Showers. I’m talking about the kind that we take. In the bathroom. Curious, isn’t it? How many of those “potty” rooms in our homes no longer contain an actual bath? So many people have replaced them with nice, big showers. And yet, we continue to call them “bathrooms.” I’ve never heard anyone say, “Excuse me for a moment. I need to go to the shower room.”
Anyway, showering is all a part of good hygiene. We all know that good hygiene is important in our lives. It helps prevent illness, infections, and the spread of harmful bacteria.
The truth is, many people occasionally skip small routines. You know who you are. But health experts warn that repeated poor hygiene habits can lead to problems ranging from skin irritation to serious infections and disease.
The scientists have done the research on this.
Here are some common hygiene mistakes and the risks associated with them.
Irregular brushing or flossing your teeth.
Poor dental hygiene can lead to cavities, gum disease, bad breath, tooth loss, and may also increase the risk of heart disease and diabetes. I brush religiously. For a long time.
Rarely showering or bathing.
Infrequent washing allows bacteria and dead skin cells to build up, increasing the risk of acne, irritation, rashes, infections, and worsening skin conditions. I shower twice a day. Always. Morning and night. I can’t help myself.
Going to bed with makeup on.
Sleeping in makeup can clog pores, cause acne, and increase the risk of eye infections and irritation. I don’t wear makeup. This one is easy for me.
Infrequently washing your bedding.
Dirty sheets and pillowcases can collect bacteria, fungus, and dust mites, potentially leading to skin infections and irritation. I wash ours at least once a week. I love clean sheets.
Not washing bras or underwear regularly.
Dirty undergarments may contribute to yeast infections, urinary tract infections, skin irritation, and rashes. Blech. Mine all go in the laundry every single time.
Sharing toothbrushes, razors, or hairbrushes.
Sharing personal items can spread bacteria, viruses, lice, staph infections, hepatitis, and other illnesses. That’s a big nope for me.
Reusing towels too often.
Damp towels can harbor bacteria and fungus, increasing the risk of skin infections and irritation. I wash my bath towel about every three days.
Reusing unwashed water bottles.
I don’t use them, but many people do. Reusable or disposable bottles that are not cleaned regularly may contain harmful bacteria, including E. coli. Blech.
Not washing produce.
Unwashed fruits and vegetables may carry bacteria, pesticides, and contaminants that can cause food poisoning and illness.
Never washing your hair.
Neglecting hair and scalp hygiene may lead to oil buildup, dandruff, infections, and clogged hair follicles.
Using kitchen sponges for too long
Dirty sponges can spread bacteria such as Salmonella, E. coli, and staph around the kitchen.
When I was in grade school, the nuns used to remind us fairly often that “Cleanliness is next to Godliness.” They told us that keeping ourselves and our surroundings clean reflects qualities that people often associate with being good, disciplined, respectful, or morally upright.
Let’s say a little prayer, then, for all those simple hygiene routines that we all know and should love. Sister Margaret Eugene thanks you.
“””””””””“
“The first wealth is health.” — Ralph Waldo Emerson
“””””””””“
“To keep the body in good health is a duty. Otherwise we shall not be able to keep our mind strong and clear.” — Gautama Buddha
“””””””””“
“Health is a state of complete harmony of the body, mind, and spirit.” — B.K.S. Iyengar
“””””””””
“Take care of your body. It’s the only place you have to live.” — Jim Rohn
“””””””””
