Your bathroom may seem like the cleanest space in your home, but it could be hiding items that negatively impact your health. From everyday tools to hygiene products, many items we use regularly can harbour bacteria, cause irritation, or even disrupt our body’s natural balance. Regarding the same, an expert warns about the hidden dangers lurking in your bathroom and shares insights on what you should discard immediately to protect your health. Read ahead to explore how these seemingly harmless items could be making you sick and what you can do about it.
Bathroom Items You Should Toss Right Away
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Dr Saurabh Sethi, Gastroenterologist, Hayward Clinic, California, highlights three common bathroom items that could harm your health if not replaced on time:
Old Toothbrushes:
According to Dr Sethi, "75% of people use their toothbrushes longer than the recommended three months. After this period, toothbrushes lose up to 30% of their cleaning power, and bacteria start building up on the bristles." Using an old toothbrush can lead to oral infections and gum disease. If it has been three or four months since you last replaced your toothbrush, it’s time to toss it.
Dull Razor Blades:
Dull razors are more than just ineffective—they can cause significant skin irritation. The expert explains, "Dull razor blades cause 10 times more skin irritation and increase the risk of cuts and infections." Replace your razor blade after five to seven uses to avoid skin damage.
Antimicrobial Mouthwash:
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While antimicrobial mouthwash may seem like a good idea for oral hygiene, studies show it can harm beneficial bacteria in your mouth. Dr Sethi adds, "This disruption can affect the balance of your gut microbiome." Consider switching to a milder mouthwash or consulting your dentist for alternatives.
ALSO READ: Gym or Toilet Seat: Which Is Dirtier? A Doctor Explains Which Has More Bacteria
The Hidden Dangers of Bathroom Hygiene
Beyond these items, other overlooked factors in bathroom hygiene can also pose risks:
- Toilet Aerosols: Flushing with the lid open can release bacteria-filled aerosols into the air, contaminating nearby surfaces like toothbrushes and towels.
- Biofilm Build-Up: Areas like sinks and toilet rims can harbour biofilms that contain harmful pathogens such as Salmonella and E. coli.
- Expired Products: Skincare and haircare products past their expiration date can lose effectiveness or cause skin reactions.
A Study on Bathroom Hygiene
A study published in PubMed revealed that poor bathroom hygiene significantly increases exposure to harmful pathogens. For example, flushing toilets without closing the lid can eject bacteria-laden aerosols into the air, which may settle on nearby surfaces like toothbrushes and towels. The study also found that biofilm build-up in sinks and toilet bowls harbours persistent pathogens that can survive for weeks. Regular cleaning with disinfectants was shown to reduce these risks significantly.
Expert Tips for a Healthier Bathroom
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Dr Sethi offers practical advice on maintaining a cleaner and healthier bathroom:
- Replace Items Regularly: Change toothbrushes every three months, and razors after five to seven uses, and check expiration dates on all products.
- Close the Toilet Lid Before Flushing: This simple habit reduces the spread of bacteria-filled aerosols.
- Disinfect High-Touch Surfaces: Clean areas like sink handles, toilet seats, and showerheads weekly with disinfectants.
- Ventilate Your Bathroom: Proper ventilation helps prevent mould growth and reduces humidity levels that promote bacterial growth.
Conclusion
Your bathroom might be a hidden source of health risks if you’re not careful about what you keep and how often you replace certain items. As Dr Sethi points out, simple changes like replacing old toothbrushes, dull razors, and harmful mouthwashes can make a big difference in maintaining your overall health. Combine these habits with regular cleaning and proper hygiene practices to ensure your bathroom is truly a safe space for you and your family. It’s time to take action—declutter your bathroom today for a healthier tomorrow!