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More than 200 thousand species of bacteria live in our homes, all of which can enter the human body - for example, with water in the shower. But contrary to popular belief, most of them are safe or neutral, some are useful, and only a small part of bacteria can cause disease under certain conditions. In this article, we understand the types of bacteria that live in homes, as well as how to deal with them.
Types of bacteria that live in homes
It is impossible to find a surface in the house that is free of bacteria. But not everything is as terrible as it might seem at first glance. Thus, scientists have found that the most common bacteria living in homes are four types.
1. Micrococci
They were found on kitchen surfaces, in microwaves, food products and in the home air, but it’s too early to panic. Micrococci are considered relatively harmless bacteria; they also live on human skin and mucous surfaces. By the way, micrococci often cause an unpleasant odor of sweat in people.
It is believed that micrococci are safe for a healthy person - they are non-pathogenic and are present in the normal microflora of people. However, they can cause diseases, but only if the immune system is significantly weakened.
2. Staphylococcus
Many of us have probably heard about staphylococcus, and the word usually causes horror and panic. However, in addition to Staphylococcus aureus, which causes complex diseases, the genus of these bacteria includes dozens of other species.
They live almost everywhere, including on our skin, nose, hair, and are also part of the microflora of healthy people. They usually do not cause infections, but there are also pathogenic species that are dangerous to humans. In addition to Staphylococcus aureus, this is a strain of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (it is resistant to antibiotics), Staphylococcus epidermidis and others.
3. Bacilli
Another genus of bacteria often found in homes is bacilli. There are many types of bacilli, most of them are harmless. Some, by the way, are even useful and are used in industry and food.
For example, bacilli help in the preparation of Japanese soy porridge Natto. We are talking about Bacillus subtilis, which, moreover, lives not only on surfaces, but also in our intestines, and has a positive effect on the immune system. However, some types of bacilli are actually considered dangerous - they can cause poisoning and infections.
4. Pseudomonas
Pseudomonas are found almost everywhere, including in homes, especially in damp sinks, bathtubs, and shower heads. They are considered opportunistic, which means they are practically harmless for a healthy person.
Even the most famous type - Pseudomonas aeruginosa - is not so scary for healthy people. If we are not talking about constant exposure to the body, or about people with reduced immunity and concomitant diseases, it is believed that Pseudomonas aeruginosa simply leaves the body after entering it.
In addition to those described above, the house may contain such unpleasant neighbors as salmonella and E. coli. Most often they come to us with food. Regular hygiene helps to avoid danger.
Where are the most bacteria in the house
Not all types of bacteria are dangerous to humans; some, as we have found, are even beneficial. However, some of them can still become a source of danger in the house if people with reduced immunity live in it. This does not mean at all that you need to strive to get rid of absolutely all bacteria, which is simply impossible and even harmful. But knowing dangerous places by sight is still useful.
Mainly, dangerous bacteria can enter the home on the soles of shoes and clothes, on dirty hands and skin, with pets and even food. Here are typical places where bacteria accumulate in the home:
1. No, this is not a toilet
It would seem, what other place in the house can be called the most contaminated with bacteria? Alas, according to experts, this is not a toilet. Usually, enough attention is paid to cleaning the toilet, and more aggressive means are used.
Towels and other items near the toilet can be much more dangerous, especially if the lid is left open while flushing. Then bacteria can rise up to a height of up to two meters, and then spread throughout the room, including getting on the toothbrush.
Therefore, before flushing, it is better to close the lid each time, and textiles near the toilet, in particular towels, are recommended to be changed at least once a week.
2. Cutting board and other kitchen utensils
The cutting board is considered one of the most bacteria-rich places in the house. Especially if you use wood products that have cracks that are difficult to clean. This group also includes dishwashing sponges and rags. We usually don't clean them as often or thoroughly.
In addition, bacteria, including dangerous ones, can accumulate in the kitchen sink - for example, many people wash raw meat under running water and then simply rinse the surface.
The kitchen deserves a little more of our attention. Sponges and rags should be changed every week, cutting boards require cleaning with products, and the sink requires constant care. Places inhabited by bacteria include the refrigerator handle, kitchen blades, and coffee machine tray; they also need regular cleaning.
3. Door handles, switches, smartphones
We simply use all these surfaces most often, including sometimes touching them with dirty hands. A smartphone is actually the thing that spends the whole day with us, including on the street.
Other electronic devices can be included in this group: TV remote control, laptops, keyboards, computer mice. They are rarely cleaned but often used.
In your routine, dedicate time to cleaning these surfaces as well - during cleaning, they often and completely undeservedly become “blind spots”.
When cleaning, it is not at all necessary to try to overcome all the bacteria in the house - this is pointless and even harmful. However, it is worth focusing on the “red” zones and paying more attention to them.
Remedies will come to the rescue that will not only get rid of dirt and help fight germs, but also will not leave a pungent odor or marks on surfaces. YokoSun products are just like that - their formula is designed specifically for every corner of your home. More disinfectant properties for bathroom and kitchens, light and environmentally friendly sprays – for children's room. It’s easy to fight germs with a reliable assistant and a competent approach.