Germ hot spots parents should know about

Germ hot spots are typically tactile areas that can collect harmful bacteria through repeat contact on a daily basis

The spread of germs is especially common among toddlers and young children, as their curiosity and development rely on frequent physical touch while they explore the world around them.

It is common knowledge that colds can be directly caused by the transmission of germs in and outside the home.

According to the NHS, on average, it is normal for a child to have 8 or more colds a year.

Making sure you’re aware of germinated areas in and around the home and knowing how you can sterilise them is important in reducing the spread of germs and the risk of illnesses like this.

Germ hot spots inside the home

Typically, these areas can involve contact with people, perishable goods or bodily fluids and can be high-traffic areas of the home. Some of the top germ hot spots include:

The kitchen

Maintaining a clean kitchen is crucial when preparing food for babies, toddlers and children as it helps prevent the build-up of harmful bacteria.

If dish sponges and cloths aren’t washed frequently, they can quickly become germ-laden after repeated use; they must also be replaced regularly.

60% of dishcloths are contaminated with E.coli.

Wiping down worktops, thorough handwashing and cleaning of kitchen utensils are essential, particularly after handling raw meat or unwashed produce.

If you have any pets and keep their water and food bowls in the kitchen, they must be washed at least every week. The bacteria in your pet’s mouth comes from food, washing themselves, outside and generic bacteria that can only be found in animals which can make humans unwell.

Keeping kitchen sinks free of limescale is also important, and emptying bins frequently all contribute to a safer and more hygienic kitchen environment for you and your family.

Bathroom/toilet

The bathroom and toilet areas are some of the most germ-filled places within the home and must be sanitised regularly due to their humid air and damp nature.

Regular use of antibacterial products within the toilet bowl, as well as the use of de-scaler and antibacterial spray on baths, showers, sinks, and shower curtains, are advised to reduce the spread of germs and further eliminate bad smells.

Upward of 60 times more microbial life on shower curtains than toilet seats.

It’s important to cleanse any bath toys that your child may be playing with, as bath toys with holes can easily build up mould and limescale over time due to their contact with water. Making sure your child is bathing in a clean, disinfected environment is important to maintain to reduce contact with harmful germs.

Living room/play area

There are many items within a living room and play area that can create germ hotspots for parents to be aware of as these are rooms where both parents and children spend a lot of their time.

Remote controls are handled by everyone in the family, frequently touched by multiple people including kids with unwashed hands. It’s important to be wiped down regularly, so it is kept clean and as germ-free as possible.

Doorknobs and light switches are 2 things that are commonly forgotten about when it comes to a cleaning routine. Touched often but cleaned rarely, they must be included in your regular cleaning ritual.

Light switches carry 217 bacteria per square inch.

Kids’ curiosity leads to frequently putting items in their mouth, including toys and other entertainment objects. Passing these from adult to child and storing them in toy bins means germs are passed around and easily transferred.

Did you know you can sterilise toys using Milton? Our sterilising tablets kill 99.9% of germs on your child accessories!

The bedroom

In the place where your child gets their much-needed rest, germs can buildup in a number of different places.

Pillowcases and sheets must be washed and changed regularly due to the sweat, dead skin cells and drool that spreads. Use our antibacterial laundry cleanser to effectively eliminate germs at a low temperature.

Bed linen is host to millions of bacteria, fungi, mites and viruses.

Just like doorknobs, you should be aware of your wardrobe and drawer handles which get frequently touched but rarely cleaned. Wipe these down regularly to avoid germ transmission.

One of the main germ hotspots in your children’s bedroom (or wherever it is located) is the nappy changing station. This requires frequent disinfecting and should always have product supply kept within it, ready for cleaning!

Eliminate the germ hotspots in your home with Milton’s sterilising and hygiene product ranges. We’re here to help you keep your home clean for both you and your children. Shop today at Boots, Amazon, Tesco, ASDA, Sainsbury’s and other major supermarkets.