Morina Gael It is interesting how frequently hands come in contact with objects without much notice. Cell phones are placed in the palm of your hand, pushed through parking lots in shopping carts, and transfixed from plane tray tables to (insert anything here). The CDC and World Health Organization still promote handwashing because there are a lot of surfaces we don’t see every day that could harbor bacteria, viruses, or allergens. Sometimes a few more seconds over the sink can be more impactful than you think for cold and allergy season and, of course, flu season.
Shopping Cart Handles
Many, many people come in contact with shopping cart handles every day. Some tests have found bacteria on highly trafficked public surfaces, particularly during rush hour shopping time.
Cell Phones Everywhere
There is very little cleaning as phones move from desk to kitchen and to public restrooms. Mobile devices have been shown to have the potential to pick up microbes due to their high frequency of handling during the day.
Gas Pump Buttons
High-contact surfaces include gas station keypads and pump handles. Many individuals touch these throughout their day, and washing hands after contact could decrease contact with remaining germs.
Remote Controls at Hotels
Many times, hotel remotes are handled several times between cleanings. The remote control has been a target in some hospital room inspections for hygiene issues.
Money and Loose Change
Money is always circulating and can be contaminated by dirt and bacteria or traces of different environments. The recommendation from experts is to wash hands before eating after touching bills or coins.
Elevator Buttons in Public Places
Elevator buttons are handled by hundreds of fingers every day. These tiny surfaces can be surprisingly hot spots during times of respiratory illness.
Raw Meat Packaging
The United States Department of Agriculture advises precaution when wrapping raw meat. Meat juices can splatter bacteria over adjacent work surfaces, tools, and other foods during packaging.
Pet Food Bowls
If not cleaned regularly, pet bowls may harbor bacteria. Hand washing is often advised by veterinary hygiene professionals after handling bowls and utensils used by pets and after feeding pets.
Public Touchscreens
Self-checkout screens and ticket kiosks are handy but not much utilized. Research on common public devices has indicated that microbes can survive for a short period of time on touch surfaces.
Gym Equipment Handles
Exercise equipment and weights are shared during the day. The problem may be the sweat itself, or the equipment may have contaminants on it from unwashed hands.
TV Remotes at Home
Although home remotes might not appear dirty, they’re routinely touched while eating meals, snacks, and hectic evenings. Surface cleaning and washing hands regularly may help to keep surfaces fresher.
