Everyone wants to keep their homes clean and germ-free, but that isn’t always possible due to the various ways germs can enter a home. Germs often come in on our shoes from places like the grocery store, through open windows and doors, via sources like household refuse and even when taking out large garbage bags for pick up, or are brought home on our clothes or pets after an outing. That’s why it’s imperative to have the proper cleaning tools and products such as Glad ForceFlex trash bags, Clorox multi-surface cleaner, Fabuloso floor cleaner, and Pine Sol all purpose cleaner on hand to ensure a clean home. Here are five of the top spots in your home where germs and bacteria tend to accumulate:

1. High touch surfaces

High-use surfaces such as doorknobs, light switches, and cabinet handles are another top source of germs and bacteria. As we touch these items multiple times a day, bacteria can quickly accumulate on them. To reduce the risk of spreading germs around your home, it’s best practice to clean frequently used surfaces with antibacterial wipes or spray. Additionally, it’s a beneficial practice to keep some gloves close by that you can use when cleaning the house. This will help protect your hands from any germs or bacteria that may still be on the surfaces after cleaning. Household garbage and food waste shouldn’t be allowed to accumulate. Instead, clean as you cook and use extra precautions by purchasing Clorox trash bags, which help eliminate food and bacteria odors to keep your home clean and healthy.

2. Bathrooms

The warm and damp conditions provided by the bathroom make it the ideal breeding ground for bacteria and germs. High-touch items like toilet handles, light switches, sink taps, faucets, and more overlooked fixtures such as shower curtains and towel racks are all rife with bacteria. Even after you clean the bathroom with a disinfectant, germs may still find their way onto surfaces through everyday activities. Therefore, it is best practice to frequently wipe down all bathroom countertops and surfaces to reduce germs in your home’s most vulnerable areas.

3. Electronic devices

Cellphones, computers, tablets, and other electronic devices are often overlooked when cleaning the home. However, they’re one of the most prominent breeders of germs since they’re handled so frequently by multiple family members throughout the day. Studies show that keyboards have 18 times more bacteria than toilet seats! It’s important to regularly sanitize your electronic devices and wash your hands before using them to avoid spreading germs around your home.

4. Bedrooms

Bedding in the bedrooms is one of the most neglected areas for cleaning, although it is a major hotspot for germs and bacteria. Microbes can accumulate due to saliva, sweat, and dead skin cells left behind between washes. It is essential to take extra care to wash your sheets regularly at higher temperatures with detergent. To ensure all dirt and residue are gone, consider using an additional disinfectant such as bleach or probiotics. Not only does this keep odors away, but it also keeps allergens from irritating your lungs. Investing in high-quality materials like sheets and pillowcases with breathable woven fabric will ensure you’ll also get more use out of them.

5. Kitchens

The kitchen is one of the prominent places in your home where germs and bacteria accumulate. This is because it’s often a high-traffic area, with food being prepared, cooked, and stored inside. Germs can also be found on surfaces used for food preparation, such as countertops and cutting boards.

With these tips, you’ll be able to reduce the germs and bacteria in your home to stay healthy. To help keep your house free of germs and bacteria, shop cleaning supplies like Clorox disinfectant spray or other sanitizing products on all surfaces after each use. You should also shop for supplies like Pine-Sol household cleaner and floor cleaners to help keep your kitchen germ-free. These simple steps will help ensure that your home remains germ-free and safe for everyone.