But sometimes it’s necessary to toss the item completely to prevent germs from taking hold.
Here’s a handy guide to what should be cleaned, disinfected, or replaced routinely.
And don’t forget, soft items need to be washed regularly, too.
Credit:Getty Images / La Bicicleta Vermella
Pet Bowls
Wash pet bowls with hot soapy water daily.
you’re able to also put bowls in the top rack of the dishwasher.
Toothbrush Holder
Clean your toothbrush holder weekly.
Coffee Maker and Reservoir
Toclean your coffee maker, run a cycle using vinegar and water weekly.
It helps prevent the spread of germs (and smells!)
from dirty laundry to clean clothes.
Wipe down your laundry basket with a wipe or spray at least monthly.
If yourlaundry hamperis fabric, toss it in the washing machine along with your clothes.
Pillows
You wash your pillowcases regularly, but don’t forget about the insert.
Dust mites and dead skin cells can build up and cause allergies.
Aim towash pillows quarterly.
you’re free to put them in the washing machine on a warm, gentle cycle.
Don’t forget to leave the spray on the surface for a few minutes before wiping.
And dont forget the drain basket; load it in the dishwasher along with the dishes.
Refrigerator Handles
Grimy hands touch refrigerator handles multiple times a day.
Give them a spritz of disinfectant daily, twice a day during cold and flu season.
Doorknobs
Doorknobs, especially bathroom and front door handles, get lots of hand traffic.
Spritz them whenever you think of it or during yourroutine cleaning.
Here’s how long a few key items can hang on.
Kitchen Sponge
The sponge takes the prize as the germiest item in the house.
You shouldclean your spongeregularly but toss it every 2-3 weeks.
Brushes with nylon bristles should be replaced more often than those that are silicone.
Brooms
Replace your broom annually.
It depends on how often you vacuum and if anyone in your household has allergies.
