Your guide to a clean home

Here’s the low down, according to experts...

PHONES
Every day
Research has found we touch our phones up to 150 times a day, and scientists in America discovered 7,000 types of bacteria on 51 phone samples. While most are harmless, some are not.
When you use your phone it heats up, providing the perfect conditions for bacteria to multiply,

SHEETS
Once a week
We shed millions of skin cells every day, many of them in bed, and lose a litre of sweat in a typical night. Both attract dust mites that feed on it.

PILLOWS
Every three months
The inside of your pillow is like a sponge, soaking up sweat, and it becomes the perfect breeding ground for bacteria and mites.
Doctors have found that up to a third of a pillow’s weight can be made up of bugs, dead skin, mites and their faeces, and the average unwashed pillow can contain a revolting 16 species of fungi.

BEDS
Every six months

DENIM
Every five wears – cold wash and turn them inside out first

BRAS
Bras should be washed after two wears and should not be put in the machine as it may affect the elasticity

PYJAMAS
After two wears

DOGS
Every two months
Washing your dog is mainly for your benefit, as they have a robust immune system.

TEA TOWELS
After every use
Tea towels and dishcloths are the highest sources of bacterial contamination in your kitchen.

PURSES
Every week
Faecal bacteria, E.coli or skin bacteria such as MRSA can be dotted about any public place.   Even if you regularly wash your hands, you could recontaminate them when you pay for your lunch, as you put your purse on grimy surfaces.