Surprising Germ Magnets: Everyday Items That Harbor More Bacteria Than You Think

When we think of germ-infested places, public restrooms and garbage bins usually top the list. But surprise! Some of the biggest bacteria parties are happening right under your nose—on everyday items you touch without a second thought. In fact, some of these things are so filthy, they make a toilet seat look like it just walked out of a spa day. Get ready to rethink everything you know about cleanliness!

1. Your Smartphone

Your phone goes everywhere with you - your bed, your car, even the bathroom. Studies show that smartphones can carry 10 times more bacteria than a toilet seat. Between constant handling, heat from the device, and infrequent cleaning, it's a perfect breeding ground for bacteria.

How to Keep It Clean:

• Wipe your phone daily with a microfiber cloth and a 70% isopropyl alcohol wipe. 
• Avoid using your phone in the bathroom.

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2. Kitchen Sponges

Think your toilet is dirty? A used kitchen sponge can harbor more bacteria than any other surface in your home including E. coli and Salmonella. Sponges stay damp, creating an ideal environment for bacteria to thrive.

How to Keep It Clean:

• Replace your sponge every one to two weeks. 
• Disinfect it daily by microwaving it damp for one minute or soaking it in diluted bleach.

3. Reusable Shopping Bags

Eco-friendly? Yes. Germ-free? Not even close. Most people never wash their reusable bags, meaning they can accumulate bacteria from raw meats, dirty produce, and unwashed hands.

How to Keep It Clean:

• Wash fabric bags in hot water weekly.
• Use separate bags for raw meat, produce, and other groceries.

4. Remote Controls

Whether in a hotel room or at home, remote controls are one of the most frequently touched (and least cleaned) items. Studies have found high levels of bacteria, including cold and flu viruses, on remotes.

How to Keep It Clean:

• Wipe remotes regularly with disinfectant wipes.
• Avoid eating while using them to prevent spreading germs.

5. Coffee Maker Reservoirs

The water reservoir in your coffee maker is a moist, warm environment ideal for mold and bacteria growth. Many people neglect to clean this part of the machine, leading to a buildup of harmful microbes.

How to Keep It Clean:

• Clean the reservoir with vinegar and water at least once a month or use the cleaner below, works great too.
• Let all parts dry thoroughly before reassembling.

6. Handbags and Backpacks

These bags touch countless surfaces from the floor of public restrooms to restaurant tables. The bottoms, zippers, and straps are often crawling with bacteria and viruses.

How to Keep It Clean:

• Wipe down leather or synthetic bags with disinfectant wipes.
• Wash fabric bags regularly in the washing machine.

7. ATM and Elevator Buttons

Think about how many people press those buttons daily! A study found that elevator buttons can have more bacteria than public toilet seats.

How to Keep It Clean:

• Use a knuckle or pen to press buttons when possible.
• Sanitize hands after using ATMs or elevators.

8. Toothbrush Holders

Toothbrush holders sit in a damp bathroom environment, collecting water splashes and bacteria from the air (yes, even from toilet flushes).

How to Keep It Clean:

• Wash and disinfect the holder weekly.
• Store toothbrushes in an upright position and allow them to air dry.

Final Thoughts

While it's impossible to avoid germs entirely, being mindful of these hidden germ magnets can help reduce your risk of illness. Regular cleaning and disinfecting of these everyday items can go a long way in keeping you and your family healthier.

Did any of these surprise you? Which one do you think is the worst offender? Let us know in the comments!

Keep it sassy,

Kelly

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