Top 10 germiest objects to avoid

While many health professionals are reminding us to wash our hands more thoroughly and frequently — and to support your hard working immune system with daily supplements like new Immunity-FX, from the makers of Cold-FX — still other researchers are sounding the alarm bell about detrimental behaviour that may not occur to us. For example, here are some everyday situations to avoid:

1. Soap Dispensers Most public containers are rarely cleaned and dirty-hands cause bacteria to grow exponentially as soap scum builds. Be sure to scrub hands vigorously for at least 20 seconds.

2. Buttons: Tiny, but readily offensive on elevators, phones, vending and bank machines. Disinfect your hands immediately after use.

3. Water Fountains: Since sick people are told to drink lots of water, a public fountain is often a germ depot. Research has shown that a spigot can carry twice as much bacteria as a toilet seat. Instead, take your own water with you.

4. Shopping Carts: Ready potential to cross contaminate between the hands, face and food. E. coli bacterium is common, so wipe cart and hands with a sanitizer.

5. Restaurant Menu: Germs can survive on a hard surface for 18 hours and menus are rarely cleaned. Keep them away from your plate and flatware and wash your hands once you’ve ordered.

6. Ketchup: Since many people don’t wash their hands before eating, the condiment bottles can be crawling with germs. Do the job the eaterie should be doing and wipe them down with a sanitizer before use.

7. Purses & Wallets: In public places, especially restrooms, place your purse on a chair or hook, not the floor. Paper money especially carries germs so wash your hands or sanitize after a purchase.

8. Phones: Due to saliva, the mouthpiece is usually dirtier than the handle. If using any phone but your own, clean it first.

9. Remote Controls: Did you know that a TV remote control is often the dirtiest object in a hotel room? Disinfect it at home and certainly when you travel.

10. Laundry Machines: To kill germs effectively, especially in underwear, use very hot water and dry for a full 45 minutes. Without this, wet clothes can leave germs all over your hands.