Emily Flores
Your home might sparkle on the surface, but hidden grime builds up in the most unexpected places. These messes hide in plain sight, quietly collecting bacteria, dust, and gunk over time. And unless you’re scrubbing beyond the usual suspects, things can get gross fast. It’s time to reveal the sneakiest spots you probably forgot to clean.
Your Toothbrush Holder
According to a report by the Berkshire Dental Group, toothbrush holders top the list of germiest bathroom items. It’s moist, dark, and close to the sink, a.k.a. the ideal breeding ground for mold and bacteria. So, soak it in hot, soapy water once a week, and make sure to scrub away the gunk that tends to collect at the bottom.
The Bottom Of Your Handbag
You set it on restaurant floors, sidewalks, dog parks, and even bathroom counters. Needless to say, it has picked up a few germs on the way. In fact, the underside of your purse could be dirtier than a toilet seat. Wipe it with disinfecting wipes frequently, and check for crumbs inside while you’re at it.
Light Switches And Doorknobs
You touch them multiple times a day, but when’s the last time you cleaned them? You can use a disinfectant wipe weekly, especially during cold and flu season, and don’t forget to clean the ones in less frequently used rooms, such as closets or basements. These high-contact surfaces are prime locations for the spread of germs.
Reusable Grocery Bags
You fill them with raw meat, produce, and packaged goods, then shove them in a trunk or closet. Unfortunately, these bags can harbor harmful bacteria, such as E. coli, among others. Yet most people never wash them. For fabric bags, toss them in the laundry at least once a week, and wipe down plastic ones regularly.
TV Remotes
TV remotes pick up grime easily, slipping into couch cushions or sitting under snack bowls. They’re touched often but cleaned rarely. To disinfect them properly, use a cotton swab and rubbing alcohol to reach into crevices and remove the germs that collect with every swipe, press, or popcorn-covered finger.
Shower Curtains And Liners
Mold and mildew thrive in the folds of shower curtains, as they are continuously exposed to moisture without drying completely. Not to mention, they may also accumulate soap scum, yet they’re usually ignored. It’s better to wash fabric curtains on a gentle cycle and replace plastic liners when they show signs of buildup.
Behind The Toilet Base
You mop around it, but have you checked behind it? The base of the toilet attracts dust, hair, and worse, becoming a hidden hotspot for grime. A quick scrub with a disinfectant helps prevent odors and buildup. Plus, it keeps your bathroom fresher and far more sanitary with just a little extra effort.
Kitchen Sponge Holder Or Tray
Ironically, the place where your sponge lives is usually dirtier than the sponge itself. As the water drips and food scraps accumulate, mold begins to form on the surface of your sponge. That’s why you must wash or replace the tray weekly. Better yet, ditch the tray altogether and use a stand-up sponge holder with automatic drainage.
Ceiling Fans
Out of sight and out of mind, until you flip the switch and a cloud of dust rains down. Fan blades gather grime quickly, especially in bedrooms and kitchens where air and particles circulate most. Slip a pillowcase over each blade to trap the dust while wiping. Clean them every few weeks, even if they are rarely used.
Inside Your Washing Machine
Washing machines aren’t as clean as they seem. Regularly wiping the rubber seal and doing a vinegar-baking soda cycle monthly can help. Otherwise, detergent buildup and stuck lint can turn your washer into a perfect breeding zone for mold and bacteria.