由 home-healthhaven 
I visited an office recently and noticed an interesting machine in the lobby that all visitors had to use before entering. Upon closer inspection, it turned out to be a large hand sanitizer dispenser that released disinfectant gel. Although I didn’t ask, I bet the office had a pretty low sickness rate.
So, what are the dirtiest things in an office? There are essentially two categories: things you can touch and things you can’t. We’ll focus on the items you can touch here. While you can touch almost anything or anyone in the office, this article isn’t about personal health and hygiene.
Many infections can spread through germs found on common objects. One of the most stubborn germs that can survive on surfaces for long periods is MRSA. These germs can infect people without them realizing it. Let’s check out the 10 dirtiest things in the office.
10. Vending Machine Buttons
Have you ever noticed how the edges of vending machine buttons are greasy while the center is clean? That’s because our fingers pick up the dirt from the middle.
9. Water Fountain Buttons
Surprisingly, drinking fountains are still common in public places like hospitals. Their push-buttons can get visibly dirty, posing a risk of transferring germs to users as they drink.
8. Computer Keyboards
This one might not shock you. Keyboards can harbor a ridiculous amount of germs and grime. If you touch your eyes or nose or eat while typing, you could get sick without knowing how.
7. Microwave and Refrigerator Handles
Few people think to clean the handles of microwaves and refrigerators, but almost everyone uses them. The grease on these handles can house bacteria. Since people use these appliances while eating, they might get sick and wrongly blame the food.
6. Water Faucets
Bathroom or break-room faucets are hotspots for MRSA and other germs. People wash their hands thinking they’re getting clean, but rarely do they wash the tap handles. You might just pick up germs right after washing your hands when you turn off the tap.
5. Elevator Buttons
If your office is in a commercial building with an elevator, those buttons are another breeding ground for germs.
4. Shared Phones
If the telephone at your office is shared, it’s wise to use gloves and a mask. The dialing buttons and handset can accumulate germs, leading to potential infections.
3. Office Magazines
You probably never considered an office magazine as a germ transmitter. Magazines in the lobby are touched by numerous hands, making them a medium for spreading infections.
2. Doormats and Rugs
Though people don’t usually touch carpets and doormats, they can be major sources of dirt and germs that even pollute the office air. Microscopic particles from carpets can be inhaled and cause respiratory issues like asthma.
1. Toilet Seats
A toilet seat’s shiny white surface can harbor around 300 bacteria per square inch. It’s best to avoid touching it with your bare hands.