Bathrooms are commonly regarded as one of the most unsanitary areas in a household. Due to frequent use and exposure to moisture, bacteria, and germs can proliferate and spread if not properly maintained. However, there’s no cause for alarm! By following a few simple steps from your professionals at Centerville Plumbing & Drain, you can effectively combat bathroom germs and uphold a clean and hygienic environment with our simple sanitary habits and hygiene practices.
The Most Germ-Infested Areas in Your Bathroom:
Before delving into some valuable tips, it is beneficial to understand the specific areas in your bathroom that are highly prone to germs. These areas are:
- The toilet seat and handle
- The sink faucet and handles
- Shower curtains and bath mats
- Towels and washcloths
- Countertops and surfaces, particularly around sinks
Having awareness of the locations of these hotspots can assist you in focusing your cleaning endeavors and mitigating the transmission of germs.
Types of Bacteria Found in Bathrooms:
Bathrooms can host a range of bacteria, varying in levels of harm. The most prevalent types discovered in bathrooms include:
- E. coli
- Staphylococcus
- Salmonella
- Influenza virus
- Norovirus
10 Eye-opening Tips to Keep Bathroom Germs at Bay:
Now that we have gained a more comprehensive comprehension of the potential germs present in our bathrooms, let us delve into ten beneficial strategies to effectively combat them.
- Wash Your Hands – Proper hand hygiene is paramount in preventing the spread of germs. Washing your hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds, as recommended by the CDC, is a highly effective measure. Remember to thoroughly scrub before rinsing off to maintain optimal cleanliness.
- Clean Your Bathroom – Ensuring regular cleaning of our bathrooms is a well-known necessity. To assist in maintaining a consistent cleaning routine and promoting a germ-free environment, consider allocating specific days in your weekly schedule for this task. Additionally, for convenience, keep a supply of antibacterial wipes readily available in the bathroom. These wipes can be used to efficiently clean surfaces as needed, effectively preventing the spread of germs and bacteria until the next scheduled cleaning.
- Keep Toothbrushes Covered – Toothbrushes also have the potential to harbor bacteria, including potentially harmful microorganisms, due to their placement in the bathroom environment. Factors such as proximity to the toilet, aerosolized particles during flushing, and contact with hands can contribute to bacterial contamination. However, the actual quantity and types of bacteria on a toothbrush can vary significantly. The best way to prevent this from happening is to make sure the bristles are covered, effectively preventing airborne bacteria from settling on them.
- Flush the Toilet with the Lid Closed – As mentioned previously, flushing the toilet with the lid open can lead to the dispersion of bacteria and germs within the bathroom. So, to avoid this try to develop the habit of consistently flushing the toilet with the lid closed.
- Install a Touchless Faucet – One of the most effective methods to mitigate the transmission of germs in your bathroom is by transitioning to hands-free fixtures, such as motion-sensor faucets and soap dispensers. By doing so, you can eliminate the necessity of physical contact with potentially contaminated surfaces, thus significantly reducing the risk of cross-contamination.
- Regular Disinfect Your Toilet Brush – The toilet brush is often overlooked when it comes to cleaning and disinfecting the bathroom, despite its significant role. Due to its purpose, it naturally harbors a substantial amount of bacteria. An excellent solution is to opt for toilet brushes with disposable ends that can be discarded after use. However, if this is not feasible for you, just aim to clean the brush thoroughly after each use. To complete this task, hold the toilet brush with the bristle end facing downwards into the toilet bowl. Pour a mixture of hot water and bleach over the bristle. Once done, prop the handle of the toilet brush between the toilet bowl and the seat lid, allowing it to air dry for at least five minutes before placing it back in its holder.
- Change Out Your Shower Curtain Regularly – The shower curtain is susceptible to bacteria and mold buildup due to constant exposure to moisture. It is advisable to replace the shower curtain every few months or opt for a washable fabric liner as an alternative to plastic.
- Install a Bidet – A bidet presents an exceptional alternative to conventional toilet paper, offering a more comprehensive cleansing experience while minimizing the risk of germ transmission through hand contact. They can be easily obtained online or at any local home improvement store. And as a bonus, they are not too hard to install.
- Ventilate Your Bathroom – Proper ventilation is crucial in preventing the growth and spread of germs in your bathroom. If you don’t have an exhaust fan, it is advisable to keep a window open while showering or bathing. Alternatively, you may also consider investing in a dehumidifier to reduce moisture in the air. Remember, moist environments provide optimal conditions for bacteria to thrive.
- Have Your Drains Cleaned – Household drains provide an ideal breeding ground for bacteria due to the accumulation of organic matter, soap scum, and debris. The types and quantities of bacteria in household drains vary based on factors like drain type, cleaning frequency, and overall hygiene practices. To proactively address this issue, homeowners should consider professional drain cleaning every 1-2 years. This helps prevent bacterial and mold buildup, as well as clogs and unwanted deposits, ensuring optimal functionality and longevity of the plumbing system. Give us a call for more information!
By incorporating these ten practical steps into your bathroom routine, you can effectively reduce the spread of germs and uphold a clean and hygienic environment for you and your family. It is important to note that maintaining proper bathroom hygiene is crucial for your health, the overall cleanliness of your home, and even the smooth operation of your plumbing system.
Call Centerville Plumbing & Drain today at (937) 240-0169 or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
