You Should Be Cleaning Your TV Remote More Often Than You Realize

Most of us have cleaning routines that we do like clockwork, hitting all the usual suspects — like the floors, kitchen counters, toilets, etc. — on a regular basis. However, some of the areas and items in your home that you've overlooked might be right under your nose. Or in your hand.

Your TV remote is a bastion of germs. Think about it: One or more people are touching it throughout the day or on a daily basis, depending on your household and TV consumption, and then going on with daily activities without a second thought. TV remotes can be up to 20 times dirtier than toilets, according to a study by sofa and carpet company ScS (via The Mirror). Another study, by the University of Houston, found that TV remotes are the most contaminated spots in hotel rooms (per Infection Control Today).

But don't freak out. There's an easy fix for your dirty remote.

To prevent spreading germs and causing illness, your TV remote should be cleaned on a monthly basis, according to TODAY. It can be a little tricky to do so, since remotes have so many buttons and crevices, but a little patience — and some household supplies — will help get the job done.

First, remove the batteries from the remote. Wipe down all the surfaces with a clean cloth dipped in rubbing alcohol; try not to let excess moisture drip into the remote. Then, take a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to clean all the nooks and crannies, and remove any stuck-on grime with a toothpick. Finally, wipe the remote clean with a lint-free cloth, and replace the batteries.

To keep your remote extra-clean, you can store it in a container, such as a decorative box on your coffee table, and/or wipe it daily with an antibacterial wipe for a quick clean.