We all know the basics of hygiene — brushing teeth, washing hands, and showering — but there’s definitely more to it than that.
These lesser-discussed practices can improve your health, comfort, and even your relationships. After all, no one wants to be around someone who’s smelly, unkempt, or even full of cold and flu all the time. These practices are just as important as the more commonly discussed ones, though they’re not done as regularly.
1. Cleaning your phone regularly
Your phone is a magnet for bacteria, and you touch it constantly. Most people don’t realise how dirty it can get. Wiping it down with a sanitising cloth daily helps reduce germs that transfer to your face and hands. Keeping your phone clean means keeping yourself healthier.
2. Washing reusable water bottles
Reusable bottles are great for the environment, but they can become breeding grounds for bacteria if not cleaned properly. Many people just rinse them out, but a thorough wash with soap and hot water is necessary. Regular cleaning prevents mould, odours, and harmful germs from developing.
3. Scrubbing behind your ears
This often-forgotten spot can trap sweat, dirt, and oil, leading to unpleasant odours. A quick rinse isn’t enough; you need to scrub behind your ears with soap and water. Paying attention to this area helps keep you feeling fresh and prevents build-up.
4. Cleaning your belly button
Your belly button can trap dirt, sweat, and dead skin, which can lead to odour or even infections. Use a damp cloth or a cotton swab with mild soap to clean it regularly. Keeping this little area clean is easy to overlook but makes a big difference.
5. Replacing your loofah or flannel often
Loofahs and flannels can harbour bacteria and mould if they stay wet for too long. Many people use them for months without realising they should be replaced or cleaned weekly. Swap them out regularly or disinfect them by soaking in a bleach solution to avoid spreading bacteria.
6. Disinfecting your toothbrush holder
Your toothbrush holder is one of the dirtiest spots in your bathroom. Water and toothpaste residue collect there, creating a moist environment perfect for bacteria. Clean it with soap or disinfectant weekly to avoid contamination. It’s an easy step that supports better oral hygiene.
7. Changing your pillowcases often
Pillowcases collect oil, sweat, dead skin cells, and hair products. If you don’t change them regularly, you’re putting your face on a build-up of bacteria each night. Aim to swap pillowcases at least once a week — more often if you have acne-prone skin or oily hair.
8. Cleaning your ears properly
Jamming cotton swabs into your ears can push wax further in and damage your eardrum. Instead, clean the outer part of your ears gently with a flannel. For excessive wax, see a professional. Proper ear hygiene keeps your hearing clear and prevents infections.
9. Sanitising your makeup brushes
Dirty makeup brushes can spread bacteria and cause breakouts or infections. Many people forget to clean them, but they should be washed weekly with gentle soap or a brush cleaner. Clean brushes mean better skin and longer-lasting makeup tools.
10. Washing your hands after touching public surfaces
We touch doorknobs, railings, and lift buttons daily, but not everyone remembers to wash their hands afterward. These surfaces are loaded with germs. Make it a habit to wash or sanitise your hands after touching shared items, especially before eating or touching your face.
11. Regularly washing hats and caps
Hats soak up sweat, oil, and dirt from your hair and scalp. If they’re not washed regularly, they can start to smell and even contribute to scalp irritation. Check the care label and wash your hats to keep them fresh and clean. A clean hat means a clean head.
12. Cleaning your nail care tools
Nail clippers, files, and cuticle pushers can collect bacteria and fungi if not cleaned. Wipe them with rubbing alcohol after each use, or wash them with warm, soapy water. Keeping your nail tools clean helps prevent infections and keeps your hands and feet healthier.
13. Washing your feet thoroughly
A quick rinse in the shower isn’t enough — your feet need a proper scrub to remove sweat, dead skin, and bacteria. Pay attention to the spaces between your toes, and dry them well afterward. Good foot hygiene helps prevent odours, athlete’s foot, and fungal infections.
14. Disinfecting your gym gear
Gym equipment, yoga mats, and resistance bands can harbour bacteria, especially when damp with sweat. Wipe them down with disinfectant after each use. Keeping your gear clean protects you from germs and keeps your workouts healthy and safe.
