Good hygiene is important for staying healthy, but there are some habits many of us overlook. These little things can have a big impact on our well-being if we don’t pay attention to them. In this list, we’ll highlight 12 hygiene habits that most people skip but are actually very important. By adding these habits to your routine, you can improve your hygiene and feel better overall. Let’s take a closer look at these often-missed steps to better hygiene.
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Cleaning Your Phone
We take our phones everywhere, from the kitchen to the bathroom, and they pick up a lot of germs along the way. Yet, many people forget to clean them regularly. Wiping down your phone with a disinfectant wipe can remove bacteria and viruses that might make you sick. It’s a simple habit that can help keep your hands and face cleaner since we touch our phones so often.
Washing Hands Properly
A quick rinse under the tap isn’t enough to get your hands clean. Many people don’t wash their hands for long enough or miss parts like the backs of the hands and between the fingers. To wash your hands properly, scrub with soap for at least 20 seconds, making sure to cover all areas. Proper hand washing helps prevent the spread of germs and keeps you healthier.
Flossing Daily
Brushing your teeth is great, but it doesn’t reach all the places where food and plaque can hide. Flossing daily is important for removing particles between your teeth and preventing gum disease and cavities. It might seem like an extra step, but it only takes a couple of minutes and can make a big difference in your oral health.
Changing Bed Sheets Regularly
We spend a lot of time in our beds, and our sheets can collect sweat, dead skin cells, and dust mites. Changing and washing your bed sheets weekly helps keep your sleeping environment clean and can improve your overall hygiene. Fresh sheets also feel great and can help you sleep better.
Cleaning Makeup Brushes
Makeup brushes can build up bacteria, oils, and old makeup over time. If you don’t clean them regularly, they can cause breakouts and skin infections. Washing your brushes with mild soap and water every couple of weeks keeps them clean and helps your skin stay healthy.
Replacing Toothbrushes
Toothbrushes don’t last forever. Over time, they can become less effective and harbor bacteria. It’s a good idea to replace your toothbrush every three months or sooner if the bristles are frayed. Also, if you’ve been sick, get a new toothbrush to avoid re-infection.
Disinfecting High-Touch Surfaces
Doorknobs, light switches, and remote controls are some of the most touched surfaces in our homes, yet they often get overlooked during cleaning. Regularly disinfecting these high-touch areas helps reduce the spread of germs and keeps your home a healthier place.
Washing Reusable Water Bottles
Reusable water bottles are great for the environment, but they need to be washed daily. Bacteria can grow inside them, especially if you fill them with more than just water. Give your bottle a good scrub with soap and hot water every day to keep it clean and safe to use.
Cleaning Under Fingernails
Your fingernails can trap dirt and germs, even if your hands look clean. It’s important to clean under your nails regularly to maintain good hand hygiene. A nail brush or even a quick scrub with a soapy washcloth can help keep your nails clean.
Showering After Exercise
Working out is great for your health, but sweating can lead to bacteria buildup on your skin. Showering promptly after exercise helps wash away sweat and bacteria, preventing body odor and skin infections. It’s a refreshing way to cool down and take care of your skin.
Wiping Down Groceries
Grocery store shelves and carts can carry a lot of germs. Wiping down your groceries before putting them away can help reduce the risk of bringing those germs into your home. It’s a simple step that can help keep your kitchen and food preparation areas cleaner.
Cleaning Earbuds
We use earbuds all the time, but they can accumulate earwax and bacteria. Regularly cleaning them with a gentle disinfectant or a damp cloth can help prevent ear infections and keep your ears healthy. It’s a small habit that can make a big difference in your personal hygiene.
Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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