Khaberni - Although the bathroom is considered one of the cleanest places in the house, hygiene experts warn that some everyday tools can become hotbeds for germs and mold, threatening public health.
According to experts from Plumbworld, a company specializing in bathrooms and kitchens, the warm and moist environment inside the bathroom provides the ideal conditions for bacterial growth, making it necessary to clean or replace tools to avoid skin, gastrointestinal, and respiratory health problems, according to the Mirror newspaper.
The top 5 tools that may expose you to disease if not cleaned or replaced regularly include:
1- Old toothbrush:
Its bristles gather toothpaste residues and bacteria daily, and might get contaminated by toilet spray. Experts recommend changing the brush every three months or when the bristles are worn out, along with rinsing and drying it well after each use, and replacing all brushes if a family member gets sick.
2- Bath loofahs and sponges:
Despite their effectiveness in cleaning the skin, they are a fertile environment for bacteria, due to the accumulation of dirt and moisture. They should be rinsed after each use, left to dry in a well-ventilated area, cleaned weekly with hot water or a vinegar solution, and replaced every month to two months.
3- Wet towels:
They retain skin oils, dead cells, and bacteria, especially if left wet. It is advisable to wash them after 3-4 uses at a temperature no less than 60°C, dry them well, and replace them at least every two years.
4- Bathroom mat:
It absorbs water after each shower, and if it remains wet, mold can grow, especially in mats with rubber bases. It should be washed weekly with hot water and fully dried, and discarded when unpleasant odors or dark stains appear.
5- Old cosmetics and care products:
Products that have been open for a long time may contain bacteria. It is advisable to check expiration dates, dispose of any product open for more than a year, and keep containers closed in a cool, dry place.
Even if your bathroom looks tidy and clean, paying attention to these small details can turn it into a safer and healthier space for you and your family.
