By Sarah Burns on October 18, 2009 in
Germs: Sure, they're a reality, but you know the score.
You scrub your toilet, you wipe down your countertops -- in short, you do what you can. To help you further fend off bad bugs this season, we sleuthed out some lesser-known germ-harborers. Here are three hidden culprits to look out for, with tips on how to keep your family healthier this season.
Germ Magnet #1: Dish TowelsThese kitchen staples may be soaked with deadly germs. A recent study found a large amount of Americans have dish towels contaminated with MRSA, E. coli, and other bad bugs. Why? People often reuse these towels to wipe up spills, smearing sickness-causing organisms all over their kitchen, says Charles Gerba, PhD, professor of biology at the University of Arizona. His advice: Save these rags for drying wet dishes and sop up spills with paper towels instead.
Germ Magnet #2: Vacuum Cleaner
These appliances suck in, spit out and trap a slew of bacteria every time they're used--creating the ultimate environment for ills. To prevent probs, change your bag at least once a month. Own a bagless cleaner? Wash it down with diluted bleach.
Germ Magnet #3: Any Condiment on a Restaurant Table
Better break out the Purell before you touch that salt shaker. The reason: Many people don't wash their hands after they go the bathroom and even fewer give their fingers a rinse before eating. Plus, since many of these products aren't routinely cleaned, the bacteria builds up. To head off hassles, avoid direct contact. Use a thick napkin to pick up items instead.