Germs are sneaky. They hide in places we touch every day without even thinking. As a general internist, I can tell you some of the dirtiest things you come in contact with might surprise you. And no, it’s not just toilet seats. Let’s take a little tour of the germiest stuff in your life, and what you can do about it — without needing a hazmat suit.
Let’s start with your cell phone. That little device goes everywhere — the kitchen, the gym, even the bathroom. Studies show your phone can be ten times dirtier than a toilet seat. Warmth from your hand and face makes it a cozy home for germs like E. coli, which can cause stomach cramps and diarrhea. We tap it, breathe on it, set it on who-knows-what surfaces. Want to keep your phone from turning into a bacteria farm? Clean it often with a wipe and definitely wash your hands after using the restroom — before grabbing your phone again.
Next up: the remote control. It’s the family favorite, and everybody touches it — even the kid who picks his nose and the dog who likes to sit on the couch. When it’s not in your hands, it’s on the floor or buried in the cushions. That’s a perfect hideout for mold and bacteria. A quick wipe-down once in a while with an antibacterial wipe goes a long way.
Now think about your keyboard. You probably eat lunch at your desk, type with dirty fingers, and maybe even sneeze or cough while working. Your cat may hop up on it, especially after visiting the litter box. Gross, right? Turn off the computer, shake out the crumbs, and clean the keyboard with rubbing alcohol on a cotton ball. You’ll feel better just looking at it.
Let’s head to the kitchen. The dish sponge is the dirtiest thing in your house — wetter than a rainstorm and full of food bits and bacteria. You can microwave or boil it to kill germs, but honestly, just toss it when it starts to smell. It’s not worth saving.
And the toothbrush holder? Believe it or not, it’s a top spot for bacteria. After you brush, water drips from your toothbrush into the holder. That moist little puddle is a dream come true for bacteria. Pop it in the dishwasher once in a while or give it a good scrub.
The office breakroom is a petri dish on its own. Microwave handles, fridge doors, sink faucets, vending machines — everyone touches them, and few people wash their hands first. That coffee maker you love? The tank might be harboring mold and yeast. Wash your hands before and after using appliances. Clean out the coffee pot with vinegar monthly.
Now, if you have a dog, you already know their toys are slobber magnets. Each chew adds moisture and bacteria. Wash rubber toys by hand or in the dishwasher. Toss fabric toys in the laundry. Your pup’s tail will wag just the same.
Cash might be king, but it’s also crawling with germs. Studies have found thousands of types of bacteria on dollar bills — including those from skin, food, and yes, even feces. It’s wise to wash up after handling money.
At the office, that coffee mug you never bring home? Big germ trap. It sits on a desk, gets cleaned with a questionable sponge, and often isn’t really clean at all. Bring it home and wash it properly in the dishwasher.
Let’s talk laundry. Just because something goes through the washer doesn’t mean it comes out clean. Viruses like rotavirus can survive a cycle. Wash underwear and towels on hot, use bleach if it’s safe, and dry thoroughly.
Purses and bags are another big one. You toss them on restroom floors, in your car, and on kitchen counters. Then you stick your hand in there — or your kid does. Wipe down the inside and outside regularly. Try to hang it up instead of dropping it wherever.
ATMs are touched by hundreds of people daily. Buttons are loaded with bacteria, and some even have food-related microbes from rotting meats or produce. Wash or sanitize your hands after grabbing cash.
Shopping carts? The handle is a bacterial buffet. Meat juices, dirty hands, and even bird droppings can end up there. Many stores now offer wipes at the cart station. Use them.
Soap dispensers sound safe, but refilling them before they’re empty can contaminate the soap itself. That means you could be washing with bacteria-laden soap. Wash thoroughly and dry with paper towels — air dryers can blast germs all over the room.
Kitchen towels are another offender. They dry your hands, your dishes, wipe up spills — even your kid’s face. Wash them often, especially if you’ve used them to clean raw meat spills. Bleach helps, and so does frequent laundering.
Finally, the birthday cake. Everyone blowing out candles is basically launching a germ parade. One study showed that this tradition increased bacteria on the cake surface by 1,400%. If you’re blowing out candles, maybe slice the cake first — or designate one slice for the blower.
The good news? You don’t need to become a germaphobe. Just be smart. Wash your hands often. Clean your stuff — especially the things you touch every day. Swap out your sponges. And maybe keep your dog’s toy out of your cereal bowl.
Germs are everywhere, but with a few simple habits, you can keep yourself — and your immune system — a step ahead.