Living in a clean home is hygienic and makes people feel mentally better. However, some household items are particularly vulnerable to the build-up of bacteria, which is not always easy to see.

This is common in spaces where you prepare or consume food, like the living area and kitchen.

Despite many people not being aware of these items, experts have come to the rescue.

For those who don't follow these simple techniques, it can result in illness and time off work.

Joshua Houston, a property expert at Household Quotes, revealed five household items unknowingly vulnerable to harmful bacteria.

Kitchen sponge

When it comes to washing up, individuals have to use a sponge to ensure the dishes and utensils are nice and clean.

However, this leads to nasty bacteria being transmitted to the sponge which will be used on every single piece of equipment.

So change your sponge regularly, ideally every week. It should also be rinsed out after every use to make sure it doesn’t become nasty.

TV remote

Surprisingly, television remotes are among the dirtiest items in the home. Studies have shown that over time, a remote can contain fifteen times as much bacteria as the average toilet seat.

This is due to people eating while watching TV and not regularly washing their hands. Bacteria builds up over time, leading to mould.

To clean your remote, use alcohol wipes, but ensure the batteries are removed first to avoid danger.

Smartphone/tablet

Smartphone screens are a common way for bacteria to get into the home. When someone is in public, they will touch buttons, rails, and doors while also using their phone.

It’s estimated that around a third of people never clean their screens, so the risk of transference is great.

Like with a TV remote, they can use alcohol wipes to clean the phone; just make sure it is turned off.