KEEP IT CLEAN

***FIVE PLACES GERMS ARE HIDING***

Germs are everywhere. They're at home, in the office, and even in your car. About 99 percent of them are harmless, but that other one percent is downright scary.

Here are five surprising spots where germs like to linger, along with tips on how to get rid of them . . .

#1.) THE KITCHEN FAUCET. The metal screen at the end of the faucet reduces water flow, which is good for the environment. But it's bad for your health. Running water keeps the screen moist, so it's an ideal spot for bacteria to grow.

--TO KEEP IT CLEAN . . . Remove the screen once a week and soak it in diluted bleach. Most faucets simply unscrew, and the screen should pop right out. Once you replace it, let the water run for a few minutes before using it again.

#2.) YOUR VACUUM CLEANER. A recent study found that 13 percent of vacuum cleaners test positive for E. coli bacteria, which means you could be spreading it around your house every time you clean up.

--TO KEEP IT CLEAN . . . Change your vacuum bag frequently. You can even buy bags with antibacterial linings. And clean all the attachments with antibacterial soap and hot water every now and then.

#3.) YOUR CAR'S DASHBOARD. In tests of 100 cars across the country, the dashboard was found to be the second-most-common spot for bacteria and mold to gather. Food spills were number one. --Air from your vents carries mold spores and bacteria, and it often flows over the dashboard. Since that spot receives the most sun, it's a perfect place for bacteria to grow.

--TO KEEP IT CLEAN . . . Regularly clean your dashboard with disinfecting wipes.

#4.) SOAP DISPENSERS. A recent study found that 25 percent of liquid soap dispensers in public restrooms are contaminated with FECAL BACTERIA. It's because most of those dispensers are never cleaned. --And since a constant stream of people touch them right after they use the bathroom, they can get really gross.

--TO STAY CLEAN . . . You should still use the soap. But be sure to scrub your hands thoroughly for at least 15 to 20 seconds. And use hot water.

#5.) RESTAURANT KETCHUP BOTTLES. Most people don't wash their hands before eating, so even though you do, the guy who picked up the ketchup bottle before you could have contaminated it with who-knows-what.

--TO STAY CLEAN . . . Carry hand sanitizer with you. Squirt some on your hands and then rub down the bottle. Holding a bottle with a napkin won't do any good. Since the napkin is porous, microorganisms can pass right through.(Prevention Magazine)