These 6 Items Might Be Making You Sick—Here's How to Clean Them

Even the cleanest-looking homes can harbor hidden germs, allergens, and mold—potentially triggering illness without you realizing it. The good news is that a few simple cleaning habits can make a big difference in your health. 

“Regularly cleaning surfaces in your home helps prevent the spread of germs that can make you sick—this is generally done with soap, water, and scrubbing,” says Madeline DiLorenzo, MD, at NYU Langone Health.

Here are six areas you should clean more often to keep your space (and yourself) feeling good.

1. Kitchen Counters

Hopefully, you’re already cleaning your kitchen counters regularly—but you might not be cleaning them often enough. Kitchen counters are among the most frequently touched and contaminated surfaces in the home. Raw meat, produce, and other food prep can leave behind bacteria that may spread to other areas. DiLorenzo recommends wiping down your counters both before and after preparing meals.

2. Washing Machines

While your washing machine cleans clothes, it can also be a breeding ground for mold—especially in the rubber gasket or filter, where water tends to collect. “Deep cleaning your washing machine, as well as your dishwasher, every one to two months can help ward off mold and mildew,” DiLorenzo says. Plus, don’t forget to leave the door open between loads to help the interior dry.

3. Humidifiers

Humidifiers make dry air more comfortable, but they can also spread unwanted particles if not used correctly. Using tap water in ultrasonic humidifiers (the cool-mist type) is a significant source of indoor pollution, according to Andy Fox, an indoor air-quality specialist at 3M. 

“The dissolved minerals in the tap water are sent into the air, leaving tiny mineral crystals that float around in the air and coat your home’s surfaces (and your filter) in a fine white dust,” Fox says. To prevent this, always use distilled water and follow the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions.

4. Bathroom Sinks and Fixtures

Moisture pooling around bathroom sinks, tubs, and showers creates the perfect environment for mold and mildew. “Use standard household cleaning products to thoroughly clean sinks, bathtubs, showers, and toilets,” DiLorenzo says. “It is also important to mop up any areas where water may pool (behind sink faucets, for example) to prevent the development of mold.”

5. Refrigerators

A clean fridge isn’t just about appearances—it’s also about food safety. Bacteria can grow on spills, spoiled food, and hidden crumbs. “Clean the inside of the refrigerator weekly with a standard household cleaning product and be sure to throw out spoiled food promptly,” DiLorenzo says.

6. HVAC Air Filters

Your HVAC system plays a huge role in your home’s air quality, and a dirty filter can circulate dust, pollen, and other irritants. To prevent this, change the filter at least as often as the manufacturer recommends—typically every three months for 1-inch-thick filters, Fox says. 

”A fresh filter typically provides the best filtration and maximizes the benefit to indoor air quality, and it has the added benefit of being more energy-efficient than a dirty filter,” Fox says.

What About Sanitizing?

For everyday cleaning, soap, water, and a scrub brush are usually sufficient. “Sanitizing or disinfecting is not necessary unless members of your household are sick,” DiLorenzo says. If you do sanitize, clean the surface first—dirt and debris can prevent chemicals from working effectively. Then use a bleach solution or sanitizing spray to reduce germs.