8. Smartphones
If you read or watch the news, it’s no surprise that your smart phone is a health risk. Numerous studies link mobile phones to infection transmission—from face to face, and from hands to face. You should never use your phone with dirty hands and you should get in the habit of reducing germ spread by unplugging and wiping down your device using a disinfectant cloth weekly.

9. Makeup & Cosmetic Brushes
Face to mouth to eyes, to lips—makeup brushes sure make the rounds on our faces, picking up all sorts of lovely things like sweat, oils, dead skin, and germs along the route. For instance, numerous studies show that roughly half of all make up brushes and mascara tubes are breeding germs. So be sure to only keep and use makeup for about 6-months maximum, and clean brushes using disinfectant cleaner regularly.

10. Contact Lens Cases
Considering what goes in them goes into your precious eyes, you’d think we’d be more vigilant. However, contact lens cases are optimal breeding grounds for all sorts of nasty bacteria, especially if you’re not prone to cleaning them regularly. To prevent germs and eye infections (i.e., conjunctivitis), empty all fluid, wipe out and soak containers in near-boiling water for 5 minutes once a week, and let dry fully before refilling with clean saline solution.

Emily Lockhart
Emily Lockhart is a weight loss expert who specializes in healthy living. She is dedicated to providing health-conscious individuals with the information they need to make great lifestyle choices that will make them look and feel better. In her spare time, Emily teaches Pilates at a local studio and enjoys activities like hiking, rowing and biking.