Germ-Proof Yourself and Stay Healthy All Winter

Using Hand Sanitizers

No question about it: Hand washing gets rid of germs. Studies show scrubbing with soap and water for 15 seconds before eating and after using rest rooms cuts the risk of infection 10 fold! But when you can’t get to a sink, use an alcohol-based hand gel like Purell or Avant. They destroy up to 83% of germs in 10 seconds! They’re so effective!

Sanitizing Your Cellphone

Sanitizing your cell phone and your home phone. Your remote control and any other gadgets that are commonly shared. In a recent study, one in five cell phones tested positive for dangerous types of drug-resistant bacteria. To de-germ shared devices, wipe them at least once a week with disinfecting wipes—not sprays or liquids, which might damage internal components.

Cleaning Your Shower Curtain

Moisture-loving bacteria and mold breed like wildfire inside damp plastic and fabric folds. In fact, a surprising University of Colorado study found millions of microbes on every inch of shower curtains, 80% of which were potentially harmful bugs that could become airborne and easily breathe! Eliminate the danger by tossing your shower curtain into the washing machine once a week, then hanging it back in the tub to dry.

Scrubbing Your Produce

Rinse off all fruits and veggies, even thick-skinned types. Research shows the skins on produce can harbor E. coli, salmonella and other microorganisms. Use a scrub brush and running water to clean potatoes, carrots and other sturdy produce, and soak more fragile foods, such as berries, in a bowl of water containing a few tablespoons of lemon juice before rinsing and eating.

Wiping Down Your Desk

Office workstations contain up to 400 times more bacteria than bathroom surfaces. In fact, the spot on your desk where you rest your hand can harbor up to 10 million bacteria! To protect yourself, keep disinfecting wipes handy, and give your desk, fax and copy machines a swipe each day. That’s all it takes to cut bacteria levels 99% or more within 24 hours.

Tossing Your Toothbrush

Besides being a “trap” for airborne cold and flu viruses, it can become contaminated with germs from other family members’ brushes, microbiologists say. The simple fix: Stock up on an economical store brand, so you can change to a fresh brush every month.

TIP: Dip your toothbrush in hydrogen peroxide once a week, then store it upright, so it can air-dry. “It’s very difficult for germs to survive on dry surfaces—and peroxide quickly kills any bacteria and viruses that do.

Shunning Restroom Doors

If you’re in a public bathroom, be assured that bacteria are clinging to every surface, even the walls. Your best defense: Once you’ve washed your hands, don’t touch anything. Use a paper towel to turn off the faucet and to grab the door handle.