While our immune systems are fighting their own battle to protect us, some “evil” germs have learned to hide where we don’t expect them. Find out what hidden spots in your kitchen these attackers might be.
Places in your kitchen full of germs
According to the Society for General Microbiology, some bacteria divide every 20 minutes at the right temperatures and with the right nutrients.
A 2016 study of the most contaminated objects in the home also found more than 340 different bacteria on 30 different objects.
The following are just a few of the places in our kitchen that are often full of germs.
1. Salt and pepper
The University of Virginia surveyed more than 200 people to find out where most of the germs live in our homes. About 20 people were diagnosed with rhinovirus (the common cold) and when asked which of the 10 surfaces they touch most often, of the 160 in the questionnaire, nearly 100% responded positively to salt and pepper.
2. Sink siphon
It is the place where hot water and soap theoretically constantly pass through and we all think that it is the cleanest in the kitchen. In fact, the siphon is one of the most dangerous parts. Moisture and leftover food create the right environment for bacteria to multiply.
To eliminate siphon odors and break down fats so they don’t become a source of germs, frequently add a solution of 1/2 cup baking soda and 1/2 cup vinegar. You will disinfect this part of the sink economically and ecologically. If your sink is clogged, you can try this solution.
3. Handles and switches
Countertops, handles, and light switches are some less obvious places for germs.
While many people assume that the bathroom doorknob would be the dirtiest, the NSF found other places that had a higher bacteria rating, including:
- bathroom light switches;
- refrigerator handles;
- stove knobs;
- microwave handles.
You can clean these stains two to three times a week with disinfectant wipes. This will also kill any SARS-CoV-2 that may be left on plastic or steel surfaces like these.
4. Dishwasher
Who would have expected that the place where we wash dishes is also the most common place that mold and mildew hide. Check for mold around the door seals. If you don’t clean it on time, every time you think you’re doing the dishes, germs will stick to them and multiply.
The same solution of baking soda with vinegar is ideal for the dishwasher. Use warm water to wipe down the hoses and the baking soda solution to disinfect the washing machine pipes.
5. Carpets
Think of rugs as one big dust bin. Even if you clean them very often, tiny particles and dead cells get trapped in them. So don’t wait to see the dust on them to clean them. In any case, most of these germs are trapped deep within it. In addition to the vacuum cleaner, use warm water and vinegar and clean its surface with a soft brush to remove as many germs as you can.