WASHINGTON — You may think you’re being clean when you go through your
morning routine, but your grooming habits may be a
breeding ground for bacteria.
Prevention magazine says many people fail to
replace
lots of items in a timely manner, or they just shouldn’t use them.
Toothbrushes: Replace them every three to four months, and sooner if
you’ve
been sick. Toothbrushes are laden with bacteria, saliva
Loofahs: Don’t bother to use them. They can breed bacteria and yeast
and can lead to infected hair follicles.
Razor blades: Replace them every two weeks or every five to 10 uses.
They breed more germs after you use them and let them sit in the bathroom.
Keep them clean by rinsing them, dipping them in rubbing alcohol and drying
them with a paper towel.
Hairbrushes: Remove the hair weekly and wash them in warm water with
shampoo to remove dead skins and oils.
Makeup brushes: Every two weeks, wash them with shampoo to remove the
buildup of makeup and germs.
Prevention also offers suggestions for footcare
and body waxing products.
Doctors recommend sanitizing sinks and bathtubs.
Follow @WTOP and @WTOPliving on Twitter and WTOP on Facebook.