The germiest places in your home aren't where you think - here's how to keep them clean

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When you think of the dirtiest places in your home, you probably think of the toilet seat or the kitchen sink. And while these areas harbor germs, the places you touch most often are the worst offenders.

Doorknobs, doorknobs and doorknobs are unsuspecting pieces of hardware that harbor germs. This hidden dirt on door handles and knobs can lead to the formation of bacteria, increasing the risk of germs spreading in the colder months. With a few cleaning tips and tricks, you can avoid unnecessary germs in winter and keep your thermometer neatly in your medicine cabinet.

Here, Rossella Marzocchella, interior designer and senior kitchen designer at Decor & Decor , shares her tips for keeping your home hygienic and your hardware in top condition.

A fertile ground for germs

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You may be surprised, but door handles, especially in high-traffic areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and entryways, can be a breeding ground for more dirt and bacteria than you think.

It's easy to overlook these little accessories in your normal cleaning routine, but they are the most frequently used touchpoints in any home. Every time they grab, push, pull, and twist, they accumulate dirt.

"Every member of the house touches the door handles countless times a day. You are exposed to bacteria, oils, food particles and other contaminants. However, most people forget to clean them," says Marzocchella. "Regular cleaning can make a big difference in maintaining hygiene in your home. »

Handle with care

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It's no surprise how dirty handles can get considering how often they are touched. Kitchen door and cupboard handles touch between cooking sessions, collecting food particles, oils and bacteria. Bathroom handles are particularly hot spots because they are touched before and after washing hands.

Marzocchella says: "Unlike other areas of the home that are visibly dirty, dirt on door handles can be invisible, making it even more important to clean them regularly." »

In addition to the risk of germ buildup, handles also attract layers of dust and grease that can affect their appearance over time. Keeping them clean will maintain their condition and ensure you protect your home from unnecessary insects.

How often should handles be cleaned?

Decor & Decor recommends cleaning door handles and knobs at least once a week. However, if you have a busy home or small children, it's worth cleaning high-traffic areas more frequently to reduce the risk of spreading germs throughout the home. And if someone isn't feeling well, consider cleaning door handles and knobs daily to prevent someone else from contracting the virus.

How to clean handles to remove dirt.

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Daily cleaning

Daily cleaning with a soft microfiber cloth is the easiest way to remove dirt, fingerprints, and oil accumulated throughout the day. Marzocchella advises: "Pay particular attention to kitchen handles that are touched multiple times while cooking and bathroom handles where bacteria thrive." »

Weekly deep cleaning

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For a more thorough cleaning, the handles can be cleaned once a week with a stronger solution. Marzocchella recommends using a disinfectant or a natural solution such as vinegar and water, adding that this is especially important in high-traffic areas such as kitchens, bathrooms and entry doors.

Vinegar-water solution: Mix equal parts vinegar and water, spray on the handle and wipe. It is ideal for handles with accumulated dirt.

Non-abrasive disinfectants: Strong abrasives can damage surfaces. Therefore, Marzocchella recommends avoiding bleach-based products, which can damage delicate materials, and opting for non-abrasive cleaners for metals such as brass, bronze or chrome . They clean the surface without damaging the surface.

Focus on highly sensitive areas

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Prioritize high-traffic areas that are frequently touched, such as: B. Kitchen cabinet handles, bathroom drawers and entry doors to detect high usage. This will help reduce the spread of germs.

Don't forget the details

Drawer slides, sliding door sets, and even the smallest kitchen cabinet knobs can collect dust and dirt. To clean these tight spaces, use a small, soft-bristled brush or microfiber cloth. This ensures that every part of your hardware is as clean as the surfaces you use most.

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Editors, Houses

Camilla Sharman has worked in publishing and marketing for over 30 years and has covered a wide range of business and consumer sectors as a columnist, content writer and freelance writer.

As a business journalist, Camilla has researched stories in many different areas, from the jewelry industry to finance and technology to charity and art. No matter the topic, you love diving deep and learning the ins and outs of different topics and then translating your research into engaging content that informs the reader. When she's not in the kitchen experimenting with a new recipe in her free time, she stays fit in the gym. Whether in the pool, stretching during a yoga class or on a spin bike – exercise is your moment of relaxation. He also loves being outside and when he's not playing in his garden, he hops on his bike for a leisurely ride.

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