The 4 'commonly overlooked' bathroom items that are spreading germs without you knowing

When it comes to keeping your home clean, most people focus their attention on the kitchen. But experts say the bathroom is often just as full of germs, and in some cases, even worse. Toilet handles, sink drains and shower heads usually get a good scrub. But some everyday items are quietly collecting bacteria and spreading it around without you even noticing. From damp towels to dirty toothbrush holders, several bathroom essentials are being used daily without being properly cleaned.

And that could be putting your health at risk. Bathroom and kitchen experts at Plumbworld have now revealed the four worst offenders, and shared exactly how to clean them to stop the spread of harmful bacteria. A Plumbworld spokesperson said: "Bathrooms are often thought of as clean spaces because we associate them with hygiene routines. In reality, they are one of the main breeding grounds for bacteria in the home."

Damp towels and bath mats create the perfect home for bacteria and mould. Experts say bacteria can build up after just three uses, especially if the fabric doesn't dry out properly.

Bath mats are even worse. They're stepped on with wet feet and often left unwashed for weeks.

"Always wash towels every three to four uses and bath mats weekly," the experts at Plumbworld said. "And make sure they dry completely before using them again."

Cleaning tip: Wash them on a 60C cycle with detergent, and add a cup of white vinegar in the rinse to kill bacteria and remove musty smells.

Your toothbrush holder is probably one of the dirtiest items in the entire house. Studies have shown it's the third most germ-contaminated household item, mainly because it stays wet and is often splashed during brushing.

That means bacteria like E. coli and staphylococcus can grow and make their way back onto your toothbrush.

"Rinse the holder with hot water daily and disinfect it at least once a week," the experts at Plumbworld said. "And try to keep toothbrushes standing upright and not touching each other."

Cleaning tip: Soak the holder in hot water mixed with antibacterial mouthwash or run it through the dishwasher weekly.

Soap scum, steam, and damp air make shower curtains a breeding ground for mould and mildew. And once that starts, spores can spread through the air and settle on other surfaces.

The experts at Plumbworld said: "Over 25% of shower curtains contain detectable mould spores. Fabric curtains should be washed monthly and replaced if stains won't come out."

Cleaning tip: Machine wash fabric curtains with detergent and baking soda. Scrub plastic liners with vinegar, rinse well, and hang dry.

Taps are touched constantly, often with dirty or wet hands, and rarely get cleaned properly. Experts say they can contain thousands of bacteria per square inch, especially in busy households.

The experts at Plumbworld said: "Wipe down taps and handles daily. It's even more important during flu season or if someone at home is ill."

Cleaning tip: Use diluted white vinegar or disinfectant with a microfibre cloth. Let vinegar sit for 10 minutes on limescale before wiping.