The Forgotten Germ Zone: Clean Your Door Handles Weekly

When was the last time you cleaned your door handles?

If you can’t remember, you’re not alone—but you’re also not off the hook. Door handles are one of the most frequently touched surfaces in any home or office, and yet they’re often overlooked in regular cleaning routines. Think about it: everyone touches them, often multiple times a day, and rarely with clean hands.

Here’s why giving your door handles a weekly clean should be a non-negotiable part of your cleaning checklist:

🚪 Why Door Handles Are Germ Hotspots

Door handles are high-traffic contact points. They collect:

• Germs from hands after using the bathroom
• Residue from food prep
• Bacteria from coughs, sneezes, and everyday grime

In fact, studies have found that door handles can harbor more bacteria than some toilet seats!

🧼 The Case for Weekly Cleaning

A once-a-week clean is the sweet spot. It’s frequent enough to keep bacteria from building up, but not so often that it feels like a chore.

Set a reminder each week—maybe during your regular cleaning day—to quickly disinfect door handles around the house:

• Front and back doors
• Bathroom doors
• Bedroom doors
• Fridge handles and cabinet pulls (while you’re at it!)

🧽 How to Clean Them Properly

You don’t need fancy equipment—just a few household basics:

You’ll need:

• Disinfectant spray or wipes (or a vinegar-water mix for a natural option)
• Microfiber cloth

Steps:

1. Spray the disinfectant directly on the handle or wipe it down thoroughly.
2. Let the solution sit for a minute (check the label for dwell time).
3. Wipe clean with a dry cloth.

Pro tip: Don’t forget to clean both sides of the handle and any surrounding area people might touch.

🛑 Don't Forget These Extra Germ Zones

While you’re at it, give a quick wipe to other forgotten touchpoints:

• Light switches
• Remote controls
• Appliance handles
• Car door handles

✅ Final Thoughts

Cleaning your door handles weekly takes less than 10 minutes but can dramatically reduce the spread of germs in your home. In high-traffic areas or during cold and flu season, consider upping it to twice a week.

It’s a small habit with a big payoff—for your health and your peace of mind.