If you are getting ready for guests for the holidays, here are the top spots that you want to pay close attention.

Your home may appear clean, but it harbors hidden hotspots teeming with harmful bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Being aware of the germiest locations can help you target cleaning to create a healthier home.

Microbiologists reveal that one of the top offenders is the kitchen sink, especially the damp sponge or dishrag used to clean dishes. Food particles get trapped and allow bacteria like Salmonella and E.coli to multiply rapidly in the warm, moist environment. Disinfect the sink regularly and replace sponges weekly to control germs. My daughter-in-law tipped me off to Norwex cloths that have silver threads, which make them antimicrobial. I'm not a sponge person, but if you are then I would recommend tossing the used one weekly.

The bathroom is another germ haven. Toilet handles, faucet handles, and doorknobs are prime areas to spread nasty microbes from person to person. Make sure to scrub these surfaces frequently. Toilet bowls themselves also harbor germs, so clean them with a toilet bowl cleaner weekly. The bathroom floor around the toilet is also a hotspot, contaminated by bacteria that spray out from flushing. Mop and disinfect this area at least once a week. Get rid of the toilet toupee and wash the rug weekly. I would reconsider having soft surfaces like that crocheted doll that your grandma made to hide the TP. Think about the germs that are getting transferred to your reading material.

Do you remember this Seinfeld Episode? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NygOFsExGMU "Book in the Bathroom"

"I don't read in the bathroom."