches
You touch light switches constantly day and night, so be sure to clean them at least once a day. To use, use a damp cloth to wipe off any dust and then follow up with a cotton ball soaked in 70 percent isopropyl alcohol. Swab all sides of the switch and backplate.
4. Credit cards
You probably use your credit card almost every day, and it gets handled by a lot of people. Germs can hide in the crevices around the numbers. To clean, wipe down your credit card with an alcohol wipe and allow to dry.
5. Electric toothbrush
While you should replace your toothbrush every three months, you shouldn't forget to clean the area around your toothbrush, too. To clean your toothbrush holder, wash it with warm soapy water, then rinse and dry. To sanitize your toothbrush, soak the bristles in hydrogen peroxide for several minutes.
6. Can opener
Did you know that food residue lingers on can openers, creating a breeding ground for germs? This can transfer to the food the next time you open a can. To clean, wash the can opener in hot soapy water. For electric can openers, pop off the blades first and then wash them.
7. House and car keys
Your house and car keys literally go everywhere with you, from your purse to pockets and beyond. To clean, use a disinfecting wipe to go over individual keys and the fob. Then use a toothpick to work it into the grooves.
8. Banisters
Every time someone goes up and down the stairs, they touch wooden banisters and metal railings. Use Clorox wipes to disinfect finished wood.
9. Kitchen trash can
How often do you actually disinfect your kitchen trash can? To clean, use warm soapy water, then rinse and dry it with a paper towel. Once dry, thoroughly spray all sides of the can with a disinfecting spray and allow it to dry.
References
- "14 Germy Things You Should Never Forget to Clean," Good Housekeeping, March 23, 2020.
