15 Places Where Germs Can Be Found

Think about all the things you touch multiple times a day – doorknobs, sinks, cabinet handles. The list goes on. We’re all practicing social distancing right now and not only do you need to be cautious when you’re out grabbing lunch or picking up groceries, you also need to be cautious about the germs you bring home.

Washing your hands is one of the best steps you can take but virus germs and other bacteria can still cling to surfaces.  Understanding where germs are hiding is crucial to stay healthy. Make sure you sanitize these hidden places where virus germs and other bacteria can be found:

1. Kitchen Tools

Did you know that kitchen sinks hold more germs than bathrooms sinks? As one of the busiest places in the home, it comes as no surprise that our kitchen is one of the most common areas where germs are found. According to a study by NSF International, the germiest spots in the home include dish rags and sponges, kitchen sinks, countertops and cutting boards. Whether it is the kitchen sink, stove, microwave or fridge, they all contain germs that should be removed with proper sanitization.

2. Exercise Equipment

Whether at home or at the gym, you’re likely to encounter cold and flu germs on every single piece of exercise equipment. Avoid these germs by properly sanitizing equipment before and after you are done using it. 

3. Car Interior

Each day — without thinking twice — you get in and out of your car to go about your daily routine. Whether that’s picking up your kids from school or going to and from work, the array of germs you and your loved ones are spreading on your car’s door handles and inside interior is cringe-worthy. In fact, a study by Queen Mary University of London found the steering wheel of a car can harbor up to nine times the number of germs found on a public toilet seat. What’s more, the trunk of a car can house more than 1,000 bacteria per square inch and a half. Don’t wait — wipe down your car today!

4. ATM Keypads

ATM keypads are another overlooked place where germs can be found. In fact, 41% of ATM buttons contain enough germs to spread illness, according to a study by Kimberly-Clark Professional. Stop the germs in their tracks by carrying hand sanitizer with you to use before and after using an ATM. 

5. TV Remote

TV remotes are germ hotspots. In fact, one study by University of Houston found remotes were among the most heavily contaminated items in hotel rooms. Stop cold and flu germs in their tracks by wiping down your remote controls regularly.

6. Condiments

How often do you reach for your favorite condiments during meals? How about the communal mustard and ketchup in the fridge at work? Avoid the spread of cold and flu germs by wiping down your favorite bottles and jars, and washing your hands before touching your food. 

7. School Supplies

Understandably, schools are a breeding ground for a large number of the cold and flu germs your child could be bringing home. School supplies such as pencils, pens, notebooks, backpacks and more collect germs that could lead to coughing, sneezing and even the flu. Help prevent germs from spreading by cleaning your child’s things regularly.

8. Cell Phones

It’s likely you spend a lot of time touching your phone — and covering it with cold and flu germs. The average cellphone holds approximately 10 times more bacteria than your toilet seat, according to a study by the University of Arizona. Wipe yours down, stat! 

9. Coffee Station and Watercooler

The coffee and water station in your home or office are popular spots. With this popularity comes the risk of attracting germs. Make sure to wash your hands consistently throughout the day and clean items like coffeepots, communal coffee supplies and water coolers or fountains on a regular basis.

10. Handheld Electronics

While handheld electronics, like video game controllers and tablets, offer up convenience and entertainment value, these items are also saturated in germs. 

11. Toothbrush Holder

Did you know your toothbrush holder could be the third germiest item in your home? Think about it: You use it on a daily basis but how often do you wipe it down? Prevent the spreading of germs by cleaning your toothbrush holder on a regular basis. 

12. Work

One study found the average office keyboard houses approximately 20,000 times more bacteria than a toilet seat. Gross! For five days out of each week, keyboards, phones and desks become the most consistently touched and germ-friendly items. Avoid the spread of cold and flu germs by sanitizing often.

13. Light Switches

One of the most easily forgotten items in your home and workplace that contains and spreads the most germs is the light switch. The University of Houston study found main light switches had the highest number of bacteria in hotel rooms. Wipe them down for everyone's health. 

14. Bed Sheets and Towels

Sorry to break it to you, but your linens are another place where germs are found. This cold and flu season make an effort to wash your towels and sheets at least once a week in hot water. 

15. Hairbrush and Combs

Many of us go about our morning and evening routines (even when we’re sick) and don’t think twice about the germs that we could be touching — or spreading. Germs, dust, old hair and more accumulate on your hairbrush and can lead to scalp infections or dandruff. Don’t let this happen to you; clean your comb or brush today!