Comfort in the home environment is essential for proper rest or to have an adequate space for those who work from home. Some basic requirements are simply to maintain a comfortable temperature and to have a clean, fresh environment free of unpleasant odors.
This healthy atmosphere can be achieved through various everyday habits, such as cleaning frequently by dusting the shelves, sweeping and mopping the floor often, or regularly vacuuming the corners that are hardest to reach.
However, cleaning the home is not only based on the habits we follow, but also on leaving aside those we insist on and which have no long-term benefit. Washing up dishes, glasses and cutlery is one of the tasks we least like to do, but what’s more, if we do it badly, it can pose a significant risk to our health.
Why it is dangerous to your health to store glasses upside down
When we wash glasses and kitchen utensils, we want them to be spotless, clean and ready for their next use. However, a common practice may be putting our health at risk without us knowing: leaving glasses upside down after washing them. Although this may seem a logical and effective way to drain water and prevent the accumulation of dust, this habit could be causing problems that compromise hygiene and safety in the home.
When we place a glass upside down, we usually do it on surfaces such as shelves, ledges or dish racks. Although the initial intention is to prevent residual water from remaining inside the glass, this can trigger several problems. Being in direct contact with a flat surface, the inside of the glass is trapped in a closed and humid environment, creating ideal conditions for the development of bacteria, fungi, and mold. In addition, the lack of air circulation makes it difficult for the glass to dry completely.
On the other hand, the surfaces where we place the glasses, even if they appear clean, can contain microorganisms. When placing the glass upside down, the rim, which is the part that comes into contact with our mouth, is exposed to these bacteria, increasing the risk of cross-contamination. In addition, trapped moisture can cause unpleasant odors in glasses, because even if they have been washed correctly, the smell can permeate the material, especially in thin glass or plastic glasses.
Although it may seem insignificant, the accumulation of bacteria or mold in glasses can cause health problems such as gastrointestinal infections, respiratory allergies and cross-contamination diseases. To avoid the dangers associated with storing them upside down, it is best to let the glasses dry completely before storing them, as well as to regularly clean the surfaces on which they rest.
