5 everyday items to clean or replace immediately
(BPT) – Back-to-school is a time for updating your routine and starting anew. You shop for school supplies and clothes, but what else can you do to start out on a fresh foot? Everyday items like cell phones, keyboards and remote controls build up even more bacteria than a public restroom, yet rarely get cleaned. Here are some objects in your home that may be dirtier than you think. As you head back to school, work these common items into your regular cleaning regimen.
1. Cell phones
Did you know that your cell phone has 18 times more bacteria than the surfaces in a restroom? Throughout the day, you shake hands, handle money, share phones and touch countless other objects. Whatever touches your hands, then touches your phone. Use a mixture of water and rubbing alcohol with cotton swabs or a soft cloth to gently clean your phone of unwanted bacteria on a regular basis.
2. Bath sponge
Bacteria thrives in dark, warm places, like showers and bathtubs. Dermatologists recommend replacing bath sponges every three to four weeks. It’s a good idea to use one with antimicrobial properties, like the Body Benefits by Body Image Fresh Bath Sponge, which helps prevent the growth of stain and odor-causing bacteria, keeping the sponge cleaner and fresher. A bonus is that the sponge comes in a sealed package so germs are not transferred from hands to the product while on store shelves.
3. Keyboard
You have plenty of bacteria right at your fingertips. The crevices between keys are perfect homes for potentially harmful bacteria and microbes. Personal keyboards should be cleaned once a month, while commonly used keyboards need to be cleaned at least once a week.
4. TV remote
It’s sitting right in front of you on your coffee table, but the truth is you almost never think to clean your TV remote. Remote controls have more bacteria growing on them than door handles, toilet seats and sink handles, according to a University of Arizona study. Use a lintless cloth and some rubbing alcohol to clean the surface and between the buttons weekly.
5. Bed sheets and pillow cases
If not properly cared for, bed sheets can be breeding grounds for mold and bacteria, causing clogged pores, acne and blemishes. As a rule of thumb, you should wash your bed sheets at least every other week and your pillowcases every week. Besides, who doesn’t love sinking into fresh smelling, clean sheets?
To learn more about staying fresh and clean, visit: bodybenefitsbath.com.