I am a bit of a reformed germaphobe. When it came to germs I was a good old American girl, proud of my bleach stock and ready to combat imminent death with every wipe. I have relaxed a bit but still find useful articles like this by Elizabeth Scott, Ph.D., a microbiologist and a codirector of the Center for Hygiene and Health in Home and Community at Simmons College, in Boston. Real Simple Magazine lists Dr. Scott's top bacterial offenders. Now we should all know by now that the best way to combat the spreading germs is by simple handwashing and in our busy lives people still forget to do this. I know it is gross and these places listed below are worth an extra look as well.1. Doorknobs
What we do:
Wipe them down a couple of times a week especially if you have children. Ever touch that knob and your hand comes back sticky? "That's gross,"as my 6 year old says. Wipe the door handles before you need to wipe your own hands.
2. Kitchen Sponges
What we do:
We don't use them. Use cloths in your home instead. Paper towels are biodegradable but at the rate we use them it is overwhelming the earth.
3. Drain & Kitchen Faucet
What we do:
As Dr. Scott suggested in her article, we put baking soda in the drain and let sit before pouring boiling water into and all around faucet and handle.
4. Dog Bowl
What we do:
Though we are currently sans fido, we could have benefited from Dr. Scott's advice here. She suggests washing every use. Seem a bit extreme? Well let's go in the middle with a good weekly wash in the dishwasher. Choose a cleanser with less detergents if are worried about your pretty pooch's intake.
5. Computer Keyboard
What we do:
We live on our laptops so we use compressed air and alcohol to clean our keyboards and bits. You would be surprised at what lies underneath those keys so grab a can, insert the skinny stick and blow out the mess. (Please read can for best use directions). Alcohol on a cloth can work wonders and harsh cleansers will ruin your system so clean with caution.