In a home where "cleanliness is half the battle," bacteria often lurk in the corners we overlook. And no, it's not just under the couch and behind the toilet bowl—it's in more insidious, everyday places you'd never think of.
If bacteria could talk, they'd probably brag about how carefree they live on your remote, doorknobs, or cell phone. While we mop the floors, wash the windows, and almost religiously clean the kitchen counter, some microscopic hiding places in the home remain completely untouched. And that's where these little rascals like to hang out.
Below, we reveal 8 places in your home that you may use regularly – but have clearly forgotten to introduce to your cleaning routine.
1. Switches, handles and knobs – VIP access for germs
Our hands are like the city's traffic hub for germs - everything goes through them. From the doorknob on the front door to the light switch in the bathroom, all these touches become hot spots for bacterial feasting. The solution? Regular disinfection with spray or wipes - so that the handles breathe again without microbial domination.
2. Refrigerator vent – dusty paradise behind
There's more to your refrigerator than just lost magnets and old bills. The vents are often clogged with dust, hair, and, if you're lucky (or unlucky), a bit of mold. Not only does this put a strain on the refrigerator's performance, but it also affects the air quality in your kitchen. The solution? Move the thing aside, grab a vacuum cleaner, and show them who's boss.
3. Mobile phones and keyboards – a digital colony of microbes
If we had a microscope built into our eyes, we would probably stop using our phones. These devices are real homes for bacteria – warm, greasy and always at hand. Studies show that they have more bacteria on them than the average toilet seat. Just imagine how many selfies you’ve taken with a “microbial colony”! The solution? Alcohol wipes or a microfiber cloth with disinfectant. Regularly.
4. Dishwasher – cleaning that needs cleaning
The paradox of the century: the machine that is supposed to clean needs cleaning itself. The humid and warm environment inside the dishwasher is like an all-inclusive resort for bacteria and mold. When food residue or grease gets in the way, a festival of smells begins. The solution? Make the filters your friends. Clean them regularly, add a cycle with a high-temperature cleaner and wipe the seals. The machine will thank you – and so will your dishes.
5. The remote control – king of the couch, but also of bacteria
We pass the remote like an Olympic relay, often with greasy fingers, without a thought for hygiene. Meanwhile, crumbs, grease and… you can imagine the rest accumulate in the gaps between the buttons. The solution? A quick wipe with an alcohol wipe or a slightly damp cloth with a mild disinfectant. But don't panic – don't drown it.
6. Trash can – clean outside, science fiction inside
You probably empty it regularly, but when was the last time you gave it a thorough cleaning inside? The inside of your bin, especially around the lid and edges, is a haven for bacteria that love food scraps and moisture. The solution? Wash it at least once a week with hot water and disinfectant. It's not glamorous, but it's necessary.
7. Shower curtains – the silent saboteur of bathroom hygiene
Shower curtains are often wet, damp and… forgotten. And that’s exactly what makes them a recipe for mold. If they’re plastic, you can just toss them in the washing machine with a few towels to help scrub. If they’re fabric, the same goes. Add vinegar or baking soda for a natural antibacterial effect. Or, change your curtain more often than your Facebook status.
8. Sponges and rags – the paradox of cleanliness
We know, irony at its best – the objects we use to clean are often the dirtiest. Dishwashing sponges are like microbiological farms. Wet, porous and always in action. The solution? Change them often. You can throw sponges in the microwave for a few minutes (wet!) or wash them in the washing machine. Cloths? They should go into a 60°C wash regularly.
Cleanliness is not just what we see
Don’t let the shiny floors and fragrant spaces fool you—the real bacteria fun is happening behind the scenes. Take a day to “secretly clean” your spaces so they’re truly clean—not just looking clean. And hey, if you’re investing in a clean home, make sure your secret nooks and crannies are part of that vision, too.
