**15 Hygiene Secrets That Are Often Overlooked**

Maintaining good hygiene goes beyond the basics of washing hands and brushing teeth. There are several lesser-known hygiene practices that can significantly impact your overall cleanliness and health. Here are 15 hygiene secrets that deserve more attention:

**1. Nail Care Beyond Clipping**
Proper nail care includes cleaning under the nails regularly to remove dirt and bacteria that can accumulate. Use a nail brush and gentle soap to keep nails clean and prevent infections.

**2. Cleaning Your Phone**
Your smartphone harbors more bacteria than you might think. Regularly clean your phone screen and case with a disinfectant wipe to reduce the spread of germs.

**3. Washing Reusable Grocery Bags**
Reusable grocery bags are eco-friendly, but they can harbor bacteria from food items. Wash them regularly according to manufacturer instructions to prevent contamination.

**4. Washing Hats and Headgear**
Hats, beanies, and other headgear accumulate sweat, oil, and bacteria over time. Wash them regularly, especially if you wear them frequently.

**5. Washing Water Bottles**
Reusable water bottles are convenient, but they can become breeding grounds for bacteria. Clean them daily with hot, soapy water or use a bottle brush for thorough cleaning.

**6. Cleaning Behind Your Ears**
The area behind your ears can collect sweat, oil, and dead skin cells. Gently clean this area during your shower routine to maintain hygiene.

**7. Washing Your Pillowcases**
Pillowcases collect sweat, oils, and dirt from your skin and hair. Wash them weekly to prevent acne breakouts and skin irritation.

**8. Cleaning Your Earphones or Headphones**
Earphones and headphones come into contact with earwax and skin oils. Wipe them down regularly with a disinfectant wipe to keep them clean.

**9. Cleaning Your Keyboard and Mouse**
Computer keyboards and mice can harbor bacteria and viruses. Clean them regularly with a disinfectant wipe or compressed air to remove dirt and germs.

**10. Washing Makeup Brushes and Sponges**
Makeup brushes and sponges accumulate makeup residue, oils, and bacteria. Wash them weekly with gentle soap and water to prevent breakouts and infections.

**11. Cleaning Your Remote Control**
Remote controls are frequently touched but often overlooked when cleaning. Wipe them down regularly with a disinfectant wipe to reduce the spread of germs.

**12. Washing Your Towels**
Towels can harbor bacteria and mildew if not washed regularly. Wash bath towels after three uses and hand towels after one use to maintain hygiene.

**13. Cleaning Your Toothbrush Holder**
Toothbrush holders can accumulate moisture and bacteria. Clean them weekly by washing with hot, soapy water or placing them in the dishwasher.

**14. Washing Your Shower Curtain**
Shower curtains can develop mold and mildew due to constant exposure to moisture. Wash them monthly or as recommended by the manufacturer.

**15. Washing Your Washing Machine**
Your washing machine cleans your clothes but can also accumulate dirt, detergent residue, and bacteria. Clean it monthly by running a hot cycle with vinegar or a washing machine cleaner.

Incorporating these often-overlooked hygiene practices into your daily routine can help you maintain cleanliness, prevent infections, and promote overall health. By paying attention to these small details, you can elevate your hygiene standards and feel confident in your cleanliness.
#selfcare