Bathrooms are often considered to be one of the dirtiest places in a home. With frequent use and exposure to moisture, bacteria, and microbes, germs can easily thrive and spread if not properly taken care of. But fear not! With a few simple hygiene practices and improved sanitary habits, these tips from your Beavercreek Plumbing & Drain professionals can easily help you keep bathroom germs at bay and maintain a clean and hygienic space.
The Germiest Areas in Your Bathroom:
Before we dive into some tips, it’s helpful to know which areas in your bathroom are the most susceptible to germs. These include:
- The toilet seat and handle
- The sink faucet and handles
- Shower curtains and bath mats
- Towels and washcloths
- Countertops and surfaces, especially around sinks
Knowing where these hotspots are can help you target your cleaning efforts and prevent the spread of germs.
Types of Bacteria Found in Bathrooms:
Bathrooms can harbor a variety of bacteria, some more harmful than others. The most common types found in bathrooms include:
- E. coli
- Staphylococcus
- Salmonella
- Influenza virus
- Norovirus
10 Eye-opening Tips to Keep Bathroom Germs at Bay
Now that we have a better understanding of the potential germs lurking in our bathrooms, let’s explore ten helpful tips to keep them at bay.
- Wash Your Hands Thoroughly – This may seem like a no-brainer and not really all that eye-opening, but it’s worth mentioning. Washing your hands with soap and warm water is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of germs. So, make sure to scrub for at least 20 seconds before rinsing off (as recommended by the CDC.)
- Clean Your Bathroom Regularly – This next one is also another rather obvious point. We all know our bathrooms need to be cleaned on the regular, but to help you stay on top of your cleaning routine and keep those germs away, try blocking out a specific day (or two) from your weekly schedule to help you stay on track. In addition, for quick and easy disinfecting, keep a pack of antibacterial wipes in your bathroom and use them to wipe down surfaces as needed. This will help prevent the spread of germs and bacteria and keep the area clean until your next scheduled cleaning.
- Keep Toothbrushes Covered – Toothbrushes can harbor bacteria, such as potentially harmful microorganisms, due to their location in the bathroom environment. Factors such as proximity to the toilet, aerosolized particles when flushing, and contact with hands can contribute to bacterial contamination. However, the actual amount and types of bacteria on a toothbrush can greatly vary. Storing your toothbrush in a holder that covers the bristles is the best option, as this will prevent any airborne bacteria from landing on them.
- Flush the Toilet with the Lid Closed – As mentioned earlier, flushing the toilet with the lid open can spread bacteria and germs throughout the bathroom. So, if you don’t already, it’s time to start getting into the habit of flushing your toilet with the lid closed every time.
- Install a Touchless Faucet – One of the best ways to prevent the spread of germs in your bathroom is by switching to hands-free fixtures, such as motion-sensor faucets and soap dispensers. These eliminate the need for touching surfaces that may be harboring germs and can significantly reduce the risk of cross-contamination.
- Regularly Disinfect Your Toilet Brush – The toilet brush is one of the most overlooked items for cleaning and disinfecting in the bathroom. Naturally, it carries a ton of bacteria due to its purpose. A good option is to use toilet brushes that have disposable ends you can throw in the trash after use. But if that is not an option for you, make sure to clean it after every use. Do this by holding the toilet brush with the bristle end over the toilet, then pouring hot water and bleach over the bristle. After doing so, prop the toilet brush handle between the toilet bowl and seat lid (to hold it up), and let it air dry for at least five minutes before putting it back in the holder.
- Change Out Your Shower Curtain Regularly – Your shower curtain is another item that can easily harbor bacteria and mold due to its exposure to moisture. Make sure to change your shower curtain every few months, or consider using a washable fabric liner instead of a plastic one.
- Install a Bidet – A bidet is an excellent alternative to traditional toilet paper, as it allows for a more thorough cleaning and reduces the risk of spreading germs 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 critical to preventing the growth and spread of germs in your bathroom. If you don’t have an exhaust fan, consider leaving a window open when showering or bathing, or invest in a dehumidifier to reduce moisture in the air. Remember, moist environments are the perfect breeding grounds for bacteria to thrive.
- Have Your Drains Cleaned – Household drains are the perfect place for bacteria to grow due to the accumulation of organic matter, soap scum, and other debris that can serve as a breeding ground for microorganisms. The specific amount and types of bacteria in household drains can vary widely based on factors such as the type of drain, the frequency of cleaning, and the overall hygiene practices in the home. To stay ahead of this, homeowners should have their drains professionally cleaned every 1-2 years to prevent bacteria and mold buildup. Doing so also helps to prevent clogs and unwanted buildup, ultimately helping to keep your plumbing system running in tip-top shape for as long as possible. Feel free to give us a call for more information!
By implementing these ten helpful steps into your bathroom routine, you can easily keep germs at bay and maintain a clean and hygienic space for you and your family. Remember, maintaining good bathroom hygiene is essential for your health, the overall cleanliness of your home, and even an efficiently running plumbing system.
Call Beavercreek Plumbing & Drain for all your plumbing problems today at (937) 404-6575, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!