Everything You Never Wanted to Know About Germs

The most germ-infested spot you (and your kids) touch every day is not at the playground or in your bathroom, but on the average kitchen table. "The kitchen is generally dirtier than the toilet," explains Dr. Tierno. Strange as this seems, it makes sense when you realize that kitchens are full of surfaces that come in contact with pathogens (such as Salmonella or E. coli) found in raw meat, fish, poultry, even vegetables. This means every surface—from food prep areas like countertops, cutting boards and can openers, to serving areas like tabletops and placemats— should be cleaned frequently with soap and water or other household cleansers. Just be sure to look for cleanser packages that use words like "germicide," "antibacterial" or "disinfectant."

The same cleaning logic should be used with any household surface that that touches food. Case in point: highchairs. Especially if your child eats directly from the tray, special care should be taken to clean with soap and water, disinfectants or bleach-based cleansers (with bleach, you'll want to let the tray dry and rinse again).

Rags and sponges also need frequent cleaning with a solution of soap or bleach and water When they're wet, you can even microwave them on high for a couple of minutes to kill germs.