Wednesday, May 27, 2009

The Germiest Places

When I was at the doctors office the other day, patiently waiting for the doctor, I was reading all the information sheets they staple on the wall to keep you "occupied." One in particular caught my eye. It was called: Germiest Places. This post is going to gross you out, so deal with it.

The 5 germiest places in your life:

The kitchen sink- Your kitchen sink, even though you CLEAN in it, has more than 500, ooo bacteria per square inch. Plus your sponges, faucet handles and basin are crawling with germy microbes.

To reduce the risk: clean your sink and counters with an antibacterial after preparing and cleaning food, wash your hands well for 20 seconds, with warm soapy water and throw your sponges in the dishwasher- it will kill 99% of bacteria on them.

Airplane Bathrooms- Not a big shock here. Besides the fact that they are cramped and overused, its hard to wash your hands in those tiny sinks, and the volcanic flush of the commode often spews 'particles' on the walls and everything you touch in the bathroom.

To reduce the risk: Use the toilet cover paper when available, and after you wash your hands use the paper towel to handle the toilet lid, tap and doorknob. Put the seat lid down when you flush and if there isn't one, turn your back for a hasty retreat.

Shopping Cart Handles- Saliva, bacteria and fecal matter are just a few of the nasties on shopping cart handles. (Makes you want to do your grocery shopping online doesn't it?) They are handled by dozens of people everyday and of course raw foods carry icky pathogens.

To reduce the risk: Most grocery stores have antibacterial wipes next to the shopping carts, but if they don't make sure you bring your own. Or use a shopping cart cover.

ATM Machines- Think about it.... have you EVER seen one of these being cleaned or wiped down? These buttons have more germs on them than most public-bathroom doorknobs.

Not sure what's going on here!

To reduce the risk: Carry an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with you and use it after visits to the ATM and also after handling money which is also germy.

Your Purse- Recent studies found that many women's purses carry thousands of bacteria on them- especially the bottoms. Salmonella, E coli, and staphylococcus are just a few.

To reduce the risk: Hang your purse on a hook wherever you can- especially in the bathroom. Avoid putting it on the kitchen counter, and opt for leather or vinyl because they are easier to clean than cloth.

Now that Im sure I've scared most of you into not leaving your houses, I hope you have a great day!
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7 comments:

Jemaica said...

Jess I'm pretty sure that girl at the ATM is peeing her teeny waheeny shorts! It looks like there is urine dripping down her legs. Hahahaha great choice of pictures!
Beware of germs AND urine at ATM's!

Kristin said...

Duuuuuuuude. SO sick. Fecal matter? And my husband makes fun of me for bringing the antibacterial wipes in the diaper bag for all occasions.

Hoffmann Family said...

Wow that was so informative! I really appreciate that!

Hoffmann Family said...

By the way, I am really enjoying your blog, I heard about it from good ole GTU. You gals are on my "list" now.

nschinook said...

no need to get worried

Reb said...

That is so Nasty! I was a Microbiology major in college and can verify all of this. A good thing to do is to never leave your house and always spray with Purell! Thanks for the reminders! Love the urinating cottage cheese legged chick, just nasty.

KT said...

I had no idea you could wash sponges in the dishwasher! Nice