In the Office: Avoid Touching These Places to Keep Clear of Germs and Other Nasties

It is disturbing to know that the surface of a typical office desk has more germs and bacteria than a toilet seat urrrgh!!!

While offices may seem clean, they can be hotspots for germs and bacteria. With so many people sharing the same space, certain surfaces become breeding grounds for illness-causing microbes. To stay healthy, it’s best to avoid touching these common office germ magnets whenever possible.

1. Door Handles

Door handles, especially in restrooms and break rooms, are touched by countless people throughout the day. Studies show they can harbor flu viruses, E. coli, and other harmful bacteria. Use a paper towel or your elbow to open doors when possible.

2. Elevator Buttons

Elevator buttons are touched by almost everyone in the building, making them a prime spot for germs. If you can, use a knuckle instead of your fingertip to press buttons, or carry hand sanitizer for quick cleaning afterward.

3. Office Kitchen Sponge/Sink

The communal kitchen sponge is one of the dirtiest items in an office. It stays damp, collecting bacteria from dirty dishes and hands. Avoid touching it directly—opt for disposable paper towels or bring your own sponge.

4. Shared Keyboards & Phones

If you share computers or office phones, be cautious. Keyboards can have more bacteria than a toilet seat! Wipe them down with disinfectant wipes before use, and avoid touching your face afterward.

5. Water Cooler or Coffee Machine Handles

The handles on water coolers and coffee machines are frequently touched but rarely cleaned. Use a tissue or sleeve to operate them, or sanitize your hands after use.

6. Office Printer & Copier Buttons

Printers and copiers are high-touch surfaces that rarely get disinfected. Since multiple people use them daily, try to minimize direct contact or clean your hands afterward.

7. Break Room Fridge Handle

The office fridge is a hotspot for germs, especially if food spills go uncleaned. Open it with a paper towel or sanitize your hands after touching the handle.

8. Handrails on Stairs

Stair railings are touched by many people and often overlooked during cleaning. If you need to use them, wash or sanitize your hands afterward.

Staying Germ-Free at Work

While you can’t avoid every germ, being mindful of high-touch surfaces can reduce your risk of getting sick. Keep hand sanitizer at your desk, wash your hands frequently, and disinfect shared items before use. A few small precautions can go a long way in keeping you healthy at work!

By avoiding these germy spots, you’ll lower your chances of catching office-borne illnesses and stay productive all year round. Stay clean, stay healthy!