Expert reveals why you MUST change your ‘outside' clothes as soon as you get home & the bad habit that's making you ill

The Sun

18-07-2025

WE'D all like to think that we take great pride in our clean home.
But while many of regularly scrub the loo and hoover the floor once a week, there could be common daily habits that are undoing your hard work in seconds - and they spread germs right under your nose.
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Perhaps unsurprisingly, people need to think about anything that's been in contact with places where germs are.
Some of these, such as the soles of your shoes and trainers, or hands after playing with a friendly pooch, are more obvious.
However, there are plenty more unexpected ways harmful bacteria could be making their way in, Kim Hardie, professor in bacterial pathogenesis at Nottingham University, and Good Housekeeping household advice expert, Ella Duggan, revealed.
Change into new clothes
By now, most of us should - hopefully - be aware that wearing your outdoor shoes and boots in the living room and elsewhere is never a good idea.
But the same thing goes for the clothing you've worn to the office or when running errands, the gurus told the publication.
''The habit that always grosses me out personally is sitting on (or even getting into) your bed wearing the clothes you just sat on public transport in,'' said Ella.
''The amount of germs your clothes can pick up, carry and transfer is shocking.
''Additionally, not changing when you get home can inflame allergies such as hay fever, by bringing in pollen or dander from the outside world.''
Don't chuck your suitcase on the bed
With holiday season now in full force, millions of Brits will be jetting off to somewhere nice and sunny - which also means packing the suitcase.
While plonking the luggage on your bed may seem harmless, it might be time to rethink that, the experts warned.
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After being chucked on the plane, dragged around and in contact with thousands of bags, suitcases are a notorious spreader of bed bugs, explained Professor Hardie.
To keep your home pristine and germ-free, always give the luggage a good clean between trips.
Clean your handbags
Similarly, our handbags come with us pretty much everywhere, especially during the busy commute to and from work or when popping to the grocery store after picking the kids up from school.
Your bag is essentially like the soles of your shoes - it sits on the floor of the bus or train or a dirty seat on public transport.
Then, it finds itself on the kitchen counter where dinner is getting prepared - or your sofa where you're catching up on all the latest drama on Love Island.
''I think people underestimate or simply forget how dirty our bags are, but it doesn't take an expert to realise how much bacteria and grime lurks on public transport,'' said Ella. '
'I try to wipe mine down with a leather safe, anti-bacterial wipe most days.''
10 Grossest Areas People Forget to Clean
By Danielle Mason, who has 20 years of experience
Under and Behind the Fridge
Crumbs, dust, and spills accumulate over time, attracting pests and creating bad odours.
Shower Curtain & Liner
These collect mildew and soap scum but are often overlooked. Wash or replace them regularly to keep your bathroom fresh.
Toothbrush Holder
One of the germiest places in the bathroom, filled with bacteria and toothpaste residue. Rinse and disinfect it weekly.
Dishwasher Filter
Food particles and grease build up, leading to unpleasant smells and reduced efficiency. Remove and clean the filter every few weeks.
Washing Machine Seal
The rubber gasket traps mould, mildew, and detergent buildup. Wipe it down with white vinegar and leave the door open to air dry.
Light Switches and Remote Controls
Touched daily but rarely cleaned, making them germ hotspots. Wipe them down with disinfectant regularly.
Under the Sofa Cushions
Crumbs, dust, and even lost items hide in the cracks. Remove the cushions and vacuum thoroughly.
Kitchen Sink & Plughole
Food residue builds up, causing bad odours. Pour boiling water, bicarbonate of soda, and vinegar down the drain to freshen it.
Ceiling Fans
Dust piles up on the blades and gets redistributed into the air when turned on. Use a microfibre cloth or pillowcase to clean them easily.
Doormats
They trap dirt and bacteria from shoes but are rarely washed or vacuumed. Shake them out weekly and deep clean them every month.
Head to her Instagram pages for more cleaning information @ missmasoncleaning @ daniellemasonuk
Don't forget about your phone
Another big enemy is your phone - a daily essential for billions across the world.
But when it comes to spreading germs, phones are one of the worst offenders, Professor Hardie warned.
In fact, studies ''have shown that smartphones carry significantly more bacteria than toilet seats, so keep that in mind next time you're cuddled up in bed with yours'', Ella added.
Be aware of the dangers when sharing towels
A busy family bathroom in the early morning when everyone is rushing to get out of the house? All of us have been there.
But don't go reaching to the nearest towel you can find.
Sharing towels could risk skin infections, warned Professor Hardie.
Some of these include athlete's foot, verrucas, acne and cold sores, and even respiratory infections, colds, flu and eye infections can be transmitted this way.