The perception of the risk of being infected pathogenic microorganisms is generally false. Many believe that places like the toilet bowl or door handles are the most dangerous, but studies have found that sink maybe a source of contamination much more worrying. In particular, the outlet areas of drains and faucets are prone to the accumulation of biofilms, a gel-like substance inhabited by various bacterial communities, including pathogens such as Legionella, which can cause serious infections. In this context, researchers from Flinders University have shown that household sinks contain a greater variety and quantity of water. pathogens compared to those in hospitals.
The belief that the running water keeping these surfaces clean is misleading. It is therefore essential to clean and disinfect well, because a biofilm can form if the drainage grid is not scraped and disinfected. Likewise, it is important change and disinfect scouring pads which are used for cleaning, as well as avoiding touching the drain with your hands after washing. It should be noted that the open wounds on the hands They can become infected if they come into contact with these germs, so it is essential extreme cleaning in environments where there are sick people, because a dirty sink can facilitate the development of resistant and dangerous bacteria.
The most surprising discovery about sinks
Wash your hands It is an essential practice for hygiene and health, but recent studies have revealed that sinks, especially at home, can be more contaminated than we think, putting our health at risk. A study from Flinders University in Australia indicates that the drain and area around the faucet can harbor biofilms, communities of microorganisms that adhere to surfaces.
These biofilm They can contain dangerous bacteria, including those responsible for serious infections like Legionella. Constant circulation of water can create a false sense of cleanliness, as microorganisms can persist and multiply in these humid, warm environments. Therefore, even if we wash our hands, if the sink becomes contaminated we could be exposed to harmful germs, emphasizing the importance of keeping it clean and disinfected.
The importance of washing your hands
Washing your hands is essential for prevent the spread of diseaseespecially in an environment where infections are easily transmitted. Hands often carry pathogens and contact with contaminated surfaces can transfer germs to our bodies. To protect yourself effectively, it is essential to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, which reduces the risk of infection.
The dirtiest places in the house
Cleaning your home is essential to maintaining a healthy environment, but many areas are often neglected and can accumulate high levels of germs. One of the most problematic spaces is the kitchenwhich, although generally considered a clean area, can become a breeding ground for bacteria. Surfaces such as cutting boards, counters and sinks can harbor pathogens if not properly disinfected, especially after handling raw foods.
Another critical location is the bathroom. Although toilets are the space most associated with germs, many areas around them, such as faucets, light switches and doorknobs, can be contaminated as well. A University of Connecticut study found that these surfaces are often dirtier than the toilet itself, highlighting the importance of cleaning the entire bathroom.
The TV remote control and cell phone are also items that accumulate germs because they are used frequently and rarely cleaned. Research has shown that mobile phones can contain more bacteria than a toiletwhich highlights the need to pay attention to these devices. Meanwhile, kitchen scouring pads, used for cleaning, can become one of the most contaminated items if not replaced or disinfected regularly, as microorganisms thrive in their moist environment.
For take care of hygiene at homeit is crucial to adopt more rigorous cleaning practices. For example, the sink should be thoroughly cleaned with a suitable disinfectant at least once a week, paying particular attention to the drain grate and the area around the faucet. Kitchen surfaces should be cleaned daily, especially after cooking, with products that eliminate bacteria and germs.
In conclusion, washing your hands is one of the most effective measures to prevent disease, but its effectiveness can be compromised if care is not taken. sink cleaning and other areas of the house. Recent findings on sink contamination highlight the need for more thorough cleaning practices.
