Bathrooms are rife with germs, with the most common culprits including E. coli, salmonella, streptococcus and bacteroidaceae (commonly known as faecal bacteria). Failing to maintain proper cleanliness can lead to health issues such as gastrointestinal distress, fever, fatigue and skin conditions.

To raise awareness about hygiene, experts from UK shower enclosures retailer Showers to You have revealed the dirtiest areas in the bathroom and how often these hotspots should be cleaned to minimise health risks.

Essential cleaning tips for germ-prone bathroom items at home

Toothbrush handle and holder
Clean weekly with soapy hot water and replace bristles every three to four months. Toothbrush handles can harbour over 12.6 million bacteria colonies, particularly if stored near the toilet. Florida dentist Dr Jordan Brown warns that flushing a toilet can spread faecal particles, contaminating nearby toothbrushes. Using a toothbrush cover or storing it in a cabinet can reduce bacterial exposure.

Bathroom basin tap handles
Disinfect daily with a sanitising wipe or spray. Tap handles, touched with unwashed hands, are hotspots for bacteria like Gram-positive rods, which can cause infections. With over 6000 bacteria per 2.5 centimetres, taps often carry more germs than the basin itself.

Light switches
Wipe weekly with disinfectant, avoiding direct spray onto the switch. Often overlooked, light switches can collect 217 bacteria per 2.5 centimetres due to frequent handling upon entering or leaving the bathroom.

Showerhead
Soak monthly in vinegar or a specialised cleaner. Showerheads are prone to limescale, mould and bacteria like Legionella. Regular cleaning prevents biofilm buildup, which can lead to rashes and irritation, particularly for those with sensitive skin.

Bathroom towels
Wash after three uses in hot water. Towels can carry 17 million bacteria within 24 hours of use.

Loofahs and shower sponges
Replace monthly or disinfect weekly. Loofahs trap moisture and dead skin cells, making them ideal for bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus, which can cause skin infections.

Shower floor
Disinfect weekly. Shower floors, exposed to dirt, urine and water droplets, harbour mould and bacteria, contributing to respiratory issues and odours.

Toilet flush handle
Disinfect daily. One of the most-touched surfaces in the bathroom, it is a significant germ carrier and requires frequent cleaning to prevent illness.

Toilet seat
In the home, wipe weekly and close the lid when flushing to reduce the spread of airborne germs. With over 235,000 bacteria colonies, the toilet seat is a prime target for regular disinfection.

The value of consistent cleaning habits

Maintaining a rigorous cleaning schedule in the bathroom not only improves hygiene but also protects against infections and illnesses caused by bacteria. By targeting high-contact areas like toothbrush holders, tap handles and towels, you can create a safer and healthier bathroom environment. Small, consistent efforts to clean these hotspots can have a significant impact on overall health and well-being.

This article first appeared on the Showers To You website.