We try our hardest to maintain proper hygiene every single day in our quest to be clean and healthy. Even though we’ve maintained these behaviors for years, we’ve never considered the possibility that they are just myths and false beliefs. What if everything we’ve been told is untrue? The efficacy of hand sanitizers, daily hair washing, and twice-daily tooth brushing are examples of hygiene practices that may be more detrimental than beneficial. As we finally dispel popular misconceptions regarding cleanliness, get ready to change the way you think about it.
Reusing Towels
Most of us use a towel to clean ourselves after taking a shower. However, your towel may not be as clean as you believe if you’re reusing it. Even though your towel is clean after a shower, moist towels provide an ideal environment for germs to grow, so putting it out to use again could expose you to dangerous bacteria. Towels should ideally not be reused or, if at all feasible, washed after each usage. If you must reuse a towel, make sure it can dry completely by hanging it or using a fast dryer cycle to stop bacterial growth.
Reusing Towels
Walking Barefoot
After a hard day, going barefoot could sound soothing, but it could be risky. If you have flat feet, tendinitis, plantar fasciitis, or Morton’s neuroma, walking without shoes can be dangerous. You may enhance your balance, sharpen your foot muscles, and awaken your senses by going barefoot indoors. However, it’s risky to walk barefoot outside, so exercise extreme caution. However, before releasing your tiny piggies, take into account your own foot health, personal hygiene, and preventing harm from sharp things.
Walking Barefoot
Toilet Seats Are Unsanitary
Which do you clean more, your toilet or your desk at work? You might want to think twice if your response is the latter. You might be surprised to learn how clean toilet seats are, both at home and in public. Even public restroom seats don’t get as dirty as surfaces we contact more frequently with our hands because our backs act as natural barriers to germs. There are 400 times more germs on desks than on public restroom chairs! Additionally, toilet seats are cleaner than toothbrush holders and kitchen chopping boards.
Toilet Seats Are Unsanitary
Not Washing Water Bottles Daily
Reusable water bottles protect our bodies from dangerous chemicals and microplastics as well as the environment from pollution. But if you don’t wash your water bottle, all those advantages vanish. In addition to posing a major health danger, bacteria that are transported from your lips to the bottle can serve as a haven for harmful fungi. Washing your water bottle every day is the greatest method to prevent unpleasant things from growing in it. Dish soap, water, and a specially made bottle brush can be used for this, although a regular sponge on a stick will also work.
Not Washing Water Bottles Daily
Trick for Breathing Hot or Cold Air
Have you ever used the “hooo” and “haaah” techniques to create hot and cold air? It’s simply hot air, so don’t hold your breath. The sound you produce or the form of your mouth have no bearing on the temperature you exhale. It all comes down to your body temperature and the air you breathe. Your breath is often heated since your lungs are a toasty 98.6°F (37°C). Inhaling cold air initially is the only way to exhale cooler air. You can disprove their theory the next time someone tries to wow you with this party trick.
Trick For Breathing Hot Or Cold Air
Moisturizing Too Much
Although you shouldn’t use too much, moisturizers can help keep your skin looking young and healthy. The skin creates moisture in the form of oils, but it reacts by making less oil on its own when it senses moisture from another source. If you do this too frequently, your skin’s natural barrier may be compromised, leading to breakouts and clogged pores. Long-term skin preservation can be achieved by moisturizing lightly and only twice a day. You can achieve smooth, clear skin with less product if you take a shower or use an exfoliating cream before moisturizing.
Moisturizing Too Much
Washing Your Hair Once a Week
The majority of specialists advise washing your hair at least twice a week, while some people insist on doing so infrequently. While underwashing can result in clogged follicles, irritation of the scalp, and even hair loss, overwashing can cause dryness and breakage. Your lifestyle, environment, and hair type all influence the optimal frequency. Some people can stretch it to every two or three days, while fine-haired people, gym goers, and people living in humid areas could require daily washing. People with curly or dry hair may need more time between washing. There is no one-size-fits-all scalp health regimen; the secret is to discover your own sweet spot.
Washing Your Hair Once A Week
Women’s Menstrual Cycles Synchronize
Did you know that women’s menstrual cycles synchronize? The origins of this myth can be seen in a 1971 Nature article. Martha McClintock asserted in it that after cohabiting for a few months, women develop menstrual synchronization. There is little to no evidence to support the theories that menstrual cycles start closer together because of pheromones or lunar phases, neither in women nor in other species. Are you curious about the truth? Over the years, anecdotal observations have shown that menstruation has a significant likelihood of overlapping.
Women’s Menstrual Cycles Synchronize
Not Cleaning Nail Clippers
After using your nail clippers, do you clean them? You ought to be, though. Nail clippers remove bacteria and debris from your nails. Bacteria can fester over time and cause an infection the next time you use them. However, don’t discard your old clippers just yet! They are reusable and cleanable. Put your clippers in boiling water or immerse them in hot water that has been combined with soap to disinfect them. Remember to use a brush to remove any debris that has adhered to the clippers. After all of that, if your clippers are still unclean, it might be time to get new ones.
Not Cleaning Nail Clippers
Obeying the Five-Second Rule
Everyone has heard the “five-second rule,” which states that food that falls to the ground can be eaten if it is picked up within five seconds. Although it is true that food gets more bacteria the longer it is on the floor, experts have repeatedly refuted the five-second rule. Eating food off the floor is riskier than eating dry food because bacteria are more likely to adhere to wet food. You’ll be shocked to hear that compared to tougher surfaces like steel or tile, carpets carry fewer bacteria to meals.
Obeying The Five Second Rule
Sugar Causes Cavities
Although sugar is frequently blamed for cavities, the reality is more nuanced. Eating and drinking sugary foods and beverages can raise your risk of cavities, but carbohydrates are the true cause of cavities. When our oral bacteria break down carbohydrates, harmful acids are released. Foods and beverages that are acidic also aid in this process. Maintaining basic oral hygiene practices, such as frequent brushing, flossing, enough hydration, and routine dental examinations, is essential to preventing cavities.
Sugar Causes Cavities
Hairiness Correlates with Intelligence
Have you heard that having body hair indicates intelligence? Don’t start growing out your chest hair just soon, though. The evidence is far from solid, despite a 22-year research conducted in India suggesting a connection between body hair and brainpower. High achievers and medical students were shown to have more hair than the ordinary person. Correlation does not, however, imply causality. Body hair growth is significantly influenced by factors such as ethnicity, hormones, and heredity. Therefore, keep in mind that actual intelligence isn’t skin deep—or hair deep, for that matter—before throwing away your razor in an attempt to increase your IQ.
Hairiness Correlates With Intelligence
Hair Washing Frequency Affects Bacterial Growth
Leaving your hair unwashed for an extended period of time is quite risky, even while overwashing it might cause problems. If left untreated, dead skin and bacteria accumulate around the hair follicles, giving hair an unpleasant odor and increasing the risk of severe rashes and infections. It’s not necessary to wash your hair every day to practice good hygiene. Depending on your hair type, washing your hair every two or three days is adequate.
Hair Washing Frequency Affects Bacterial Growth
Any Hand Sanitizer is Handy
Having a bottle of hand sanitizer on your desk at all times is quite acceptable. However, how can you be certain that the bacteria in your sanitizer cache are being repelled? It turns out that hand sanitizers with less than 60% isopropyl are unable to effectively combat microscopic threats. A disinfectant must be the primary ingredient in any effective hand sanitizer. However, take caution—some hand sanitizers contain dangerous substances like methanol. Make sure your hand sanitizer is safe to use by reading the ingredients.
Any Hand Sanitizer Is Handy
Taking Hot Showers
After a hard day, taking a hot shower might help you unwind, but did you know that hot water can be bad for your skin? Particularly in cold weather, hot water deprives the skin of its natural oils, resulting in dryness and irritation. Limiting hot showers to two minutes is the best option if you are unable to completely avoid them. To keep your skin hydrated, moisturizing after a shower is also beneficial.
Taking Hot Showers
Using Mouthwash Too Often
Did you believe that it was beneficial for dental hygiene to use mouthwash more than once a day? Well, reconsider. Mouthwashing more than once per 24 hours can have long-term negative effects, although antiseptic rinses are an efficient method of eliminating bacteria and preventing infections and gingivitis. Overuse of mouthwash can result in oral cancer, dry mouth, sensitivity, ulcers, and stains on your teeth. Additionally, it can make cavities and bad breath worse—things you’re probably trying to avoid in the first place.
Using Mouthwash Too Often
Keeping a Toothbrush for Too Long
Even when we clean our teeth with toothbrushes, they might behave as a petri dish for microorganisms. You should avoid storing your toothbrush next to other people’s toothbrushes, sharing toothbrushes (yuck!), and keeping your toothbrush for an extended period of time because of the possibility of infection and other health consequences. Your toothbrush should not be kept for more than three months. To determine whether it’s time to get a new toothbrush, keep an eye out for indicators of wear and tear, such as frayed bristles. Additionally, try to keep your toothbrush away from toilets and in a dry location (we’ll talk about why later).
Keeping A Toothbrush For Too Long
Eyelash Extensions Can’t Hurt Your Eyes
Although eyelash extensions are amazing, improper maintenance can have serious consequences. Dust and grime can be drawn to dirty extensions, resulting in swelling and scabs. Like head lice, they may also be home to mites that cause redness and itching. In addition to weakening your natural lashes, neglected extensions can draw germs and fungi, raising your risk of infection, irritation, and inflammation. It’s important to restrict water exposure, especially in the first 24 hours following application, avoid oil-based products and waterproof mascara, and clean your extensions on a regular basis with a mild, foam-based cleanser.
Eyelash Extensions Can’t Hurt Your Eyes
Soaking Dishes
Leaving dishes to soak in the sink may seem practical, but it can serve as a haven for bacteria. Bacterial growth is ideal in this warm, humid climate, which could pose health problems. Since grease and debris are simpler to remove from warm cookware, it is best to wash dishes as soon as possible after usage. Before soaking dishes, make sure to throw away any leftovers, and after soaking, make sure the sink is well cleaned. Maintaining a clean and secure atmosphere is just as important as cooking when it comes to good kitchen hygiene.
Soaking Dishes
Not Cleaning Your Keyboard
Let’s talk about keyboards. Your desktop or laptop keyboard isn’t germ-free, even if it may appear clean. It’s imperative to regularly clean your keyboard with a disinfectant wipe, regardless of whether you can see how dirty it is. You should clean behind the keys in addition to removing those annoying germs. Use an air duster, a cheap can of compressed air available at electronics retailers, to get rid of any debris caught below your keys if you are unable to remove them.
Not Cleaning Your Keyboard
Sleeping With Pajamas
Is it acceptable to sleep naked? Not only is the answer “yes,” but sleeping without underwear is actually advised. Tight clothing can trap moisture in delicate regions while you sleep, which is particularly dangerous for women because they are more susceptible to bacterial infections. If you use underwear to sleep for comfort, it’s best to wash or change them every night, even if it’s preferable to sleep naked to allow your body to breathe. Comfort is crucial at all times!
Sleeping With Pajamas
Brushing Your Teeth Harder is Better
Your teeth will be cleaner the harder you brush them. It makes sense, doesn’t it? Conversely, brushing your teeth too vigorously removes enamel and raises the risk of gum disease and cavities. There’s no need to brush your teeth too violently or forcefully. With a typical amount of pressure, any plaque accumulation on your teeth should be removed. It could be time to get a new toothbrush if your old one has ragged or softened bristles.
Brushing Your Teeth Harder Is Better
Sharing Your Hairbrush
Sharing your hairbrush with your closest friend is obviously not a good idea because it’s no secret that hairbrushes get soiled easily. However, using someone else’s hairbrush is dangerous in addition to being disgusting. Hairbrushes have the ability to spread bacteria, fungus, and viruses, which could lead to issues with the skin and scalp. Sharing hairbrushes raises the risk of lice and other illnesses like ringworm, scabies, and staph infections since the scalp is a breeding ground for dangerous germs. The lesson is straightforward: to preserve proper hygiene, don’t share hairbrushes.
Sharing Your Hairbrush
Feather Dusters Are Effective at Cleaning
The traditional, reliable instrument we use to clear dust from difficult-to-reach areas and cracks is a feather duster. But what if we told you that reminiscence is all that makes them appealing? Yes, feather dusters are rather inefficient at getting rid of dust. Feather dusters disperse dust, propelling it into the air, resulting in cross-contamination and respiratory irritation. Instead, consider wearing microfiber clothing, which is more efficient at capturing dust particles and is also more environmentally friendly.
Feather Dusters Are Effective At Cleaning
Wearing Acrylic Nails
Although they are gorgeous, acrylic nails have a drawback. Your natural nails are more prone to break or become infected if you wear artificial nails for an extended period of time. The longer you leave them on, the more time germs have to grow and damage your nails. Every two to three weeks, it is recommended to take a vacation from wearing artificial nails. It’s advisable to take a long vacation from using acrylics if you see signs of your nails weakening, such as lifting, peeling, or chipping.
Wearing Acrylic Nails
Not Brushing Your Teeth for Long Enough
When it comes to brushing your teeth, timing is everything. Most people only clean their teeth for about 45 seconds, even though doctors advise brushing for two minutes! Timing is crucial, but it’s not everything. Improve your brushing technique by using brief strokes, paying close attention to the angle, and making sure you cover the whole surface of your tongue and teeth. The two minutes you spend brushing your teeth are a priceless investment.
Not Brushing Your Teeth For Long Enough
Using a Dirty Hairbrush
Dust, dead skin cells, and product residue are all accumulated by hairbrushes, which can irritate the scalp and cause hair breakage. Scalp infections may result from germs and fungi found on dirty hairbrushes. However, there is an easy way to avoid these risks: clean your hairbrush on a regular basis! Use a little brush to remove the residue after soaking your hairbrush in warm water with a light shampoo. After that, give it a good rinse and let it air dry entirely. Keep in mind that keeping your hair and scalp healthy greatly depends on how clean your hairbrush is.
Using A Dirty Hairbrush
Not Cleaning Your Phone
Since our phones are among the things we touch the most, they are a breeding ground for bacteria and grime. You should think about cleaning your phone every day if you don’t already. Phones have more bacteria per square inch than self-checkout screens, doorknobs, and even toilet seats—none of which we hold up to our faces as we do with phones. Every day, you should use an antibacterial solution to wipe your phone. Before cleaning your phone, make sure it is unplugged, and after disinfecting it, use an absorbent lint-free cloth to dry it off.
Not Cleaning Your Phone
Touching Your Face Often
Between 500 to 800 times a day on average, we touch our faces. Touching your face can be a coping strategy for anxiety, a reflex, or an unconscious way to communicate. Although this practice might appear harmless, it is unsanitary and can result in lung infections, viruses, and skin rashes. While touching your face with clean hands is OK, you can prevent it by keeping your hands occupied, wearing jewelry or gloves, or applying a scented hand lotion or perfume that serves as a reminder of your unhygienic behavior.
Touching Your Face Often
Using a Dirty Makeup Brush
Maintaining healthy skin requires cleaning your makeup brushes, which goes beyond simply applying makeup more effectively. Bacteria, grime, and old makeup build up on dirty brushes, which can clog your pores and result in infections or breakouts. Maintaining the cleanliness of your brushes not only prolongs their life but also lowers the chance of health and skin concerns. Your skin will look healthier and apply makeup more effectively if you wipe off extra makeup and clean the brushes with a warm water-shampoo mixture.
Using A Dirty Makeup Brush
Not Cleaning the Office
Everyday surfaces we come into contact with harbor bacteria, particularly when such areas are shared. It’s crucial to maintain clean work areas by routinely cleaning everything from pens to water coolers. It’s excellent to use disinfection wipes on surfaces like desks and armrests, but this is insufficient; a potent hand sanitizer can help. After lunch with Jill from HR, using hand sanitizer is an excellent technique to get rid of any lingering bacteria when soap and water are out of reach.
Not Cleaning The Office
Toothpaste Tubes’ Hidden Messages
Have you ever noticed the small colorful rectangles at the end of your toothpaste tubes? Rumor has it that these squares provide information about the toothpaste’s constituents, such as whether they are derived naturally or contain medication. Our goal is to uncover the truth about these enigmatic tiny squares. In actuality, they have no significance—at least not for us humans. These squares are used by light sensors to locate the tube’s end during the production process so that the machine can cut and seal them correctly.
Toothpaste Tubes’ Hidden Messages
Not Cleaning TV Remotes
It’s soothing to watch your favorite show, but after discovering what’s on your remote, you might not feel as at ease. Remotes for televisions can get very dirty, especially if they are shared by roommates or family. Cleaning them should be done at least once a month and if someone in your home becomes ill. In addition to bacteria, muck can accumulate around the buttons of remote controls. For this reason, routine deep cleanings with a toothpick and disinfectant wipes are necessary. You can then resume viewing Netflix after drying your remote.
Not Cleaning TV Remotes
Storing Your Toothbrush By the Toilet
Although toothbrushes are essential oral hygiene equipment, many individuals store them next to the toilet, which is the dirtiest object in the room. It’s normal to keep your toothbrush in a cup by the sink, but when it’s in the same space as a commode, leaving it out in the open might cause major issues. Water, urine, feces, and germs are released into the air when the toilet is flushed. Your toothbrush is probably getting soaked by those repulsive fluids if you can see it from your toilet. It’s as easy as storing your toothbrush in the medicine cabinet to avoid this.
Storing Your Toothbrush By The Toilet