Anyone who knows me knows that I am a huge fan of beneficial bacteria. The more organic and probiotic-friendly, the better, and that’s why I admittedly loathe hand sanitizer. That being said, I realize that some of my most commonly used items are absolutely teeming with germs, and while I’m generally pretty microbe-friendly, that doesn’t mean I have a death wish. I’m pretty happy about the whole "discovering the cause of the plague" thing, and I’m undeniably grateful that it’s not really a common thing anymore. On a lesser level, I don’t want your flu virus. Please, keep it to yourself.
If you think your bathroom is hands down the dirtiest place in your home, think again. A lot of the same germs and bacteria that chill there are hanging out on the items that you use on a daily basis, and they can often be the cause of whatever you’ve caught in the past couple months. Nonetheless, never fear. In this case, America’s war on germs is a good thing, and that’s why I’ve compiled a list of some of the best and most natural ways to keep your germiest surfaces clean and sterilized, no matter how often your fingers make contact with them.
Sanitize Phone With Screen-Friendly Wipes
Wireless Wipes, $2, Amazon
Your phone screen is one of the grossest things you touch (I’m talking to you, Toilet Pinteresters) and that’s why the antibacterial Wireless Wipes are essential. They’re entirely safe for screens, but they still manage to get rid of dirt and germs from the surface of your phone — and they won’t streak, either. This particular kind has a pleasant green tea scent, and it comes in a convenient case for easy travel. Extra pack for the glove compartment, perhaps?
Rid Mattress of Dust Mites With Clove Oil
Organic Dust Mite Spray, $15, Amazon
Dust Mites live just about everywhere. To avoid being ultra-gross, all I’ll say is that they feed on your dead skin (on second thought, still ew), and that’s why your mattress is one of their favorite habitats. This organic dust mite spray gets rid of them using an all-natural blend of essential oils and alcohol, and because there aren’t any harmful chemicals, you can feel fine about spraying your pillow and then passing out face-first in it. It can also be used on furniture and in cars, and it's especially handy if you’ve got pets.
De-Germ Workout Mats With Witch Hazel
Happiness Organic Yoga Mat Spray, $13, Amazon
If you’re pouring sweat onto something day in and day out, firstly, let me say I respect your dedication. Secondly, you need to disinfect that stuff, girl. This Happiness organic yoga mat spray uses organic essential oils to carefully eliminate bacteria and odor. It’s also gentle on equipment, as well as the environment (can you say BPA-free and recyclable bottle?). Users say it's a great size for easy travel, and it worked on everything from their shoes to their gym bag.
Messy Typer? Suck Crumbs, Dirt, & Debris From Keyboard
Henry The Desktop Vacuum Cleaner, $20, Amazon
Two of my all-time favorite things: Cleanliness and inanimate objects (with derpy faces). This Henry vacuum cleaner is a four-inch companion that sits right on your desk to clean any impromptu messes, crumb-avalanches, or dust orgies. It has two vacuum attachments to get into hard-to-reach places, like your keyboard, and because it's battery operated, you don’t need to worry about tripping over cords.
Cleanly Click With The Naturally Antibacterial Mouse
Bamboo Wireless Mouse, $21, Amazon
Since your fingers touch everything and then touch your mouse, it might as well have an inscription on it that says “Proud Supporter of Flu Season.” This wireless mouse is awesome because, in addition to being sleek and stylish, it’s made out of bamboo, which is naturally antibacterial, antifungal, and odor-resistant. It’s also breathable and non-toxic, so both you and the environment can rest easy knowing that this thing will decompose, no problem.
Sterilize Phone, Watches, Keys, and Jewelry With UV Light
UV Portable Phone Sterilizer, $49, Amazon
I can’t stress how dirty that phone is. Your daily-worn jewelry is also pretty germy, too, as it’s a storehouse for mold and dirt — and so are your keys. This portable sterilizer uses UV light to sanitize anything that’ll fit inside, and it only takes six minutes. In addition to zapping bacteria, it also has a mini charging cable for your phone, and it comes in four awesome colors, so it’ll look stylish sitting right on your dresser.
Purify Bedroom Air With Bamboo & Charcoal
Bamboo Charcoal Bag Air Purifier, $19, Amazon
I know, it’s a broad category, but the air is filled with loads of allergens, bacteria, mold, and odors. This bamboo charcoal bag purifies the air by absorbing all the stuff you don’t want to breathe in, and because it’s non-toxic and chemical-free, you can feel good about putting it anywhere in your house — especially since the linen is so beautifully stitched. Best of all, all you need to do to purify it is place it in the sun for a few hours once a month, and it’s as good as new.
Microfiber Carefully Cleanses All Your Screens
Microfiber Screen Ball Cleaner, $16, Amazon
This screen ball cleaner has two sides — one microfiber side to remove stubborn marks, and another terry cloth side for dust and fingerprints. It can be used on everything from laptops to televisions, and because it’s portable and chemical-free, keeping all of your devices clean and smudge-free becomes a no-brainer. Best of all, when the ball starts to get dirty, simply remove the easy-grip rubber band and put it in the washing machine, so your things stay sanitary long-term.
For Everything Else, Lavender Essential Oil Does the Job
Pelindaba Organic Lavender Cleaner, $11, Amazon
For things that aren’t so nuanced, like doorknobs, railings, switches, pens, and toys, this organic lavender household cleaner is a safe and effective alternative to chemical-filled disinfectants. It’s 100 percent certified organic, and it utilizes the steam from lavender essential oils to create a solution that disinfects and de-germs any area. That being said, it’s so gentle and safe, some people even use it to wash their fruits and vegetables. It won’t leave any streaks or residue, but it will leave an unbelievably refreshing smell all over your space.
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Images: Pixabay (1); Amazon (9)
