Peoria Standard

Bathrooms can harbor germs beyond the toilet, according to Kaylin Heinz, an infection preventionist nurse at OSF HealthCare. Showers, toothbrushes, soap dispensers, and surfaces are all potential breeding grounds for bacteria and fungi.

Heinz offers advice on maintaining cleanliness in various bathroom areas. She notes that moisture from baths or showers encourages the growth of bacteria and fungi and provides a favorable environment for viruses. Linen items like towels and bathmats are particularly prone to contamination as they often remain wet and are frequently stepped on with dirty shoes.

She warns that cuts on the body, such as those on feet, can introduce bacteria or fungus during a shower, potentially leading to conditions like athlete's foot or staph infections.

Heinz advises cleaning showers from top to bottom to avoid re-cleaning. "When you're cleaning, go from top to bottom. If you start cleaning your tub and then you clean your shower walls, you're going to have to re-clean the tub," she says. She emphasizes removing moisture after showering since it promotes bacterial and fungal growth: "When you're getting out of the shower, think about the moisture that's there. That's where the bacteria and fungus are going to grow, so you're going to want to get rid of that moisture if you can."

Discoloration in showers or tubs should be addressed immediately as it indicates bacterial growth. Scrubbing the area thoroughly and allowing it to dry completely is essential.