by Catalogs.com Info Guru Rosemary O’Brien

As we head into cold and flu season, we need to make sure the surfaces of our bathrooms at home and at work are as clean as possible to avoid spreading germs.

Not all germs are harmful, but the illness-causing viruses and bacteria that live in high-traffic areas such as your bathroom should not be ignored. Take control of your cleaning routine to avoid spreading illness throughout your home or workplace by trying these tips.

10. Toothbrush Hygiene

Did you know your toothbrush can be a breeding ground for germs? Studies show that when you flush your toilet, a fine mist can spread through the air and fall on your toothbrush. Since we are often focused on cleaning the toilet, our toothbrush gets missed. A UV toothbrush sanitizer kills up to 99.9% of germs on toothbrushes using UV light.

9. Daily Chore

One of the best ways to get rid of germs in the bathroom is to clean as you go. Wash down the bathroom sink tops each day after everyone has finished getting ready for the day. Using an antibacterial wipes that are strong enough to scrub is a good idea because it is quick to lift everything off the counter and wipe it down before you leave the bathroom at least once per day.

8. Bleach

Bleach is always a good sanitizer, but make sure you never mix it with ammonia because it can cause a dangerous reaction. WebMD suggests mixing no more than 1 cup of bleach to a gallon of water to disinfect countertops and toilets. Wipe it down with the solution and then let it air-dry or wipe it again with a clean cloth or paper towel.

7. Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide and vinegar work well, too, but never mix these two chemicals either. Mix 1 part vinegar or hydrogen peroxide with water and wipe down surfaces the same way as with the bleach above, but if using hydrogen peroxide, make sure to test it in an unseen area first because it might discolor the surface.

6. Baking Soda

Baking soda is one of the natural cleaning supplies that is one of the most versatile. It is a natural abrasive, so it helps scrub away germs as it sanitizes surfaces. Try cleaning the grime off the tub by mixing four tablespoons of baking soda and one quart of warm water into a paste and then scrubbing your tub. You can even pour a little dry baking soda on a wet sponge to help remove soap scum.

5. Lemons

Here is one of the more pleasant ways to get rid of germs in the bathroom and it leaves behind a fresh scent. Use lemons! A quick and dirty tip to clean your toilet is to sprinkle half a cup of Borax in the toilet bowl and then squeeze a lemon directly on it. You can find Borax in the laundry aisle at the grocery store. Flush when finished.

4. Paper Towels

Using the same cloth or even the same antibacterial wipe is not a good idea. Cleaning the faucet and then cleaning the door handle, for example, only helps to spread the bacteria around the bathroom. Use a fresh wipe or a paper towel for each area you clean, especially when cleaning handles which are used the most often.

3. Disinfectant Spray

Don’t forget to spray with disinfectant. Spraying with a surface disinfectant that is EPA registered to kill bacteria is a must, especially if something like the flu has hit your house. An article in Good Housekeeping Magazine advises to kill household germs you should spray door knobs, faucet handles and the handle of the toilet bowl and make sure you leave it on to air dry. The germs are killed as the spray dries, so don’t wipe it off.

2. Go Natural

There are a number of natural cleaners on the market today. Check out the top organic and natural household cleaning products to find natural cleaners that will not only clean your house, but like that lemon mentioned above, keep it smelling fresh as well.

1. Wear Gloves

Make sure you clean while covered or you may spread the germs you are trying to eradicate. Cover your arms and legs, and be sure to wear gloves while you are at it. You don’t want to accidentally touch your face, for example, and make yourself ill by spreading bacteria or viruses.

Your bathroom can be a germ factory if you don’t keep it clean. It doesn’t matter if you use cleaners made from items you have in your pantry or buy a few cleaning products. Follow these ways to get rid of germs in the bathroom and you may reduce illnesses such as cold and flu in your house this season.