You’ve finally kicked that nasty cold. You’re feeling human again. But before you celebrate, there’s one more thing to do – a serious clean of your living space. Those germs didn’t all leave with your symptoms. Here are the five things you absolutely need to clean after being sick.
1. Your Phone and Electronics
Think about how many times you touched your phone while you were sick. Texting from bed, checking the time, scrolling through social media while watching TV. Your phone is basically a petri dish at this point. Use a 70% isopropyl alcohol wipe or a UV sanitizer. Don’t forget your TV remote, laptop keyboard, and tablet.
2. Bedding and Pillows
You spent a lot of time in bed while sick. Coughing, sneezing, sweating. All those germs are now living in your pillowcases and sheets. Wash everything in hot water with a good detergent. If your pillows are machine-washable, do them too. If not, leave them in direct sunlight for a few hours – UV light kills germs naturally.
3. Bathroom Surfaces
Your toothbrush is a big one here. Replace it or soak it in mouthwash for 30 minutes. Clean the bathroom counter, faucet handles, and the toilet flush handle. These are high-touch surfaces that you probably used multiple times a day while sick.
4. Kitchen Sponges and Dish Towels
That sponge you’ve been using all week? Toss it. Studies show kitchen sponges harbor more bacteria than almost anything else in your home. Replace it with a fresh one. And wash all dish towels in hot water – you’ve been drying your hands on them after washing up, and those germs are still there.
5. Door Handles and Light Switches
These are the most touched surfaces in any home and the most overlooked when cleaning. Use disinfectant wipes on every door handle, light switch, and drawer pull in your home. Don’t forget the refrigerator door handle and cabinet knobs.
One More Tip
After you’ve cleaned everything, wash your hands one last time with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds. Then take a deep breath and enjoy being healthy again. You’ve earned it.