What if your kitchen counter, your phone, and your doorknob could be the reason you’re feeling under the weather this flu season? Seem unlikely? Think again. It’s easy to forget that germs can lurk in the most unexpected of places. While most people are diligent about washing their hands and using sanitiser, they often overlook the spaces and objects that are touched the most. Germs can linger on such surfaces for hours or even days, making regular cleaning and disinfecting more crucial than ever, especially when staying in shared environments.
Whether you’re trying to keep your home flu free or are preparing a property for a new tenant during professional End of Lease Cleaning Sydney, understanding which areas need extra attention, can make all the difference. This article highlights 10 germ prone spots that should be disinfected thoroughly during flu season to minimise the risk of illness spreading. From doorknobs to kitchen sponges, these easily forgotten areas can quickly become breeding grounds for viruses and bacteria.
1. Doorknobs and Handles
Doorknobs and handles are primary culprits for germ transmission because they are among the most commonly touched surfaces in any situation. Everyone touches the front door, bathroom handles, and cupboard latches several times every day. As a result, it is critical that you wipe them down with disinfectant on a frequent basis, especially during the colder months or when someone in the household is sick. Professional cleaning methods, such as those performed at end of lease cleaning, never skip these high touch points.
2. Light Switches
Often overlooked during daily cleaning, light switches can carry a surprising amount of bacteria. They are touched both before and after meals, after bathroom visits and without anyone washing their hands in between. Make it a habit to include these in your disinfecting routine. A quick wipe with an alcohol based cleaner can help reduce the spread of germs significantly.
3. Remote Controls and Electronic Devices
TV remotes, gaming controllers, and even mobile phones are used constantly and shared among family members. These devices rarely get cleaned but are some of the dirtiest items in a household. Use disinfectant wipes that are specifically designed for such electronics to clean their surfaces without subjecting them to any damage. For a deeper clean, you can incorporate this step into your daily routine or even request it during a detailed End of Lease Cleaning Sydney service, if you're preparing to move out soon.
4. Kitchen Sponges and Dishcloths
We often forget to clean our kitchen cleaning tools. Sponges and dishcloths can absorb food particles and moisture, creating the perfect breeding ground for germs. So, it’s essential that you replace them frequently or sanitise them by microwaving a damp sponge for a minute. Dishcloths, too, should be washed in hot water after every use. If you want to maintain the good health of everyone in your household during the flu season, then keeping your kitchen sanitary is vital.
5. Bathroom Faucets and Toilet Flush Handles
The bathroom is one of the most obvious places for germs to gather, but even then, some areas like faucet handles and toilet flush levers are easily neglected. These areas need to be disinfected daily with an antibacterial cleaner. This step is especially important when you’re living in shared accommodations or rental properties where different occupants may be using the facilities. During a cleaning inspection, these bathroom fittings are carefully checked to ensure hygienic standards are being met by the previous tenant.
6. Shared Office Equipment
In the office, equipment like keyboards, computer mice and printers are frequently shared among staff, making them hotspots for flu viruses to spread and thrive on. If you’re working in a shared space, sanitise your workstation daily and avoid touching your face after using such shared devices. Companies could even consider hiring commercial cleaners, like the expert End of Lease Cleaning Sydney team, during the flu season to ensure these areas are sanitised thoroughly, helping keep their employees healthy and productive.
7. Refrigerator Door Handles
Just like doorknobs, fridge handles get touched constantly throughout the day, often with hands that have just come from outside or from preparing food. Germs can easily transfer from raw foods or contaminated surfaces to the handle. Cleaning this area once a day during flu season is a simple but effective preventive measure.
8. Handrails and Stair Banisters
In homes with multiple levels or in apartment buildings, handrails are vital for safety — and, as a result, are also major germ carriers. Disinfecting these at least once a day can help prevent the spread of illnesses, especially if children or elderly individuals are in the household. Ensuring that handrails and banisters are cleaned frequently can also reduce the risk of allergens and bacteria accumulating, promoting a healthier living space.
9. Children's Toys and Play Areas
Children are notorious for spreading germs, particularly through their toys and shared play equipment. They are also prone to putting things in their mouth while playing, so their toys should be wiped down regularly with child safe disinfectants. Any soft toys should be washed in warm water for added protection. Creating a cleaning schedule for the kid’s play areas is essential in reducing germ transmission during flu season and keeping everyone in the house happy and healthy.
10. Pet Bowls and Accessories
Although pets don’t usually catch the flu, their bowls, toys and collars can pick up germs from the floor, your hands or the air. Clean pet bowls daily with hot, soapy water and disinfect hard plastic toys at least once a week. Keeping your pet area clean helps in maintaining a germ free household.
Germ Prone Spots to Disinfect During Flu Season
Wrapping Up
By putting in efforts to maintain the hygiene levels in your home on a daily basis, you will be able to lower the spread of germs in the house and help keep everyone healthy. Even if you somehow do end up falling sick due to the flu, take these measures to not let them spread any further. Be consistent and you’ll be able to live a healthier life. Happy Cleaning!