As February continues, the cold and flu season reaches its peak, making it even more important to keep your home clean.
Although it’s impossible to eliminate germs and bacteria entirely due to our constant contact with various surfaces at home—the kitchen tap being one of the most used—it’s essential to remember these spots can harbor germs that spread illness.
With the hustle and bustle involved in cooking and cleaning, you might overlook the germs on kitchen taps, risking the spread of sickness within the family. So, experts have offered some invaluable tips on how to prevent kitchen tap germs from taking hold.
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According to Nancy Emery, a cleaning expert with Tap Warehouse, there’s a specific part of the tap often neglected during cleaning that could be teeming with bacteria.
She said: “The best way to prevent spreading sickness through your home during cold and flu season is to target high-traffic areas and high-use items the most frequently.”
Nancy emphasised the importance of cleaning areas prone to germ buildup, especially highlighting the aerator on kitchen taps as a commonly overlooked spot.
“Be mindful of surfaces and materials that harbour germs, in particular the aerator on your kitchen tap. Many of us will skip this step when cleaning down our kitchens, however it’s one of the places that could harbour the most bacteria and limescale build up, especially in areas of hard water.”
The aerator—found at the nozzle of the tap faucet—is vulnerable to limescale, which can stop water flow and become a haven for bacteria and minerals over time, reports the Express.
To keep germs from spreading in your water, it’s recommended to regularly remove and clean the aerator every few months. A toothbrush, along with a mixture of lemon juice and water, can be used to effectively clean this nozzle.
If limescale remains, continue applying fresh lemon juice until it’s gone. After cleaning, apply a disinfectant spray that’s safe for metal surfaces.
Opt for products labelled as non-abrasive and gentle on finishes such as chrome, stainless steel, or matte black. If you’re using a homemade disinfectant, lemon juice is an excellent choice.
The citric acid in lemons has antibacterial and antiseptic properties, making them effective at killing bacteria. Also, the oils in lemon rinds can help dissolve grease and stains, leaving household items sparkling clean.
After cleaning, it’s crucial to thoroughly dry your tap. Water droplets left on the surface can foster the growth of bacteria, mould, and mildew, especially around the base and handle.
To prevent moisture and germ accumulation, wipe down your tap with a soft cloth after each use.