Take caution when touching these common germy spots.
The fix: Use alcohol-based antibacterial wipes to sanitize before and after use of items like ticketing kiosks and ATMs.
The fix: Clean surfaces daily, using disinfectant wipes or a mix of bleach and water.
The fix: Replace sponges and rags every few weeks, depending on usage. In between replacements, run them through the dishwasher or microwave for one to two minutes to kill germs.
The fix: Clean those surfaces — in bathrooms and kitchens — frequently, using a cleanser with bleach to kill bacteria.
The fix: The hot air blown by wall-mounted dryers can deposit bacteria onto your newly cleaned hands. Play it safe by using paper towels, a clean hand towel, or letting your hands air-dry.
The fix: When you wash your hands after returning home, make a habit to clean your glasses as well. Rinse under water, wash using a drop of two of dish soap, and dry with a microfiber cloth. Don’t forget the earpiece and nose pads.
The fix: Use bottles made from hard materials like stainless steel over plastic as plastic is more likely to harbor bacteria. Wash bottles thoroughly with soap and hot water between uses, in a dishwasher, if possible.
The fix: Wipe down surfaces with antibacterial wipes before and after shopping. If you carry reusable shopping bags, regularly wash them in hot water and bleach.
The fix: Disinfect light switches in your home using a household cleaner or rubbing alcohol, using a Q-tip to ensure you reach the crevasses in the switch itself. Wash your hands or use sanitizer after touching a light switch outside of your house.
The fix: Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth during the trip, and until you can wash your hands. Hold your bag away from the floor, or put a newspaper on the seat, under your bag.