Kitchen sponges and sinks harbor more germs than toilets, microbiologists say

Microbiologists say the dirtiest household items are in the kitchen, not the bathroom, with sponges, sinks, and cutting boards harboring harmful germs that can cause food-borne illness. A 2011 study found coliform bacteria on over 75 percent of sponges and 45 percent of sinks. Cutting boards risk cross-contamination from raw meat. Fridges, toothbrushes, and bedsheets also harbor microbes requiring regular cleaning. However, most microbes are harmless, and overcleaning can fuel antimicrobial resistance. Research links excessive disinfectant use to increased allergies and higher childhood obesity risks, suggesting coexistence with germs is healthier.