**15 Hygiene Tips That Are Often Overlooked**

Maintaining good hygiene goes beyond the basics of daily washing and grooming. There are several lesser-known hygiene tips that can greatly enhance your overall cleanliness and well-being. Whether you're looking to improve personal care routines or discover new practices, here are 15 hygiene secrets that are often overlooked:

### 1. **Clean Your Ears Properly**

Many people overlook the importance of cleaning their ears effectively. Use a soft cloth or cotton swab to gently clean the outer ear, avoiding inserting anything into the ear canal to prevent damage.

### 2. **Change Your Towels Regularly**

Towels can harbor bacteria and fungi if not changed regularly. Aim to replace your bath towels every few days and wash them in hot water to ensure cleanliness.

### 3. **Care for Your Feet**

Pay attention to foot hygiene by washing them daily, especially between toes. Use foot powder to keep them dry and wear clean socks made of breathable materials to prevent odor and infections.

### 4. **Clean Your Hairbrushes and Combs**

Hairbrushes and combs accumulate hair, oils, and debris over time. Clean them weekly by removing hair strands and soaking them in warm water with a mild shampoo or vinegar solution.

### 5. **Maintain Oral Hygiene Beyond Brushing**

In addition to brushing your teeth twice daily, don't forget to clean your tongue with a tongue scraper or your toothbrush's backside. This helps remove bacteria and prevent bad breath.

### 6. **Wash Your Hands Properly**

Proper handwashing involves scrubbing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, ensuring you clean between fingers and under nails. Use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol when soap and water aren't available.

### 7. **Clean Your Smartphone**

Smartphones harbor bacteria due to frequent handling. Regularly wipe down your phone with disinfectant wipes to reduce germ buildup, especially after using it in public places.

### 8. **Replace Your Toothbrush Regularly**

Toothbrushes should be replaced every 3 to 4 months or sooner if bristles become frayed. Using an old toothbrush can be ineffective and may harbor bacteria.

### 9. **Care for Your Eyelids**

Gently clean your eyelids daily with a mild cleanser or baby shampoo to remove oil, debris, and bacteria that can lead to eye infections.

### 10. **Wash Your Reusable Water Bottle**

Reusable water bottles should be washed thoroughly with soap and hot water daily to prevent bacterial growth. Use a bottle brush to clean hard-to-reach areas.

### 11. **Clean Your Makeup Brushes**

Dirty makeup brushes can harbor bacteria and lead to skin breakouts. Clean them weekly with a gentle shampoo or brush cleaner and allow them to air dry completely.

### 12. **Shower After Exercise**

Sweat left on the skin after exercise can lead to body odor and skin irritation. Shower promptly after working out and change into clean clothes to maintain freshness.

### 13. **Don't Forget Your Fingernails**

Keep fingernails trimmed and clean to prevent dirt and bacteria from accumulating underneath. Use a nail brush and gentle soap to clean them regularly.

### 14. **Clean Your Bedding Regularly**

Sheets, pillowcases, and blankets should be washed weekly in hot water to remove sweat, oils, and allergens. This helps prevent skin irritation and promotes better sleep hygiene.

### 15. **Practice Proper Toilet Hygiene**

Use toilet paper to wipe thoroughly after using the restroom, and consider using moist wipes for additional cleanliness. Wash your hands with soap and water afterward to prevent the spread of germs.

Incorporating these often-overlooked hygiene tips into your daily routine can significantly improve your cleanliness, health, and overall well-being.
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