Because bathrooms are heavily utilized, they can become breeding grounds for bacteria and germs due to their inherent purpose and moist conditions. Recognizing this, Westerville Plumbing & Drain is dedicated to helping you enhance your bathroom hygiene in ways you may have not considered before. Today, we present ten essential tips to keep unwanted bathroom microbes at bay, addressing common bacteria types and highlighting bacterial hotspots.
Common Bacteria in Bathrooms and Germ Hotspots:
There’s no way around it – bathrooms harbor a variety of bacteria. The most frequently encountered bacteria in bathrooms include E.coli, Staphylococcus, Salmonella, Influenza virus, and Norovirus. Additionally, to effectively combat germs, it is important to be mindful of the bacterial hotspots, which encompass toilet seats, faucets, shower curtains, towels, and countertops. By familiarizing yourself with the common areas where bacteria and other microbes reside, you can strategically focus your cleaning efforts on these specific regions.
10 Eye-Opening Tips to Keep Bathroom Germs at Bay:
- Optimal Handwashing Duration: Make regular handwashing your first line of defense against harmful bacteria. As recommended by the CDC, you should scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and warm water to significantly reduce infection risks and prevent the spread of illnesses. Furthermore, it is beneficial if everyone in your household is on board with this small hygiene hack.
- Scheduled Bathroom Cleanings: Cleaning the bathroom isn’t all that pleasant. So, it’s easy to keep putting of this unseemly task. To help keep you on track and maintain a clean bathroom, try designating a specific day each week for thorough cleaning. This routine ensures everything gets properly cleaned and helps foster a cleaner and healthier environment for your family. In addition, to facilitate efficient disinfection, keep a pack of antibacterial wipes in your bathroom. Use them to sanitize surfaces as necessary in between the next scheduled cleaning.
- Closed Toilet Lid Habit: Contribute significantly to a clean and bacteria-free bathroom environment by closing the toilet lid before flushing. This simple step contains airborne particles, reducing the spread of bacteria. This is another hack you want to make sure everyone in your home is aware of and on board with.
- Covered Toothbrushes for Oral Hygiene: You can also enhance your daily oral care routine by protecting your toothbrush from airborne bacteria. Store it with a cover to prevent contaminants from landing on the bristles, reducing the risk of bacterial transfer.
- Touchless Faucets for Cross-Contamination Prevention: If you have yet to do so, consider upgrading your bathroom with hands-free fixtures like motion-sensor faucets to minimize cross-contamination risks.
- Regular Toilet Brush Disinfection: Toilet brushes should be cleaned after each use to prevent bacteria buildup. Simply pour hot water and bleach over the bristles, making sure to also pour some into the toilet bowl to prevent the spread of germs. After that, let the brush air dry by propping the handle between the toilet bowl and seat lid, with the brush facing the bowl. Although it may seem like an extra step, this simple practice significantly reduces bacteria in your bathroom. If you prefer brushes with disposable ends, remember to discard the used end after each cleaning.
- Shower Curtain and Liner Maintenance: Prevent bacteria and mold buildup by regularly changing shower curtains. Opt for washable fabric liners or replace curtains regularly for a cleaner and safer bathroom.
- Bidet Installation for Cleaner Alternatives: Upgrade to a bidet for a cleaner alternative to traditional toilet paper, reducing the risk of germ spread. Reasonably priced and easy to install, bidets are a smart investment in hygiene and comfort.
- Proper Bathroom Ventilation: You can maintain a hygienic space by ensuring proper ventilation after bathroom use, reducing moisture levels. This simple step not only keeps the air fresh but also prevents bacterial growth.
- Professional Drain Cleanin: Consider scheduling a professional drain cleaning every 1-2 years to prevent bacterial and mold buildup in your plumbing system. This practice ensures proper drainage, reduces foul odors, and promotes a hygienic environment for your family.
Implementing these expert tips from Westerville Plumbing & Drain will transform your bathroom into a cleaner, healthier space with fewer germs. Consistency is key, and following these practices will significantly reduce the spread of bacteria, elevating overall hygiene in your home and providing a safer environment for you and your family.
Call Westerville Plumbing & Drain today at (614) 540-3437, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!