Bathroom: Germ-free and Healthy

Poor bathroom hygiene can present a health risk to the entire household. When not cleaned properly and often, a dirty bathroom becomes a breeding ground for bacteria and germs that spread illness through the house.

Each family member can play their part in keeping the bathroom clean to prevent germs from spreading. It involves keeping themselves clean and cleaning up after themselves. The regimen is not just healthy; it's considerate. The dirt and germs you leave behind can linger and spread illness to other family members.

Personal Hygiene
Your own personal hygiene plays a large part in improving bathroom hygiene. Like the bathroom, your mouth and hands are breeding grounds for bacteria. Overall bathroom cleanliness begins when you clean yourself. Replace your toothbrushes every three months. Don't let your dirty toothbrush hang in the holder with your family’s toothbrushes. And never share a toothbrush with anyone. That's the quickest way to spread infections.

Wash your hands thoroughly each time you use the bathroom. Germs spread quickly by touch. Instruct all family members to wash their hands with warm, soapy water after using the toilet. Educate young children early about the importance of toilet hygiene.

Use disposable towels to dry your hands instead of a cloth towel that everyone would use. By using disposables, you'll be throwing away germs instead of spreading them. Communal towels contain bacteria and viruses that cause illness.

Bath towels should be changed and washed regularly. Hang them up to dry after use; the longer they remain wet, the more germs will collect on the towel.

Surfaces
All bathroom surfaces should be cleaned regularly. These include the door handle, faucets, toilet, sink, floor and shower/bathtub.

Shake water from the curtain after showering to prevent buildup of mold and mildew. Always leave the curtain open so water evaporates. Clean the curtain liner once a month.

Occasionally remove your showerheads and soak them overnight in vinegar or a commercial cleanser. This removes the build-up and dirt that clogs the head and contaminates the shower water.

Be especially careful when cleaning the toilet, especially if a family member is sick. All toilet parts should be cleaned regularly including the seat, rim, lid, bowl and flushing handle. Always wipe the toilet seat with tissue before and after using.

Here are some other tips to help reduce bacteria and prevent contamination:

• Never share razors
• Wear shoes or slippers in the bathroom to prevent contact with germs on the floor, which can cause conditions such as athlete’s foot
• Use toilet paper or paper towels to wipe up spills and water
• Keep the bathroom dry; bacteria breeds in moist environments