Stay healthy: Avoid the top 5 household bacteria carriers

Toothbrushes

The problem: Our mouths are full of bacteria, which can transfer to our brushes after a cleaning. Brushes are also often sitting out on a shelf our counter, so if you’re washing your toddler’s hands post-playdate, for example, splashes can hit your toothbrush.

The solution: Allow the brush to air-dry between brushings in a drawer or medicine cabinet, not on the counter or near items like cleaning products that can get onto the brush. “Also, a good hot water rinse after brushing never hurts,” says Eleanor Wilson, president of the Ottawa-based Canadian Public Health Association. “But also remember to change them every few months, and after someone’s been sick, particularly if it’s gastrointestinal.”