Bathrooms, being heavily used spaces, often become breeding grounds for bacteria due to their purpose and moisture in the environment. Upper Arlington Plumbing & Drain is committed to helping you boost your bathroom hygiene. So, today, we share ten essential tips to you keep unwanted microbes at bay, addressing common bacteria types and highlighting bacterial hotspots.
Common Bacteria in Bathrooms and Germ Hotspots:
We all know that bathrooms are a breeding ground for bacteria. The usual suspects include E.coli, Staphylococcus, Salmonella, Influenza virus, and Norovirus. And if you want to kick those germs to the curb, pay attention to the hotspots like toilet seats, faucets, shower curtains, towels, and countertops. Knowing where those sneaky microbes hide gives you an edge in your cleaning game!
10 Eye-Opening Tips to Keep Bathroom Germs at Bay:
- Optimal Handwashing Duration: Make regular handwashing your first line of defense against harmful bacteria. Per 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. On top of that, when you make sure everyone in your household is on board with this sanitary practice, it goes a long way in making your bathroom hygiene-boosting efforts a little bit more fruitful.
- Scheduled Bathroom Cleanings: Not many people actually enjoy cleaning the bathroom, and we don’t blame you if the same goes for you. To help you maintain a clean bathroom, try designating a specific day each week for thorough cleaning. This routine helps to make sure the job gets done and keeps you on track, ensuring comprehensive coverage, eliminating bacteria, mold, and potential hazards, and fostering a cleaner and healthier environment for your family. Also, for a quick and easy disinfecting session, a good hack is to keep a pack of antibacterial wipes in your bathroom and use them to wipe down surfaces whenever necessary. This will help stop the spread of germs and bacteria and keep the area clean until your next scheduled cleaning.
- 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.
- 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. Once again, this is another hygiene habit you want to make sure everyone in your house is on board with.
- Touchless Faucets for Cross-Contamination Prevention: If you have not already, consider upgrading your bathroom with hands-free fixtures like motion-sensor faucets to minimize cross-contamination risks. Investing in modern technology enhances convenience and hygiene, reducing the spread of germs.
- Toilet Brush Disinfection: Toilet brushes can accumulate bacteria; therefore, it is essential to clean them after every use. Simply pour hot water and bleach over the bristles (and into the toilet bowl to prevent germ spread). Afterward, allow the brush to air dry by placing the handle between the toilet bowl and the seat lid with the bristles facing the bowl. While it may appear as an additional step, this practice significantly reduces bacterial presence in your bathroom. Additionally, 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. You can also opt for washable fabric liners or replace curtains regularly for a cleaner and safer bathroom.
- Bidet Installation for Cleaner Alternatives: Ever thought about using a bidet? 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: 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 Cleaning: Consider 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.
Implement these expert tips from Upper Arlington Plumbing & Drain to 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 Upper Arlington Plumbing & Drain today at (614) 363-1924, or schedule an appointment by clicking here!