Where Are the Bathroom Germs? You’ll Be Surprised

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Where Are the Bathroom Germs? You’ll Be Surprised

posted by Annie B. Bond Dec 22, 2000 5:23 pm

filed under: Healthy Home, Non-Toxic Cleaning

Where Are the Bathroom Germs? You’ll Be Surprised

4 comments

By Annie B. Bond

This one will surprise you as much as it did me: Do you know where the most germs are in your bathroom? Not where you’re thinking, but in the sink drain! What to do about them?

Researchers from Tufts New England Medical Center now think that disinfectants are not effective in the first place, and that they simply lead to the development of more resistant strains of bacteria. But there is a great non-toxic and very effective way to rid your bathroom (or any room) of germs.

Here’s how to make a sweet-smelling antibacterial spray, and an easiest-ever tip for dealing with those drain germs–right here:

1. Pour a cup or two of straight vinegar down your drains. Ordinary vinegar has a 80-99% kill rate for bacteria and viruses. Do this once or twice a week and you’re set.

2. Make this sweet-smelling antibacterial spray to use on toilet seats, countertops, doorknobs, cutting boards–anywhere germs like to lurk. Lavender is more antiseptic than phenol, which is the industry standard.

INGREDIENTS
1 cup water
1 teaspoon pure essential oil of lavender

Place water in a spray bottle, add lavender oil and shake vigorously to mix. Spray on surfaces and allow to stand at least 15 minutes, or don’t rinse at all.

Makes one cup of spray. Keeps indefinitely.

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Josephine Fenech says
Jan 8, 2009 8:18 AM

Thanks Annie for your interesting tips.I love the smell of lavender too.

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Tiara Lewis says
Oct 2, 2007 2:49 PM

its somthin how u have all these germs in your house and we have stuff right at home to kill them but dont think it will work.

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Victoria Hoover says
Aug 16, 2007 3:33 PM

Are there other essential oils that have similar antiseptic properties, which could be used by people who have serious bad reactions to lavender?

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Beckie Shoff says
May 8, 2007 8:43 PM

So, lavender oil and water will really disinfect the toilet? That's it?

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Disclaimer: Care2.com does not warrant and shall have no liability for information provided in this newsletter or on Care2.com. Each individual person, fabric, or material may react differently to a particular suggested use. It is recommended that before you begin to use any formula, you read the directions carefully and test it first. Should you have any health care-related questions or concerns, please call or see your physician or other health care provider.

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