As winter gatherings, shopping trips, shopping centers, and community events fill the calendar, germs have more chances than ever to spread. Simple habits—like consistent handwashing and mindful cleaning of everyday items—can make a meaningful difference in staying well during cold and flu season.
We expect bathrooms to be germy. But many of the most common germ hotspots are everyday items and surfaces we touch constantly without much thought. These high-touch surfaces can easily transfer germs from hands to the mouth, nose, and eyes.
Below are five everyday germ hotspots you may be overlooking—along with simple, realistic ways to reduce exposure.
Smartphones
Your phone goes everywhere: kitchen counters, bathrooms, checkout lines, places of worship, and public transportation. Studies suggest smartphones can carry significant bacterial contamination because they are handled frequently and cleaned infrequently.
Simple fix: Clean your phone regularly with a device-safe disinfecting wipe, especially after being in public spaces. Wash your hands after phone use and try to avoid touching your face while scrolling.
Reusable Shopping Bags
Reusable grocery bags are environmentally friendly, but they’re often reused without washing. They can pick up bacteria from carts, car trunks, countertops, and packaged foods.
Simple fix: Wash reusable bags regularly, especially after carrying raw foods. Keep separate bags for groceries and non-food items when possible.
Remote Controls and Shared Electronics
TV remotes, gaming controllers, and shared keyboards are frequently touched but rarely cleaned, making them easy places for germs to accumulate.
Simple fix: Wipe remotes and shared electronics weekly and after illness in the household. Encourage handwashing before and after shared use.
Door Handles and Light Switches
These surfaces are touched by everyone entering a space, often before handwashing occurs.
Simple fix: Clean high-traffic handles and switches regularly. At home, make handwashing the first step after coming inside.
Water Bottle Lids and Coffee Mugs
Reusable water bottles and travel mugs are great habits—but lids and mouthpieces can harbor bacteria if not cleaned thoroughly.
Simple fix: Wash bottles and lids daily with warm, soapy water, and allow them to dry completely.
A Practical Reminder
Reducing germ exposure isn’t about fear or perfection—it’s about awareness and small, consistent habits. Focusing on a few high-impact areas can significantly reduce everyday exposure and help support overall health during busy seasons.
When illness does happen, it’s also a reminder to slow down, rest, and allow your body time to recover.
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