These seemingly innocent spots at home are actually bacteria breeding grounds

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought to light the different ways people can get infected by disease-causing viruses and other pathogens. As the novel coronavirus spreads via person-to-person transmission, where infected individuals disperse respiratory droplets in the air and surfaces through coughing or sneezing. These droplets contain the COVID-19 virus which can remain viable and active for days.

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You might not know it or be aware of it, but these seemingly innocent pieces of furniture are actually harborers of bacteria and pathogens because of the multiple number of times we reach for them each day.

Things like doorknobs, staircase handrails, windows, refrigerator and cabinet handles, light switches, sofas, beds, pillows, mattresses should be at the top of your list to clean and disinfect regularly.

You should also pay particular attention to surfaces which can be a breeding ground for pathogens such as tables, chairs, countertops, study desks—places which people not only frequently touch but also where they usually put down their smartphones and other hand-held electronic gadgets. These could be disinfected using multi-action cleaners.

Remote controls for the TV, sound system, game consoles, and air conditioning unit are ideal carriers for the novel coronavirus since they are the most frequently touched and shared objects among family members. It is best to sanitize these regularly with disinfectant wipes.

Viruses can also thrive in toilet bowls, toilet seats, faucets, shower curtains, mats, and sinks because of the damp surfaces and moist surroundings they provide, while carpets and rugs can easily spread pathogens because people, especially kids, literally walk barefoot and sometimes lay on them. These could be easily cleaned and sanitized using toilet bowl cleaners and disinfectant concentrates which could be used on surfaces undiluted or diluted with water.

Lysol recommends getting rid of possible nasties on frequently-touched surfaces and objects using household antibacterial and multi-purpose cleaners. For optimum efficacy, individual products should be used according to instructions found on their labels. It is also advisable to wear disposable gloves while cleaning and disinfecting, or wash hands immediately after using disinfectant products.