Ever Wondered About Those ‘Invisible’ Germs? The Real Deal on a Hygienic Home 

Ever Wondered About Those 'Invisible' Germs? The Real Deal on a Hygienic Home 

We all like a tidy-looking house, but how frequently do we address the unseen buildup of grime and bacteria? Experts share some eye-opening cleaning tips for everything from those fluffy towels to the phone you always have in hand. 

Bedding: Wash Weekly for Healthy Skin 

Here's one that might spark some debate! Hayley Leitch, who tackles seriously unhygienic homes on Channel 5's Dirty Home Rescue, strongly recommends washing your bedding every week. Sure, clean sheets feel amazing, but there's another reason: "Our bodies shed loads of skin cells every single day, and those are like a feast for dust mites," Leitch explains. "Leaving sheets unchanged lets these little critters flourish, potentially causing allergies or even rashes." She recommends a hot wash (60C) to really eliminate dust mites and harmful bacteria. 

Bath Towels: Don't Let Them Be Germ Magnets 

Used towels can quickly become breeding grounds for viruses, fungi, and all sorts of unpleasant bacteria. For the sake of hygiene, cleaning expert Laura Mountford advises swapping them out twice a week and washing them at least once weekly. "You can save energy by using a cooler wash cycle (around 30C)," she says. "For extra cleaning power that replaces a hot wash, add some laundry cleanser along with your normal detergent." Also, tossing used towels on a rack doesn't magically clean them. To keep them fluffy and fresh, Mountford suggests a splash of white vinegar in the fabric softener compartment of your washing machine. 

Toothbrushes: A Tiny Home for Big Germs 

Think about it - an average toothbrush teems with millions of bacteria! Just rinsing after each use isn't going to cut it. Mountford suggests giving your toothbrush a good cleaning at least once per week. "Soak it overnight in a cup of water with a dissolved denture tablet," she says. It's also wise to wash your toothbrush holder weekly – those can get pretty nasty with germs and mold. As for those electric toothbrush chargers, unplug them and give them a quick wipe down with a damp microfiber cloth (with a bit of dish soap on it) every week. 

Bins: Don't Ignore the Stench 

Uncleaned household bins are a hotbed for germs and can make your house smell truly unpleasant. Vaida Drungilaite, the owner of VIP Cleanings, recommends washing your bin inside and out at least once a month. "Put your bin in the shower and scrub away with hot water and some dishwashing liquid," she suggests. Once it's clean, let it drain upside-down and dry thoroughly with a microfiber towel. To keep odors in check between deep cleans, Drungilaite advises a weekly spritz of probiotic spray on the bin's exterior. "These 'good' bacteria help combat the smelly kind," she explains. 

Fridges: A Potential Danger Zone 

A grubby fridge is more than just gross – it can harbor over 1.8 million bacteria, a potential source of food poisoning and other nasty illnesses. "Give your fridge a quick wipe-down with food-safe disinfectant each week to keep bacteria from building up and to clean up any accidental spills," advises Mountford. She also recommends a more thorough monthly clean – take out the shelves and drawers and soak them in warm, soapy water. "Keep things smelling fresh by leaving a small, open jar of baking soda on the top shelf," she adds, remembering to replace that every three months or so. 

Toilets: Because Germs Love Bathrooms 

It won't shock you to hear that toilets are teeming with harmful bacteria. Cleaning expert Georgia Ward, known for her Instagram tips, suggests tackling your toilet 3 times weekly. "First, clear away any dust with toilet paper – it makes applying disinfectant so much more effective," says Ward. "Next, spray the entire toilet, including the handle, with antibacterial spray and let it work its magic for about five minutes." Finish by wiping everything from top to bottom with a microfiber cloth. For the bowl, you can go with a dedicated toilet cleaner or bleach," she says, adding that an overnight soak is great for really stubborn grime. 

Showerheads: Fight Limescale for Better Pressure 

If your water pressure seems weak, the culprit might be limescale buildup clogging your showerhead. To keep the water flowing strong, Drungilaite recommends a monthly cleaning for most people. She adds, "If several people share a shower, or you live in an area with hard water, cleaning it every other week is a better bet." Start by removing the showerhead and giving it a generous spritz with limescale remover. "I find lemon juice and salt just don't do the trick as well," says Drungilaite. "Wrap a paper towel soaked in the remover around the showerhead to keep it in contact and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, take a grout brush or hard sponge and scrub away the softened limescale. Stubborn buildup might need a few rounds of this." 

When Showerheads Stay Put 

If your showerhead can't be removed, don't worry! Spray it with limescale remover, then secure a plastic bag over it, tying it tightly. "After leaving it to soak for a bit, use a soft hand-held brush to gently loosen stubborn limescale," Drungilaite explains. "Give it a thorough rinse with clean water (you might want to just run the shower), and dry it completely with a clean cloth." 

Phone Screens: Grimy Messes You Carry Around 

It might make you cringe, but phone screens are often dirtier than a toilet seat! Sarah McAllister, the founder of home-education platform Go Clean Co, emphasizes that our constant touching makes them perfect breeding grounds for bacteria. For good hygiene, she recommends a weekly wipe-down with a microfiber cloth lightly spritzed with rubbing alcohol. 

Jeans: Wash Them, But Not Too Often 

Denim enthusiasts sometimes claim that jeans shouldn't be washed at all – that's not ideal for hygiene. Mountford suggests a middle ground: wash jeans after every four or five wears, but use special care to preserve their shape and color. "Start by turning them inside out and fastening any buttons and zippers to avoid snags. Use a cool, short cycle, and slow spin speed, and let them air dry," she says. She adds that a handheld steamer can freshen up and sanitize jeans between washes when needed. If you need to just get rid of a small smudge, Levi Strauss & Co themselves recommend spot-cleaning with a damp cloth, toothbrush, and a bit of mild soap. 

Bath Toys: Hidden Mold Danger 

Bath toys that never get cleaned properly turn into petri dishes for bacteria and mold. "Once a month, toss them in the dishwasher (in a mesh bag for safety)," suggests McAllister. "Steer clear of toys with holes that let water in – those become moldy messes on the inside." 

Keyboards: A Crumb-Filled Germ Fest 

Mountford recommends giving your keyboard a weekly cleaning session. "First, unplug your laptop or keyboard," she says. "Use a handheld vacuum's brush attachment to get rid of crumbs and dust before wiping everything down with a dry microfiber cloth." For a clean and streak-free computer screen, use a special screen-cleaning cloth (the kind for glasses works well). "Never spray anything directly onto the screen or keyboard – if your laptop gets sticky, spritz some glass cleaner onto a cloth first," she explains. 

Reusable Water Bottles: Don't Let Them Get Gross 

Recent studies show that twice as many germs lurk in reusable water bottles compared to a kitchen sink! "You should be washing these daily, or even after each use," says Natasha Blythe, a food hygiene expert at online training provider High Speed Training. "Hot, soapy water is your friend for a daily wash. If you use a dishwasher, be sure to handwash the smaller parts," Blythe adds. "Special attention is needed for built-in straws – those are prime places for bacteria to hide." Blythe recommends either a special bristle brush for straw cleaning or soaking the straw in hot water with a tablespoon of added vinegar. 

Wooden Floors: Vacuum First, Then Mop 

McAllister recommends vacuuming wooden floors every two to three days and mopping once a week. "Brooms just push dust around and kick up the smaller particles. I always vacuum thoroughly both before and after mopping, using hot water with just a tablespoon of laundry detergent added." The key is to get the floor damp, not soaked, so it dries quickly and doesn't damage the wood. 

Washing Machines: They Get Dirty Too! 

It seems a little strange, but washing machines do need regular cleaning themselves. Ward recommends a monthly clean to keep things fresh. "Remove and soak the detergent drawer in warm, soapy water, spraying it with mold remover if needed (otherwise, use antibacterial spray)," she says. For cleaning the rest of the machine, you can use dedicated washing machine cleaner or soda crystals. Make sure the filter at the bottom is debris-free and run a hot wash cycle. Importantly, Ward adds, "Always leave the door and detergent drawer open after each wash to prevent mold from taking hold." 

Curtains: Fighting Dust and Allergens 

Weekly vacuuming will help keep curtains dust-free, says Ward. "Use a soft bristle brush attachment to gently remove the surface dust," she explains. For deeper cleaning every three to six months, Ward suggests a pass with a steam cleaner to sanitize and remove odors without having to take the curtains down. "A fabric spray in between deeper cleans adds a bit of freshness," she adds. 

Rugs: More Than Meets the Eye 

Mountford recommends vacuuming rugs thoroughly once a week, remembering to flip them over and vacuum the underside as well. "Lint rollers are great for getting up stubborn pet hair and dust that gets deep in the pile," she notes. Deeper cleaning is needed about once a month. "Use carpet shampoo or even a bit of non-biological laundry detergent and gently scrub with a sponge," Mountford says. 

Light Switches and Door Handles: High-Traffic Germ Spots 

Our hands carry more germs than you might imagine – upwards of 3,000 different types! "In a busy household, door handles should be wiped down several times a week," says Blythe, a food hygiene expert. "For someone living alone, once a week or every two weeks is likely enough. The same goes for light switches." She suggests using antibacterial wipes or spray (used with a clean cloth), drying thoroughly afterward with a disposable cloth or paper towel. When cleaning light switches, Blythe cautions against excessive liquid to prevent it from seeping into the gaps. 

The Kitchen Sink: A Hidden Danger 

Kitchen sinks, even when they appear clean, can be some of the most germ-ridden places in the house. "Disinfect your sink daily, or even more often if used heavily or if you've handled raw meat," says Leitch. She starts with a hot water wash using a teaspoon of washing-up liquid and a thorough wipe-down of the entire sink. Next comes the disinfecting step: "Use disinfectant spray or dilute some bleach in cold water and wipe over everything. Finally, dry the sink with a clean cloth and add a bit of tea tree oil down the drains, or flush it through with hot water and baking soda." 

Oven: Tackle Grease Before It Builds Up 

Cleaning the oven is a dreaded task, but it becomes much harder when grease and burnt-on food have a chance to really bake themselves in. "A good approach is to give the oven a quick clean every time you use it," advises Ward. "While it's still a little warm (not burning hot!), a wipe with soapy water often does the trick." For heavy buildup, commercial oven cleaners are useful, but Ward also has a natural alternative: "Mix baking soda and a bit of water into a paste, spread it generously on the grease, leave it for several hours, and then scrub away." For very stubborn grime, she suggests leaving the paste on overnight. 

Microwave: Quick and Easy Cleaning 

Microwaves can get seriously splattered, but fortunately, cleaning them is often a breeze. "Fill a microwave-safe bowl with water and a few slices of lemon, then microwave it on high for a few minutes. The steam will loosen any stuck-on food," says McAllister. "Then, simply wipe down the interior with a microfiber cloth." For tougher messes, she suggests adding a spoonful of baking soda to the water before microwaving. 

Mattresses: More Than Just Changing Sheets 

For a truly clean bed, don't forget the mattress itself gets dirty over time. Mountford recommends sprinkling it with baking soda and leaving it for several hours before vacuuming to reduce odors and absorb moisture. Stains can be spot-cleaned with a paste of baking soda and water. "Finally, once a year, it's good to air out the mattress for a few hours, ideally outdoors, to really freshen it up." 

Pet bowls: Not Just About Leftover Kibble 

Bacteria thrive in leftover food and the slimy film that can build up in pet bowls. "They should be cleaned daily, just like your own dishes," says Drungilaite. "Hot, soapy water is usually enough, but if your pet drools a lot or eats raw food, then disinfecting with a pet-safe cleaner is advised." For a truly thorough clean, run pet bowls through the dishwasher regularly. 

Houseplants: Dust Catchers in Disguise 

We love our houseplants, but their leaves collect dust, potentially causing allergies or clogging the pores on the leaves (which they use to breathe!). Ward recommends a weekly dusting. "A soft, damp cloth usually does the trick. For larger, tougher leaves, a gentle rinse in the shower, followed by a shake to remove excess water, is refreshing," she says. For an extra shine, she suggests diluting a tiny bit of milk in with your water for wiping the leaves. 

Remote controls: Everyone Touches Them 

Let's be honest, remotes get passed around by everyone in the house and hardly ever get cleaned. "Wipe them down at least once a week with antibacterial wipes," says Blythe. She also stresses the importance of drying remotes after cleaning so that moisture doesn't seep inside. Take that extra minute to pop the batteries out and give the battery compartment a swipe too. 

Makeup brushes: A Breeding Ground for Bacteria 

If you use makeup brushes, you're essentially applying bacteria to your face every day if you don't clean them. McAllister suggests a weekly deep clean. "Soak them for a few minutes in a mix of warm water and a gentle shampoo, then rinse thoroughly and lay them flat on a clean towel to dry." For a quicker refresh between deep cleans, she suggests spritzing brushes with rubbing alcohol and allowing them to air dry completely. 

Hairbrushes: Not Just Loose Hair 

Hairbrushes collect more than just fallen hair – there's dust, dandruff, and product buildup to contend with! Aim for a cleaning session at least once a month. "Start by removing loose hair. Then soak the brush in warm water with a bit of shampoo for a few minutes. Use an old toothbrush to get rid of any stubborn gunk," says Drungilaite. Give it a final rinse and make sure it dries completely (a hairdryer on the cool setting speeds things up) to prevent mildew. 

Behind Appliances: Don't Just Ignore Them 

The areas behind large appliances like your fridge or stove are notorious dust and grime traps. While tackling them is a pain, it's worth doing at least a few times per year. "Before moving anything, always unplug for safety," cautions McAllister. "Use a vacuum cleaner with the long crevice attachment to get much of the dust, and then follow up with a damp microfiber cloth to clean those forgotten areas." 

Pillows: Sweat, Skin, and Dust Mites 

While pillowcases get washed with the sheets, the pillows themselves need attention too. Mountford recommends washing them every three to six months in the washing machine according to the care label. She adds a helpful tip: "Throw in a couple of tennis balls with your pillows in the dryer – they help fluff them up again." 

Upholstery: Refresh Beyond Vacuuming 

Regular vacuuming is a must, but deeper cleaning is needed for fresher furniture. "For removable cushion covers, follow the care instructions. Spot clean stains on non-removable upholstery with a solution of water and a bit of dish soap," suggests Mountford. She stresses testing any solution in a hidden spot first. Many couches can be freshened up with a sprinkle of baking soda left for a few hours and then vacuumed away. For thorough stain removal or overall cleaning, consider contacting professional upholstery cleaners. 

Children's Toys: Think of the Germs! 

Kids put toys in their mouths, drop them on the floor, and sometimes forget where they've been! Drungilaite emphasizes the importance of regular cleaning. "Hard plastic and wooden toys can generally go in the dishwasher on a low-heat setting, which is the easiest method," she says. A weekly wipe down with soapy water or antibacterial spray is important for toys that don't go in the dishwasher. "Always rinse well and allow toys to completely dry before letting children play with them again," she adds. 

Car Interiors: A Neglected Hotspot 

When we think 'cleaning', our car interiors often get overlooked, yet they can be surprisingly dirty. "Start by removing any visible trash, then vacuum thoroughly, remembering the seats, floorboards, and even the trunk," says Ward. She advises using the brush and crevice attachments for the best results. Once you've vacuumed, Ward suggests wiping down the dashboard and hard interior surfaces with a cleaning solution formulated for car interiors. "For upholstery stains, it's safest to use dedicated upholstery cleaner," she says. 

Inside Your Handbag: More Than Just Receipts 

Our handbags go everywhere with us, picking up plenty of unwanted grime and germs in the process. Drungilaite recommends giving them a monthly clean. "Take everything out first, and if possible, turn it inside out and shake to get rid of any crumbs. Many fabric bags can go in the washing machine on a gentle cycle," she says. Leather bags, however, require a more delicate touch. "Wipe them down with a mix of warm water and a small bit of gentle soap, then dry thoroughly." 

Yoga Mats: Sweaty Messes Need Attention 

After a great yoga session, give your mat a few minutes of attention to keep it fresh. "Wipe it down with a dedicated yoga mat cleaner, or make your own with a mix of water, white vinegar, and a few drops of your favorite essential oil," suggests McAllister. "Hang it up to dry completely after each use to prevent mold." For a monthly deeper clean, she recommends soaking the mat for a few minutes in a tub of warm water mixed with a bit of gentle detergent, followed by a thorough rinse and air drying. 

Reusable Shopping Bags: Think Beyond the Groceries 

While they cut down on plastic waste, reusable shopping bags need to be washed regularly. "After all, you might put them on kitchen counters or toss raw meat packages in them," Blythe points out. She suggests washing them at least once a month, or more often if frequently used for meat, fresh produce, or if something spills inside them. Most fabric bags can be machine-washed, but always check the care label. 

Drains: Stopping Clogs and Stenches 

Keeping your drains free-flowing and odor-free is more than just a comfort issue – it can help prevent expensive plumbing problems. "Baking soda and vinegar are your friends here," says Leitch. "Once a week, pour a generous amount of baking soda down the drain, followed by a cup of white vinegar. Let it fizz up for a few minutes, then flush thoroughly with hot water." For stubborn clogs, Leitch recommends getting a specialist drain cleaning product from the hardware store. 

Duvets and Comforters: Freshening Up Your Sleep 

For bulky comforters and duvets, aim to clean them a few times a year. "Check the labels, as some are machine washable, but many require either professional cleaning or a large commercial washing machine," says Mountford. She has a helpful trick for keeping them fresher between washes: "On a sunny day, hang your duvet outdoors for a few hours. The sunlight helps kill bacteria and gives it a wonderful fresh scent." 

Pots and Pans: Don't Neglect the Bottoms! 

While everyone focuses on the insides of pots and pans, the outer surfaces, especially the bottoms, need attention too. Scorch marks might seem harmless, but they hinder even heating on the stovetop. Drungilaite recommends a gentle scrub with baking soda and a stainless steel scourer to tackle even stubborn discoloration. 

Recycling Bins: Messes Happen 

Empty your recycling bins regularly, and give them a good spray-down with disinfectant after each emptying. This prevents sticky spills and bad odors. For extra freshness, let the bin fully air dry before putting a fresh liner in. 

The Importance of Clean Hands 

No matter how diligently you clean, your efforts are wasted without the most basic hygiene habit: Handwashing! Blythe emphasizes, "Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after using the toilet, before handling food, and after touching anything that could be contaminated, like raw meat packaging or your pet's food bowl."