How to keep your house clean and germ free

As simple as it sounds, good hygiene can prevent serious illnesses and diseases, and keep you safe.

Helping, a cleaning service centered in Dubai, examines the tricky spots in your home and how to keep them clean.

Kitchen sink

The kitchen sink could possibly be one of the dirtiest parts. It's important to disinfect kitchen sinks, but most people tend to rinse with water and soap only.

Food particles from plates left to soak or rinsed from dishes can serve as a breeding ground for illness-causing bacteria, including E. coli and salmonella. These can spread on hands or food.

Hence, it's important to sanitize the kitchen with a solution of bleach and water or isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol). This will help prevent the spread of bacteria.

Toothbrush

You use your toothbrush twice a day and rinse it after every use, keeping it damp.

Bacterial thrives on moist surfaces. Germs can easily reach your toothbrush, whether from your mouth or the air.

In addition, every time you flush the toilet, bacteria- and virus-contaminated water droplets are sent into the air. These germs, can float around in the bathroom for at least two hours after each flush before landing on surfaces, including your toothbrush.

So, it's crucial to close the toilet lid before flushing, and place your toothbrush in an area where it can air and dry, not too close to the toilet.

Also, replace your toothbrush regularly, especially after you’ve been ill.

TV remote control

The TV remote control is probably the most touched and shared item in the house. It’s dropped on the floor, stuffed between the sofa cushions, coughed on and sneezed at.

Everyone in the house touches it. Studies have shown that the remote control’s surface is among the ‘germiest’ in the house.

As recommended with all surfaces, wipe the remote control with a bleach or alcohol wipe, and wash your hands regularly to protect yourself against germs

Computer keyboard

You probably eat at your computer, sneeze, cough and allow for others to use it. Computer keyboards could be a health hazard. Researchers found keyboards can be contaminated with a number of potentially harmful bacteria such as E. coli and Staph.

Always wash your hands before and after using your computer. And, if you eat or drink at your computer, ensure that you wipe the surface with bleach or alcohol wipes. Don’t forget to wipe the mouse as well.

There are basic measures you can take to protect your family and yourself from diseases that could spread in your home.

More tips on how to shield yourself from germs

Wash your hands regularly with water and soap. Make sure to scrub your hands for no less than 20 seconds. Don't forget the areas between your fingers and under your nails.

Avoid touching your face, eyes and mouth after you’ve been touching objects in public places.

Close the bathroom lid before flushing, always!

Use hand sanitizer if there aren’t any washing facilities nearby.

(Image: Shutterstock)