When it comes to cleanliness and hygiene, most of us make an effort to keep our homes neat and tidy.

However, there are certain everyday objects that we often overlook when it comes to cleaning, and these objects can harbor a surprisingly large number of germs. In this article, we will highlight some of the most commonly neglected items in your home that can be breeding grounds for bacteria and viruses.

1. Kitchen sponge

Believe it or not, your kitchen sponge is one of the dirtiest objects in your entire home. It regularly comes into contact with food particles, grease, and moisture, providing the perfect environment for germs to multiply.

It is recommended to replace your kitchen sponge every two weeks and sanitize it regularly to prevent the spread of bacteria.

2. Cutting boards

Another frequently overlooked item is the cutting board. Even if you diligently wash it after each use, small grooves and scratches on the surface can harbor harmful bacteria such as Salmonella and E. coli.

To keep your cutting boards germ-free, use separate ones for raw meat and vegetables, and periodically sanitize them in hot soapy water.

3. Toothbrush holder

The toothbrush holder is often neglected during cleaning routines, but it can accumulate bacteria from the moisture and toothpaste residue left behind.

Make sure to regularly wash the toothbrush holder with hot soapy water to keep it germ-free and prevent the transfer of bacteria onto your toothbrush.

4. TV remote control

Think about how often you touch your TV remote control without washing your hands. Remote controls are rarely cleaned, making them hotbeds for germs.

To minimize the spread of bacteria and viruses, wipe down your remote control regularly with disinfectant wipes or a mild soap solution.

5. Computer keyboard

Keyboards are notorious for harboring germs, particularly if you eat or snack while using your computer. The gaps between the keys can accumulate crumbs and other debris, creating an ideal environment for bacteria to grow.

It is important to regularly clean your computer keyboard with compressed air and sanitizer to remove these hidden germs.

6. Mobile phones

Mobile phones go everywhere with us, including places where germs are found in abundance.

Studies have shown that mobile phones can harbor more bacteria than a toilet seat! It is advisable to regularly clean your phone with disinfectant wipes or a microfiber cloth dampened with an alcohol-based solution.

7. Bathroom towels

Bathroom towels are used to dry off after a shower or washing hands, but they can quickly become a breeding ground for bacteria due to the moisture they retain.

Wash your towels regularly on a high temperature setting to keep them germ-free and avoid the spread of harmful microbes.

8. Light switches

Light switches are often touched multiple times a day by various household members, but they are rarely included in cleaning routines. Disinfectant wipes can be used to quickly clean light switches and prevent the buildup of germs.

9. Reusable shopping bags

While reusable shopping bags are great for the environment, they can carry a host of bacteria from the items they transport.

Make sure to regularly wash your reusable shopping bags and avoid using them for items such as raw meat or vegetables that can potentially contaminate the bag.

10. Pet accessories

Don’t forget about your furry friends’ belongings! Items like pet bowls, toys, and even their bedding can harbor bacteria, especially if not cleaned regularly.

Wash pet bowls daily, clean their toys periodically, and regularly wash or replace their bedding to keep your pets’ belongings germ-free.